12 Sword Art Online Games in Order: Complete SAO Guide 2026
If you’ve ever tried figuring out the Sword Art Online games in order, you know it’s confusing.
If you’ve ever tried figuring out the Sword Art Online games in order, you know it’s confusing. The series jumps between timelines, alternate realities, and side stories that don’t always line up.
I learned that the hard way after starting with Fatal Bullet and ended up completely lost. Since then, I’ve replayed all major SAO games in proper order – except for Japan-only and discontinued titles – and finally understood how each one connects and expands the story.
Here, I’ll show you which titles to play first so you can follow the same path and experience SAO games the right way.
Our Top Picks for Sword Art Online Games
These standout games represent the best of Sword Art Online, notable for offering the most fun and complete experience in terms of story, gameplay, and content. If you want to play the best entries first before committing to all the SAO games in order, go for these three games.
Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization
ACTION RPG
It’s the best game in the lineup when playing the Sword Art Online games in order, with a convincing MMORPG experience and plenty of replay value.
Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet
ACTION RPG
Features a fast-paced third-person shooter gameplay that sets it apart from other Sword Art Online games, along with character customization and lots of content.
Sword Art Online: Last Recollection
ACTION RPG
An action-packed SAO game with a modern and stylish combat system and the largest roster of playable characters in the video game series.
If you want to see where these top picks fall in the complete timeline, continue to the full list below.
12 Sword Art Online Games in Order: For Fans and New Players
Playing the Sword Art Online games in order is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the series since it allows you to see how it has evolved over the years in both gameplay and presentation. Learn more about the series timeline in this organized list.
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment [The True Beginning of Sword Art Online Games in Order]
Our score ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ Genre Action RPG PlayStation Portable Creator/s Aquria, Bandai Namco Entertainment Metacritic N/A A Japan-only title,
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment
was the first console video game released in the series and served as the foundation for its sequel, which expanded its systems and story elements.
Continuing past the events of the anime series, it tells an original story where players remain trapped in the virtual world after clearing Floor 75 of the floating castle Aincrad. You guide Kirito and his allies as they face new dangers on the upper floors.
Why we chose it
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment
features an alternate timeline that allows Kirito’s story to branch beyond the anime and create a new chapter exclusive to the game.
This single-player RPG simulates MMORPG gameplay. You can team up with familiar companions like the female characters Asuna and Leafa to pull off raid-style boss battles with real-time combat and Skill Chains.
Ten weapon types give Kirito plenty of variety, which include fast dual blades and heavy two-handed swords. There’s no shortage of content, either. Dozens of side quests, craftable gear, and skill upgrades will keep you busy for many hours.
My Verdict:
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment
captures what it’s like to experience SAO through a portable RPG. For purists who can read Japanese and prefer the first game in its original version, this PSP exclusive title is the true beginning when playing the Sword Art Online games in order.
★ The True Beginning of Sword Art Online Games in Order PSN Gift Cards What do players say?
Silver_Standard_3693 ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ I like the combat system of infinity moment more. And all the finishing animations are different to hollow fragment 2.
Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment
The Aincrad Expansion
Our score ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ ☆ ★ Genre Action RPG PlayStation Vita, PS4, PC Creator/s Aquria, Bandai Namco Entertainment Metacritic
Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment
is a remake and expansion of
Sword Art Online: Infinity Moment
, with its full content combined with new systems and areas. Set once again in the virtual reality world of Aincrad, it’s a great JRPG that diverges from the Sword Art Online anime timeline and continues Kirito’s adventure across additional floors and the mysterious Hollow Area.
In addition to the first game’s content, it includes new quests, enemies, and equipment, which adds variety and replay value. Later updates further expanded the game with additional regions and higher level caps.
Why we chose it Since it’s not limited to Japanese like the first game,
Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment
serves as a more proper introduction to the video game series for those who want to play the Sword Art Online games in order.
Designed for players who want an extensive single-player RPG, this game offers a lengthy campaign focused on exploration and character progression. Battles happen in real time with a focus on teamwork. You fight alongside AI companions and time your combos to maximize damage.
Between battles, you can strengthen relationships with many SAO characters through dialogue choices and dating events, which adds a personal touch to your journey.
My Verdict:
Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment
refines the first game with improved visuals, a smoother interface, and additional content. The re-release Sword Art Online Re: Hollow Fragment includes even more content in addition to performance upgrades.
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