Sword Art Online - Recommendations

ZetsubouKaiji says...

These shows share almost identical plots. They're both about a large group of MMO players getting trapped inside of the game. Both shows go into the various social structures built by an MMOs player base and they discuss the different play styles that individuals adapt. 

SAO is a bit different because it takes place in the future and the game was already virtual reality when the players gets stuck whereas in Log Horizon the players were playing on their PCs before being transported to the game world. Other than that one difference the shows share a similar style of storytelling as the players try to make sense of their situation all while fighting against the game world.

JoSoFine says...

They both have the same setting: people finding themselfs stuck in a online world. Trying to find a way out and survive.Where Sword Art Online doesnt have magic, Log Horizon does have magic skils.In the world of Log Horizon people do not always look just how they do IRL.If you like one, you are sure too like the other. 

KingArthur13th says...

Both series focus on an RPG player who is trapped in a video game world. The major difference being that there is a lot more diversity in Log Horizon than in SAO but in SAO there is an added touch of "when you die in the game you die in real life." Both series are pretty enjoyable for anyone who loves RPGs or shounen series.

JohnWatchAnime says...

In both anime lots of people get stuck in a MMORPG, not being able to log out. The only difference is that in Log Horizon you'll respawm when you die

Naga says...

With almost identical type of story/setting where bunch of players is stuck inside a MMORPG game, there's no better recommendation. While Log Horizon may be a lot more light hearted that Sword Art Online, it does have a more natural storytelling that will definitely to people unaffiliated with MMO. If you enjoyed one, there’s a good chance you might like the other one.  

prasetio63 says...

The 2 anime story is about people who play VMMORPG (Virtual Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game) and trapped inside the game.

tennis101101 says...

If you liked either one of these animes you would like the other because they are both bassed on a video game. Also in the anime the main characters have become trapped in these video games and can't get out.

bidon says...

Trapped in a rpg game dayum. I cant say more.  why do i have to write 100 words to fill this up. this sentence was enough to decide. 

prebstep says...

very similar premises (trapped inside an RPG). SAO focuses more on the escape from the game, and the adventure that entails. LH takes a lot more strategy into mind, and is more about improving the new world that the characters are finding themselves in.

dras444 says...

They're very similar. Their both inside a videogame and the main character is a heroic male(both great animes)

MisakiUsagi says...

True that both Log Horizon and SAO have the same undertone but their plots are different SAO is about escaping the world while Log Horizon is about living in this world. If you like the MMO plot I recommend these two. 

Xewis says...

I think its pretty Similar to each other because, you have the same feeling in both of them. I dont want to spoil to much so just have fun watching the other when you watched one of them :-)

huiboy says...

Both are good, Sword Art Online has a more distinct plot which is to escape the virtual world. While Log Horizon goes into alot of detail in the game world mechanic and the people seem to be more concerned with the affairs of the game. 

bk202 says...

Some say that log horizon is cheap since it feel like Log Horizon is riding on SAO's wave (popularity of a trapped in video game theme and Log horizon came out a year after SAO) but the .hack series' came out long before SAO and were quite popular (at least popular enough that they made four different ones)

SAO and Log horizon are both able to stand on their own due to their unique take on the issue. SAO changed it to not just one person or 'thing' being trapped in the world, but the entire population - focusing on the entire population, struggling as a whole, to get out. Log horizon did use that idea but took it a different way, leaving them with no hope of escape. Thus the focus of Log horizon is not escape but trying to build a world where players of all levels can live happily.

Both go into the emotional states of the characters after being trapped but Log Horizon also adds in the dynamic of NPC's actually having consciousness (something also touched on in the .hack series, but again Log Horizon takes it to a different level). And yes, both main characters are introverts who are scared of guilds, but they aren’t the same character,  Kirito, from SAO, depends on his individual strength to survive, while Shiroe is more focused on strategy, their characteristics reflect the different goals of the worlds.

sitostick says...

If you like sword art online, you WILL like log horizon!

Both are about being trapped inside of a game, sword art online is more survival based.

Both anime are awesome.

sboy says...

SAO and Log Horizon are the perfect compliments of each other!

Although SAO has more Fanservice than Log Horizon, there is no denying that Log Horizon returns the lack of FS with a very deep and detailed plot!

I highly recoomend any fan of one to watch the other, I guarentee that you will LOVE the other!

Nilana says...

In both of these animes you have players stuck in an MMORPG, like .hack/. The story telling and character development in both is very good. I like the character development in SAO better but it is a bit darker than Log Horizon. In SAO characters die IRL when they die in the game. In Log Horizon they respawn back at the cathedral and lose all of their loot. I feel that Log Horizon has a more strategy and team based way of winning the game where SAO is more about a single character

RinReborn27 says...

Both shows share the same concept, people get trapped in a video game.

But while SAO is more focused on how to get out of this videogame world, Log Horizon is more centered around how to survive in the new world. This makes both shows interesting to watch, because their still very different.

Carcajou says...

TL;DR: If you like the idea of 'trapped in an MMO' Log Horizon is the only one that stays completely true to the idea.

Similar to SAO only in the fact that a MMO is the general location. Where SAO pretty much abandons the day to day mechanics of an MMO and becomes more fantasy/scifi based(you can easily forget it's inside a game), Log Horizon sticks to the premise of being trapped inside the MMO world. Guild politics, interacting with what was once mindless NPCs(now living people, and far more numerous than the adventurers themselves), the concepts of raids, quests, PvP, and how people would react to finding themselves in a game world are all present. Highly recommend.

FinLin says...

They're both about a bunch of people getting stuck inside a game. Although Log Horizon barely had any drama, it does however make more sense than SAO. Both are good in my opinion, though!

LordPadfoot says...

The main differences between SOA and LH are that in the first one, players die in real life if they do die in the game, and they are always trying to escape that world; in the second one death doesn't matter anymore, and the players try tu build up a new living world, a peaceful society, living along with the NPC's < who become more human> and other players. Both are great titles, about people getting trapped in a MMO fantasy game. It's just the problem solving logic that's different. 

Fishy116 says...

When I first watched this anime, I thought, wow! These two are literally extremely similar! If you liked one, you are sure to like the other.

DivineJudgment says...

The shows are very similar because both are about players trapped in a game world. They each have their differences, but are great shows, so you should give it a try. You won't regret it.

kgg1290 says...

The similarities between the SAO and Log Horizon are farily obvious and at the beginning you will think that they are basically the same show. People are trapped in a VRMMORPG and have to struggle to find a way out. While SAO focuses on players actually getting out and dealing with other problems later, Log Horizon focuses on how the trapped players try to make their new home better. Halfway through each show they really become their own and really have some good elements that make them stand apart from each other.

Makane says...

both mmorpgs. both storylines is about a group of people who gets trapped inside a game. the big diffrents from soa and log horizion is that log horizon focuses alot more on the issues about living in a mmorpg world and how to adress problems. were soa's storyline mainly focuses on the relations (love) between the 2 main characters. log horizon focuses on the exploration of the mmorpg world and who to help others.

ShadowKnight23 says...

In my opinion Log horizon is Basicly a Rip off of Sword art online. there are so many things that are different but the whole Story about Ppl being prisoned in the game world is the same . I love both animes and they are Awome!

Shiryuki says...

Both of these anime are plotted to a situation that they are trapped in MMORPG game.                                         

adinaonar says...

Both involve being stuck in an MMORPG. SAO seems to go into the drama and trauma an event like this could have. SAO is much more about survival and action. The thing that makes Log Horizon stand out is that the Non-Player Characters (NPCs) are all sentient and aware. While there is combat in LH, this anime focusses more on group strategy and takes a lot of time explaining the fundementals of MMORPGs.

Febrianne says...

Very close, but same theme with online worlds, I love them both, in different ways, LG is not as much focused on romance as is SAO but more strategy, what ifs, and trying to learn how to make a life there, SAO is more action, romance, and surival, both do it very well, I am slightly leaning more towards LG but both are an awesome story!

lrodry says...

Both are VMMORPG and the players can't log out, but I think they are different. However, my recommendation for watching LH is because the protagonist Shiro as strategist is awesome.

emalvada says...

Both are related to a a RL person trapped in a virtual environment. Waiting for Log Horizon 2 to bring the happy ending that SAO has.

Soltine says...

SAO and LH share the same idea of a community trapped inside a virtual world. Both have solid animation, though SAO may have a slight lead in this. Yet the true shine is the story, one hell bent on saving his "world" and the other adapting to his role as a "savior" figure. Both main char. are the solitary types who have a amazing understanding of the game they are placed in. They both find that community and friendship (love in one case) open the true paths to a "end game". In short if you find your self looking for another "Help i'm in a MMO and i can't get out" program you will find that each bring a unique take on this plot.

RedBullAnime says...

The same argument, i love SAO but i don't see all the episodes of Log Horizon, would watch when i have time, but the firsts episodes i see are in the line of sao

Stateless573 says...

Both SAO and Log Horizon are based where the main character are stuck in a MMORPG.  The key difference is that SAO was Virtual Reality, and Log Horizon was not(until they got trapped)

myleswilson47 says...

If you liked SAO youll like this one. Log's story is going to be longer than SAO's, but it each episode is fulfilling in that it doesnt feel like it is going "slow".

athlon8 says...

both are about an vrmmorpg where the players find themselve unable to logout and must find a way to survive

someoneseth says...

simlar premise. Log horizon is more about the game aspects whereas SAO is more about the character development

YuiYui says...

These shows are just about the same a game with properties of reality, trying to find a way out...this is a really obvious recommendation but it i true that these are both similar in purpose genres etc. The only main difference SAO is more about a harem and Log Horizon is more about action but still this isn't a big difference So if you liked one you should like the other.

Ikaros says...

The premises of these series are similar, yet they have completely different takes on them: Sword Art Online focuses on surviving in a virtual world to escape to the real one, while Log Horizon is more about adjusting to a regular life in a game universe. As a result, Log Horizon is far more lighthearted, and between the battles and adventures it becomes a slice-of-life kind of series. By contrast, Sword Art Online is more dire and intense.

There is also a difference in how characters interact with the plot. SAO focuses almost exclusively on the goings-on of its protagonist, Kirito, and a handful of friends and allies; LH has a larger cast and spreads out screentime between the characters more, despite also having a definite main character.

In all, the two shows balance each other out well. Watching them at the same time would most likely be jarring, but viewing them one after the other would provide a good mixture of action and relaxtion.

Kreados says...

In both animes players are trapped in a virtual world. Log Horizon focus more on living in this new world, where as SAO's focus is escaping this new world

sillysia63377 says...

Both have the similar concept of a game becoming similar to reality. If you like the genre, these two are definitely similar. SAO is more action/fight-based, however, while I found Log Horizon to be a bit more slow-paced, taking the concept of what would happen in such a scenario more seriously, getting very detail oriented.

RoyalOss says...

Both shows start the same way, thousands of players are trapped in a game and unable to log off. But they take each a completely different route.

Sword Art Online focusses on the action to complete the game to escape with some romance. Log Horizon focusses more on the story, the reason and how to escape are unknown, they must figure this out all while trying to make a suitable lifestyle in the game. Log Horizon is a shounen so it contains some humour and less action but it is very interesting to see the aspects of dealing with the gamelife and how to handle the NPC characters.

Dionyzeus says...

The settings are similar, the characters are both trapped in a virtual world and are forced to live their lives and adjust to the rules of their altered reality. The only other similarity I recognize is that they are both engaging stories that keeps the question "what's gonna happen next?" in the back of your mind leaving you wanting more.

JtkBasketball says...

Both animes take place in a video game world that has trapped all of its players against their will. Leveling up, classes, how to eat, and evil players exist in both worlds. Log Horizon is more politcal, while SAO is more action. Both develope their worlds nicely.

ArcticSword says...

SAO and Log Horizon were about their gamers being trapped on the game. Characters were forced to fight to death in the game. Both have good quality in art and storyline. Having Fond of action and fantasy anime, the two are highly recomended.

crossfire92 says...

Same initial theme of Sword art online (being trapped in a game). But it evolves into a more economic, strategy based adventure. Lots of tactics and thinking and unless you enjoy games the fact that the world is much like a game might annoy you. Where Sword Art online was about surpassing the game Log Horizon is really about the same method but takes that much, much further.

Sethmac75 says...

Both take place in a game like environment. Both sets of Characters deal with being traped inside the game or game like environment. Both deal with the human condition of how they treat each other in game.  Plot and genre are very similar.

Kyuubikku says...

It's pretty much the same premise with a more lighthearted delivery. Definitely worth a watch at the very least.

shad0wn3t says...

they both share aspects of being trapped in a online mmo but at different with different things on the line however both animes are amazing and worth watching for Action / Comedy / Romance / RPG

death565 says...

Very Similiar plots about large number of people being trap in an online game and working to try and find a way to live and return to the real world.

hollowknight says...

both are vrmmo based anime that share a similer story and both will keep you on edege wanting to watch the next episode just because you cant stop thinking about what will happen

Kirito09 says...

Both have similar theme/story like being trapped in the game world. Log Horizon and Sword Art Online have those romantic comedy love which will keep you watching since you wonder "Will something happend?" or "will they get closer to each other?" and the fighting style entertaining and every episode will be more exciting. You won't regret watching those

thatotakugirl says...

Both are set in scenarios where the main characters are trapped in online fantasy games, however Log Horizon is much more light hearted as it lacks the the threat of death SAO presents its characters. It also treats it's female characters much better. 

ShadowForged says...

The two are basically based on the same plot where humans are stuck in a VRMMORPG from which they attempt to escape from. However SAO focuses mainly on a romance too between the two main characters which Log Horizon has more action. I personally like SAO more though :P

Baze175 says...

they bouth start of Extrimmly simular But one goes the romance rout ,The other goes the polytical route

Blackwolff says...

they both are where people who log into a game and cant get out. though log horizon is more light hearted then SAO

GreenChaos says...

Both SAO and Log Horizon deal with MMOs, Guilds and being stuck in a virtual world.

I would say SAO is more mainstream and faster paced and Log Horizon is slower has more characters and can suffer from more filler. So check both out.

Plazey says...

Both are about the same thing. Being stuck in a game. They both, however, display it in a different way, and are equally interesting to watch.

staffordshire says...

story is about a bunch of players stuck in a virtual world. log horizon 1st season was quite good, but 2nd kinda sux. SAO both seasons are good and anime itself is much better put together. anyway i like both of them, so enjoy

L3VI says...

Both animes are about people stuck inside a game, an mmorpg. In Log Horizon you can spawn back witch you cant do in SAO.

nazertheyounger says...

They are pretty much have the same plot.... people get stuck in virtual reality, band together, there are people who do bad things because it isn't "real life", therefore we have a group of heroes who set out to change things for the better. 

Sound good?

estherpinel says...

they both have the same story, they get trapped into a VRMMORPG (ORPG) people do bad things with magic and stuff and its kinda like aincraid and alfleim combined together

chcha says...

They are both about a group of people stuck inside of a game. they both contain many challenges but in log horizoin if you die you get re-encarnated where in SAO you die for real

Vigerzz says...

Both are really great, each have a different outlook and focus in relation with the theme of mmo's.  I really enjoyed the aspects of both highly reccomend you watch them both if you enojyed either one of them.

Rijen says...

Both take place in a MMO being trapped. While SAO is almost purely focused on Kirito's brute force + harem, Log Horizon has much more story development.

bukoras says...

plot of both anime is kind of same , but how they take it is different  ,  both main charecter are awsome in thier own way , sword art online dosent show the rpg world properly where it mostly concern's in the fighting , in log horizon it shows the rpg world, if you like rpg games you must watch both the animes .

note - rpg(Role-Playing-Game)

Snowys says...

In log horizon is more like in the game and i really like it that way. Then there is very good plot but there is no Asuna :( , there is Akatsuki :) . No i really dont mean Itachi and co-workers :D Little assassin that will serve and love the main character, what do you want more then that :P 

shadow4945 says...

Although they focus around the same premise, the vibe from these two shows could not be any more different. You still have the virtual world, but the goals are completely different since the show takes a different perspective of being in the game

rbjr73 says...

the subject matter refered to as the "gamers experience", has been touchy in anime for a long time... the reasoning defies explanation but theses show are done in such a way that you become lost in wonderful experience...enjoy!

klonatory12 says...

both are player-trapped-in-the-game based animes. while both have very different animation and storylines, the premise is the same and both are quite enjoyable to watch.

lego290 says...

Both have so similar settings you could almost think they just copied it from one to the other.

soham says...

Actually the story of Log Horizon is better and muh more intriguing for me personally!!The concept is pretty similar and you will enjoy it if you liked SAO

akashiyumi says...

Both stories are based on online games. Both main characters are smart but,( as of the current) I also think that Log Horizon is better that Sword Art Online in the aspect of gaming. But since Log Horizon is still ongoing the judgement of which is better could change. :D

SentientCrab says...

While both premises are incredibly similar, Log Horizon takes it in a completely different direction. SAO relies heavily on battles and the death rule, but LH is much more focused on the political structure that arises because of being trapped in a game. Some SAO fans dislike LH because it doesn’t have a permeant death feature, but I think LH’s decision to avoid a permeant death allows for some of its strengths to shine thru. For instance LH decides that kidnapping is worse than PK-ing, and not having a death rule allows for a massive theological discussion on why things can respawn “Sprit Theory”. If you want something with a little bit more depth than SAO I would strongly recommend Log Horizon. 

LordMace says...

Log Horizon and Sword Art Online have numerous similarities. The largest of them is that they both take place within massive, complex, dangerous, and detailed MMO worlds where the players are trapped. This gives a fantastic setting and the unique array of characters do the rest of the work. If you liked one of these I find it hard to believe you would not like the other.

Kirito2424 says...

Obviously these are both shows about people who have been trapped in an online game but after that they are quite different as far as the plot where one is about escaping their world and the other is all about trying to establish and build a world worth living in. Both stories have a group of friends who go off and have interesting adventures and build a world together making these two shows an obvious choice to watch one if you like the other.

echotwo says...

All characters are trapped in a MMORPG game without no say, and have to figure out how to get out and how to survive by them selvs. You follow their journey though the anime. It is very entertaining, and I really liked them both.

They seem to be very smilar because of the same plot base, but they have a totally different development. 

JadeRegent says...

The tones are definitely different but the overall themes of the two shows are the same. Groups of people are thrown into a video game and have to slowly relearn everything they know in order to survive in this new world.

Schmiddles says...

Even though they both have similar circumstances and loveable characters, the characters face unique challenges in their own worlds. SAO gives a look into a fictional future world where you can virtually "dive" into the computer. SAO dwells into the mind of the characters going through such a traumatic experience: never leave the game or die trying. While this has a more realistic feel since the story bounces back to the real world, Log Horizon gives a more in depth storyline based around the MMORPG gameplay. Both are exciting and give anine-lovers and gamers alike a new genre to hopefully look forward to more of in the future:Gaming/Virtual Reality.

Aerythrin says...

Both set in an MMO environment, SAO focuses more on raw fighting than Log, which focuses more on the tactical side of MMOs, if you enjoy one you will most likely enjoy the other.

EDN says...

same type of stories. the characters get stuck into a game, although log horizon has less fighting and more planing. 

supersuppishman says...

They are similar in concept, but different enough in characters that they're still very unique and interesting shows

Falantar says...

Similar concept, more focus on MMO mechanics, a bit less romance but still awesome. Main characters are very similar.

noocnexus says...

Similar settings, i.e. sci-fi/fantasy where players are trapped in a MMO, unable to logout.

These area also of similar lengths, somewhere around 20+ episodes (when taking into account season sao2).

Stahu says...

They both have same story, about people trap in the game world. And now they have find out how to escape.

Nicknames says...

Both anime focus on a group of video gamers who get trapped in a virtual world and have to find a way to get back home. The main difference between them is that SAO is more action-oriented while Log Horizon focuses more on explaning it's world, the mechanics of the game they are trapped in and so on, but if you liked one make sure to check the other.

hylene says...

Same general theme. More love story in SAO than in Log. Plenty of stuff to keep an MMO fan happy, and demanding full immersion vidjya games. Both are still a decent watch.

AllenCz says...

I cannot agree more!

Both anime takes place in virtual reality and theirs protagonsits tend to do crazy stuf. ;) If you like SAO you wil like LH or otherwise, you have to watch the other!

Amadeus01 says...

Well both have a fair amount of similarities in relation to each other, so if you liked either of them its safe to say you will probably also like the other.

Both plots being revolved around MMORPG(VMMORPG in SAO's case) players trapped in the game unable to log out, establishing their own direct/indirect rules/society in order to survive and move on.

Main differences: SAO is a bit more romantic-oriented focusing mainly on Kirito(the protagonist) overall and his relationship with Asuna. While Log Horizon having teamwork, teameffort taking the lead with various participants-somewhat distributed character development and also much more in-game details and developments which may make SAO seem a bit plain to this sector. Still both great, having lots of fun watching them.

Barrowight says...

Same theme. Both have a creative ideas on how being stuck in a game affects people and politics. SAO has a more individual focus on a hero with higher stakes, while LH focuses more on group dynamics.

necroknight713 says...

They both work with the idea of being sucked into a vitrual word and adapting to the challenge. while both start as MMORPGs the worlds and characters go in vastly different directions making it very interesting to watch these two animes unfold. 

Wachsengel says...

you might like it because they are aswell captured in a Virtualworld with the slight difference that they dont die when they die. but you have to be a bit more of na mmorpg fan cause it has some more tactics of them build in as in SAO but in general you should like it :3

AlexaSN says...

Both are about people stuc in a video game and have spectacular main characters. Even though essentially SAO's MC is a hot-headed fighter and Log Horizon's MC is more of a tacticion, there are similar in some ways. Also either one of those has a lot of comedy and is very fun to watch

nofaec says...

both mmo oriented, focuses on combat and in-game life, while allowing a chance to experience a tale from different prospectives of death in-game...definately worth a read :)

Sushiroll6 says...

its both mmoand theyre both stuck in this world but have diffrent stories and fun characters 

blueberry113 says...

The concept for both are the same- each is involving a male protaganist who has become stuck in their video game after logging in like many others and can't log out. Sword Art Online is more vicious though because death in the game is a death in life but they know the goal necessary toescape while in Log Horizon it's more accepted to be trapped in a video game buy those who were and the world they get stuck in develops with every day. SAO there is levels that never change but Log Horizon everything is changing and it tries to focus more on the strategy of maintaining a living environment than trying to escape as fast as possible and killing everything in sight.

Sukaaretto says...

They. Are. Similar. That's all.

Ok, JK, JK

Well, they ARE very similar, but the characters are very different from each other. But basically, the same storyline. 

Arigatou for reading this Minna~san! :)

narutoshocker says...

A story driven on players that are forced to enter a gaming reality. Both the series are great for those that are into games or the idea of VR. But I would say Log Horizon has a story that's more in depth and actually has references or simularities to games that most people have played today.

RobyParak says...

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RyomaGetter1 says...

Works better the other way around, as Loh Horizon is a deconstruction of the tropes that made Sword art Online a huge sucess even the whole food ordeal is a plot point in Log Horizon and Sword Art Online

EruOtaku94 says...

this is literally a given, though I think more people like LH than SAO. In game-set anime.

PurpleCatAngel says...

Like Sword Art Online, Log Horizon is about a group of people trapped in an mmorpg game and they group together to survive the elements of the game as well as other players.

will1331 says...

Log Horizon is like a more game-world centered version of SAO. SAO focuses more on the real world implications of what happens in-game (at least after aincrad) while Log Horizon is moe about how to build a new society when you get stuck in a game with no way out

Zelow says...

They are both based around MMO games and what it would be like to be trapped inside of one.

FullmetalDragon says...

These are basically the same anime with different characters and a different game. Both are awesome. Highly recommended.

Kucziczu says...

Both series revolve around a large group of gamers who are trapped inside of an Game. The characters in Sword Art Online prioritize to find a means of escape and is more dramatic while leaning towards the romance side of things. Log Horizon are quick to adapt to the situation and learn to live in this new world and really goes in to more depth about the realm of an MMO. Dying in Sword Art Online means dying in reality, while you can respawn in Log Horizon but you're gonna lose something important (I don't tell nothing of this because It's spoiler).

Log horizon is centered more in strategy and battles than Sword Art Online. The game is mixed with reality and appear new abilities which only exist in reality.Log Horizon political and economical aspects, were really interesting addition, to an already good anime

So I can definitely recommend both titles, regardless of the order in view.

animewatcher2002 says...

Both anime have a plot set in a game.                                                    

darkKilt says...

both shows have the same premise being locked in a game. both are good with differint sub plots and way there presented both are good.

gregsterix says...

they are both mmo's where everyone is stuck in this virtual world and have to survive the harsh chellenges it faces

KillerBear123 says...

Both are stuck in games and have to find a way to survive. They both search for a way out. Nevertheless, log horizon is more of a less emotional and more strategy based series, unlike SAO.

Pemmby says...

Both Anime have great graphics and amazing stories. The character development in Sao (Sword art online) is a little slow but stick with it to see the amazing turn around. Log Horizon has the same aspect of Sao and it also has a World of warcraft kind of feel about it. Both amazing Anime in my opinion!

Trogdor says...

Similar idea of being fully immersed in a video game. Log Horizon is twice as long which allows for more character development although I had a harder time getting through the second season. I had an easier time getting through SAO, although I think it would have been better without the second season.

triatath says...

Firstly, both are set within a video game which instantly makes them both fairly relatable. Secondly, they both attempt to tackle the dark and romantic elements of being teens trapped inside of a place with no escape, and they both do this very well. 

BloodyRedRoses says...

It's awesome, they both have many similar qualities in the genre and it's just worth watching in general.

Weebboi123 says...

The start of the story is same as SAO.

Both of the mc are suddenly trapped inside the game they love.

But in Log Horizon they are suddenly teleported into a world exactly as the game they play.

thatbadpun15 says...

THey are similar in storyline as the characters in each story get trapped in a virtual world.

sparx28 says...

almost same idea, players get trapped in the game and cannot log out. The game becomes the lives of the players and they have to figure a way to log out of the game.

ShadoXRay says...

Because both have the same premis of getting stuck in a MMORPG but one focuses on the players trying to get out and the other trying to make it possible for people to get in and get out as they please

CallofCrisis says...

They both are really similar although for personal prefernce i liked the MC from SOA more, but overall they both are really good anime.

Laird says...

booth are the stuck in games type, while in Log horizon you dont really die if you die in the game

OverBlank says...

It's almost the same because it's based on a game and there is an action, but what make it diffrent is that the situation on the movie, like this one is about finishing the game and this one is about living peacefully clearin the quest.

Slovotsky says...

To be honest, they have very different main plots. Log Horizon is focusing on events in game, while SAO is focusing on few main characters, and events in real world. Still, I recommend both shows, worth your time.

drago390 says...

This anime was a good asset to the making of future 'anime' but all in all both shows could possibly be even had able to gone further.

kurodekira27 says...

They are very similar animes but Log Horizon takes being stuck in an RPG in a more real direction. Instead of continuosly leveling up the main characters, instead, create a new laws and power positions. Not say that leveling up and typical monster fighting doesn't ever happen in the game because it does. All in all Log Horizon is generally like a more advanced version of SAO.

yukiasuna3 says...

Both Sword art online and Log horizon follow a similar storyline that have people who love MMO games that get stuck in the virtual world but do their best to live with it.

jinxlandon says...

both are mmorpg. log horizon is more about planning and the strategics behind an attack and sword art is all about the combat scenes. Log horizon has less romance and more Harem but they both are amazing

an1manga says...

Sword Art Online (SAO) and Log Horizon are both about people living in a MMORPG world as the character they play. The main difference is in their focus: SAO focuses on an elite few's quest to "beat the game" and save everyone from the evil mastermind's plans, whereas Log Horizon focuses more on interactions among members of a party, members of a guild, between guilds, and between players and NPCs. Both shows cater to an audience who enjoy animes based on fictional virtual reality MMORPGs, and although their focuses are different, both are enjoyable to watch.

Zomok says...

Both have the setting of being put in a game and having to learn to survive. While SAO is the person's mind stuck in the game Log Horizon seems to be the whole person. In SAO death is permanent but Log Horizon the gamers are revived but at what cost...

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi. 

AiVyLe1 says...

Both of the anime are basically with the same idea or concept but instead taken in different directions, creating 2 amazing anime.

Argentum says...

About being living inside an MMO game and trying to survive / raise your levels / be the best and have a happy ending.Soft, cute and fun.To watch with your girl and friends.

xanderpies88 says...

similer MC. both are trapped in mmos. i would recommend SAO over Log Horizon, as far as anime. but that is only because of the low liklihood of Log Horion getting another season, since its creater went to prison for money reasons. they are still both good anime though, and my persanal favorite genre, aside from isekei series.

hinkil says...

Players stuck inside the game                                                                                                            

JaeckAnaquth says...

They are both based on being sucked into the game and are following an over powered Main Charecter but I tink you will like the log horizon more if you didn't care to the love plot SAO has

CancerSnatcher says...

Both share the same premise of people being trapped inside of a VR MMO, but each series uses this premise differently.

ceciliedr says...

They have some things i commen, but is stil very diffrent :-)

Both take place inside games, white players being trapt in them.

IrisAnne33 says...

both anime has the same setting that is on the game world and real life, and those who exist in both the anime is caught in the world of gaming, the difference, if the SAO everyone tried to get out of the game, in log horizon no one character-that is trying to get out of this game world or rather the story is not emphasized on it.

xzavion2121 says...

nice veryyyyyyyyyyy niceeeeeeeeeee dudeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Valentina1997 says...

Both stories feature main characters that are trapped in the game they were playing. While I find both anime great I personaly prefer Sword art online because there is more romance in the story.

dedpsyki says...

1. Based on a game 

2. Main character is over powered 

3. Main characters trapped in another world 

PukkaJam says...

Even by reading The description of this anime there Are lots of similaritys, but if you like theese stuck in another worl type ankmws Sao is a good place to find it. You have figting, comedy, friendship, gamers and step g characters in both of theese and im sure The enjoyment of Sao will be just as great as this one if its your type og preffered genre 

dubeldragon says...

Two anime about people geeting stuck in a virtual world and searching for a way back home, and it's not the same show. what's not to like

Wiezo says...

Both seris share almost the same idea of a MMORPG with players trapt in the world without any sight of ever comming back to the real world. Both sereris is some of the best of it types and can be recommend to all there like MMORPG or just anime

TomKong says...

both a vr where they get stuck in the vr world, both have a mc that get/is op and makes its surival of the fittest

mesanator says...

same premise, but Log is slightly better than SAO season 1 in terms of plot line and character development, not sure why but I feel like SAO rush through things such romance with Asuna.

Beth0410 says...

Both great anime that start with the characters getting stuck in a videogame. Some difference is where SAO has virtual reality so they were not thrown off of being within the game except when they realized they were unable to log off  where Log Horizon was just a pc game and suddenly wake up within the game and had to learn quickly how they could use their skills and such. 

Riyaz18 says...

Because there story plot is pretty similar but the story is different . if you like sword fight i recommend you sword art online not log Horizon. Because in log Horizon sword fight is not much screen time .

AssistBot says...

Both animes' story is about a group of people who got trapped in a virtual reality game and are trying to either escape from it or learn how to live in it. Both MC have friends who help each other in the fights. Also the is the RPG element.

macdog says...

Both of these animes are similar to eachother in the way that groups of people are stuck in a virtual reality and they are working to find their way out.

Littlesilverwolf says...

Both are story about life in games. Instead of reality, they are stories nearer to fantasy. Both are towards vr games.

MasterMalt says...

They are both amazing animes. I personally love them both and would re-watch them both at any given time

MoonAnime says...

Firstly, both gems belong to Isekai genre where protagonist gets trap in a game and tries to find a way back home (out of game). 

Secondly, they both are different in story from each other. So you won't be bored. 

kubaleroy says...

again both are the "locked inside a game genre", BUT like a BIG BUT sword art online gets different by a bit later they escape from the game but then they lock the mc up in different one (sometimes a bit mixed so games that he can leave BUT....something etc.) and so on, this repeats like 3 times. Then the mc, in log horizon mc is a tactician meanwhile in SAO the mc has op skills.

Sev229 says...

Sword Art Online and Accel World are both anime adaptations of two light novel series written by the same author, Reki Kawahara. Both are set in the future where virtual reality combined with gaming technology are present, and are even set in the same world, with Sword Art Online taking place in 2022 and Accel World in 2046. Both series explore the exploration of the virtual world in which both of the main characters are suddenly plunged into a VRMMO while fighting in the game for something much more than just entertainment. Sword Art Online takes a more dramatic and mature approach while keeping the idea of these new VRMMOs in skepticism while players are fighting for their lives, while Accel World is arguably more playful and where VRMMOs are much more accepted and players now fight for the power and ability to "accelerate" in real time.

Sakux says...

They are basically the same, animes based on characters playing online virtual games.

The difference is that in Accel World the characters want to be forever in the game and also want to know the creator of the game  and his/her purpose with the game.

In Sword Art Online, the creator and his purpose is known in the first episode, and the characters want to get out of the game.

Also in the two titlles the male main characters are lonely people that change their way of life because the apparition of a girl.

zerak says...

they are both the same consept in a way they are both about a game were you are the player almost phiscly and you have to clear the game  adding that they are by the same writer  

dandere says...

Both anime are centered around the main character playing a real virtual online video game where you must fight to level up. Both take place in the future.

OhImFrozen says...

Both have alternate game realities, which begin seemingly fun until real life tangles into the game and things become more complicated.Similar themes, Light Novels by the same author. 

Naga says...

Minding that both are made by the same author it´s not suprise that these 2 have so much in common. Both are around main protagonist in some kind of virtual world. While SAO is more serious and more of less a high stake game where they actually fight for survival and escape in AW they do it...well they duel all right... I´m not sure myself... I guess for the sake of it... Both anime contain a lot of flashy action and world exploring, which is quite good.

NaokoOfSky says...

The reason to watch both is because they both take a similar premise. And both are equally interesting, written by the same person and dealing with the same thing, the virtual world and MMOs (Massively-Multiplayer Online Games, for those who know naught of them). But the other reviews would also state this. Both MCs are flawed characters in their own way. And, the concepts are different, but just as interesting as the other.

WaveMasterJohn says...

Both revolve around a virtual world where the protagonist spends most of there time. the only diffrence between the two is that  the protagonist for sao (kirito) actaually does something while the protag in accel world hides behind his friends. (for the most part)

Xzure says...

Same author, they both take place in a vrmmorpg though one is purely fun/competitive while the other is a survival. They're both great and I highly recommend both of them!

hannes33 says...

the biggest thing they share is the alternative world, in which most of both animes take place. Additionally both other worlds are some kind of game.

for every role play game fan, these animes are a must watch. and there is hardly a chance that you dislike one, whne you like the other

valocis says...

Besides them being written by the same author, and both containing a central them in a fully immersive virtual world that involves all five senses. The largest diffrence though between them is that, while both do have high stakes, Accel World is definatly not as high staked as Sword Art Online where losing means death. I HIGHLY recommend watching both.

flaze says...

SAO: Interesting premise, a complete let-down regarding battle scenes.

AW: Awesome battle scenes, ridiculous story.

Both are not that great but if you really enjoyed either one, and are looking for something similar, this is your best bet.

P4NCH1 says...

It's maybe the same timeline. Sword Art Online happens in about 20 years the future and Accel World in 20 years more.

The technologies used in both series are the same, but different versions.

wyvern73 says...

After watching Accel World i was reminded of Sword Art Online instantly. Both anime involve games and and trying to accomplish something bigger than themselves by doing so.

Shanalogic says...

Both based on 'virtual reality mmorpgs' but I really like SAO much better, i even dropped Accel World. Accel Worlds kinda awkward and i dont like the main character. Also, the plot is silly and SAO's plot has much more meaning behind it, well it has more 'survival' sense to it.

Accel World all you can lose is stopping time, and they make such a big deal outta that. So silly, I thought. And what i dont get is why they made the main character so dislikable and annoying, with personality and looks (fat)

SAO you can lose your life. The suspense over that is nice, and the main character is not annoying and is not a typical male hero that is dense, kind or whatnot. And there is romance that is not that awkward and embarrasing unlike Accel World.

Maybe Im very biased, but i deeeefinitly think SAO>>>Accel World. :)

Slaanesh14509 says...

I only started reading the light novesl, after watching the series, but from what I see, they both play in the same world, just after each other on the timeline (at least one episode strongly hints in that direction). Both have the same premise of using online games as the characters main way of interactions, although SAO forces it onto them, whereas in AW the characters choose to use the MMO.

anime101 says...

Both shows are about romance and living life inside the video game world. Their  are some major differences beteween the two shows. SAO takes place inside the game world with little reference to the outside world with more focus on the romantics rather then action. Accel World on the other hand has alot more to do with the outside world but they never really leave the game, Accel world also focuses more on action then the romantics. In any case both shows have romance and action along with good storys requiring the main characters to be the top of their game to reach their goals. If liked one you will most likely like the other.

slaystock says...

Both animes are Sci Fi tagged animes. Both of them are very interesting and mystery. Both of main characters in these two animes are Students. In both animes have two worlds.

Kirigaya says...

How can it not be? Main Protaginist goes into a virtual world and fights difference is that Accel World you can leave in SAO you can't until you beat the game.

Nurse says...

They are both about virtual reality games. They also have similar art. Of course, Sword Art Online is more serious.

Luiven801 says...

Because the storyline is nice and the artwork is good, I love how they combine game and real life (or anime) and how the technology is pretty much convinient in both ways

darkone666 says...

Both are been created in the same universe and by the same creator. In one of the ep of Access World, you even see them talking about the Nerve Gear (one has the current technology and the other has the precursor)

Both are greatly enjoyable and you get attached to the main character.

DrMarmelo says...

Both are about online games and are in the future , both are about romance while in the game

I think that if you liked one of them you will like the other

biggkenny says...

They are both set in the same universe and both about games containing VR. Accel World is definitey easier to keep watching for me as the romance in Sword Art Online (and yui) was not the reason I watched it and was rather unecessary. They feel very very similar, and if you like one you will definitely like the other one.

Doomoo says...

Everyone has mentioned the main points as to why they are obviously great recommendations for each other so I'll tell you the strong points of each. They each have very strong points and while I feel Sword Art Online is overall more entertaining they are both well worth the watch. Here we go.

They are both great all around but Sword Art Online's story is much better but Accel World's Animation and sound track are absolutely top notch. So they both have very strong points. I would put Accel World's animation and sound track in the same league as Bakemonogatari (though not as experimental/artist) in quality. While I would say that Sword Art Online's story in the same league as Shiki.

jiropracter says...

Set in the same Universe, both deal with Virtual reality video games and are action packed. Both have romance aspects to them as well.

Kexmix says...

Same author, same world, twenty years apart. Both are great and if you liked one of these shows, you'll definitely like the other.

dBo0ii says...

Both series involve the protangonist going into a video game or video game-like world. In Sword art online they are in a MMO where they need to quest and such, in Accel World they are in more of a classic fighting game.

thymez says...

I recommend this anime for the ppl who luv mmorpgs! This anime is very intense and very beatiful fight scenes. Must watch!

mercurybubbles says...

They are by the same author. Both animes incorporate the idea of nerve gear and full dive video gaming experiences.

Animeboy424 says...

Accel World is the same like sword art online. Both anime are the same with big differences to the story. 

FullMetalAnimest says...

There both death games, and the same person wrote them, and you have a nice little romance going on in both of them :D

JohnWatchAnime says...

both Accel World and Sword Art online are set in a videogame. The action in both shows are simular and both have thesame settings

Haganai says...

GooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooD

DrumChik says...

they are both set in the future with amazing gaming devices, great fights and character development...

nalbuque says...

Similar themes and storyline but main characters in sword Art are much better and can't be compared.

NinTeddie64 says...

I could say what everyone else has said about how Accel World shares the same author as Sword Art Online and is even it's spiritual successor, but that's only part of the reason why I'd recommend Accel World if you liked Sword Art Online. In a way Accel World is a subversion to Sword Art Online. Whereas Kirito the main protagonist of Sword Art Online is shown to be a confident fighter capable of doing almost anything, Haruyuki Arita the main protagoinst of Accel World is the opposite being a weaker willed protagonist that becomes more confident as the story progresses. Another difference is that Kirito is a lone wolf capable of fighting on his own whereas Haru relies on the help of his friends while becoming more confident. If you liked Sword Art Online I'd suggest checking out Accel World since it's a similar plot but in the perspective of a different type of protagonist.

AltaireFate says...

If you like SAO then you should watch this anime since it involves virtual reality and has good animation,plus it is made from the same author as SAO.The main character is not as bad as you think since people did quit just because of the looks of the main character.This anime is pretty much a boy that wants to escape reality.

flip2012 says...

i agree beacuse they had all the things the same the director, voice actors and the story is kinda same and theyre inside a game and both main characters are powerful

NoOneImportnt says...

Both are bassed off of video games and they both have a romance strongly presented. Also you see the main characters being fairly powerful compared to the rest of the people presented. 

TheBear9696 says...

They both have a game based world where you have to win or lose everything from life to a happy life 

Deazent says...

Accel World and Sword Art Online are very similar to each other. In both animes players get into a game to fight for something. The avatars players use in SAO looks more like how they look in real life, but avatars in Accel World are completely different. In SAO people fight for their lives, to get out of the game, while in Accel World people fight to keep their power in real world. In SAO people can't log out once they beat the game, but in Accel World you can log out whenever you want. That's why SAO seems more motivated than Accel World to me. They both have some kind of romance, but SAO has more of it. 

Conquerer says...

Both the animes are based on virtual reality, futuristic, with neuro linkers and the fate of your real life being dependent on your performance in the other world.

casualterror says...

Both were written by the same author and both revolve around a future with VRMMOs and Video Games. Both are even based in the same universe with Accel World set years after the events of Sword Art Online.

Precursor says...

Written by the same author, the story revolves around a video game setting. Both the main male leads are the extreme cases of a gamer. One who finds gaming as his only specialty and the other who is lonely, inside and outside the world of gaming. However, with the help of the female lead, both characters learn to open up. Both plots also have a very similar goal, to find the creators of their games and its purpose of creation. If you liked the elements in either of these animes, please check the other out. I was hesitant to find an anime with an obese male lead, but give it a chance, you'll find it likeable.

NarkyOtic says...

If you enjoyed Sword Art Online, then you'll likely enjoy Accel World. The parallels here are very significant. They both centre around teenagers/younger people in a futuristic society, where 'logging in' to Virtual Reality scenarios/worlds is commonplace for those who possess the technology.

Both of these titles feature settings where physical battles in these VR worlds are the catalyst for much of the story's movement.

I would recommend both ways as the similarities create an almost dual channel of genre/setting/conflict which would appeal in both directions.

ytty123 says...

It's written by the same author. The nerve gear from SAO is mentioned. IT's the same universe (reality) as SAO. It has a SAO feel + mechs. I'm a fan

The only difference is that Accel World's protaganis isn't a god.

Sucker4Crime says...

Both have story plots that revolve around being inside a futuristic mmorpg/ Both have stakes in which there is a reason to play the game. SAO has a more dramatic approach for the first half of the anime however it isn't completely high stakes after the first 12 episodes. Accel World has a lighter approach to things however there are still stakes involved. Both were also created by the same writer. If you enjoyed one you will probably enjoy the other. 

Cyclaz says...

It is another anime based on one of novels of the same writer. It is set in the future timeline of sword art online though it only connects lightly to it. So far...

Bestanimeserie says...

Not only are both shows written by the same authour, both shows are about games the main difference is that in Sword Art Online the players are trapped in the game whilst in Accel World the characters can just hop in when they want to. Both shows are set in the same world with accel world set a few years after sword art online. Both shows also feature lots of combat & ecchi moments so if you like one you'll most likely like the other as well.

XxMicrochibixX says...

Accel World and Sword Art Online are both sci-fi anime based on light novels by the same author. Both involve a virtual reality video game and have some romance mixed into the story.

kgg1290 says...

Both shows come from the same source and are loosely tied together in the same universe with Accel World taking place in the future of SAO. Tonally and thematically the shows are quite different but if you enjoy one you will probably enjoy the other. The elements of dealing with the fact that the main characters are very important online while being nobodies in real life is a key similarity and the shows take that and run with it in different directions, creating two distinct shows.

xarclesh says...

Created by the same mangaka and linked to the same universe.  Accel World has a game where you are putting your memory on the line to gain extraordinary powers usable in the real world.  

drkabutops says...

They are very similar in backround plot and the way the story's are both carried out is similar as well, if you like one, you'll definitly like the other

MrVandalous says...

They're both written by the same person and are assumed to be in the same universe on different timelines (accel world being several years ahead of SAO)

IGSF says...

Very similar technology, with Accel World's being more advanced. Both have excellent action that will keep you wanting to watch the next episode before shutting down your computer.

Nakazura says...

this anime and perfect as it sums up the lives of many people, including me, do not have words to describe anime that SAO is fantastic, and will be

Redback209 says...

both have a great story revolving around one persons experience in an alternate world (video game). The rules of the worlds are continually being broken but the main character manages to overcome the challenges to become a better and stronger person

FanzBoy says...

Both written by the same author and exploring thier concepts in a fun way. If you like anime's where you interact in a game this is a good set to watch.

LunarTriggerX says...

The game interactions with real life are actually set in a similar world, probably due to the fact that both are written by the same person.  In terms of similarities, the comparisons aren't all that many.  The main characters are fundementally different, as are their love interests. The story focuses more around beating the game for the sake of gaming, whilst Sword Art generally is about beating the game for means of survival, or for the preservation of that which is most important.  

espie666 says...

Same author, same premise, yadda yadda. Both take place in a digital video game and both characters either have special abilities or are extremely advanced in the game. They both have fantasy elements and are very similar. If you liked one, you would probably like the other.

Swerto says...

They're both based in the same universe and written by the same man. Accel World takes place in the future after SAO's storylines have come to a close. Accel World hints at SAO, but never outright spoils what happens during it, so feel free to watch both together. 

SakoChan says...

Two very similar anime, about the link between gaming and real life. Both have a male lead character with a close relationship with a female, both characters gradually evolving while playing.

Two must-see anime, definitely!

crossfire92 says...

I believe it's by the same author. If you are ok with a bit darker premise you should be fine as accel world relies on the same premises (overwriting the game with your own imaginiation).

Stahu says...

Similar world, nerly the same. I think its eaven from the same studio. And in SAO 2 Kirito want to create a link system the same is in the acell world

BorislavRangelov says...

Story revolves around games, relationships between characters and character development, especially in Accel World where one chacter completely transforms. Won't spoil which one.

Kifinosi says...

Both of these anime revolve around similar concepts, with problems arising inside virtual gaming realities, and with relationships and characters continually developing in both. Not only that, but these both occur in the same universe.

Mirager says...

they are the same practicly. Sword art online left accel world very far behind in sales. oh 100 characters recommendation space needed

animepapa says...

Same author, same visual-reality-concept, same world wtih Accel World set in the future of Sword Art Online. The stories are not similar though.

loksorr says...

Wery similar concepts.

Accel is a bit lighter mind you. And has super powers granted to players while Sword art is more realistic.

RedBullAnime says...

On a similar line, in the Anime characters uses a Neuro Linker, a future version of the NerveGear of SAO. It's pretty similar for the Online World where the characters fight and take a part of their live, i reccomend to watch some episodes before dropping it, at start its not so attractive but it become more interesting and nice in the next episodes, not bad for who love anime based on video games et similar

Jennosaur says...

Short and to the point (because there are some other rambly recomendations above) THEY'RE BOTH AWESOME YOU SHOULD WATCH THEM BOTH OK. Have a great day.

MagicalGirlJodi says...

Both shows are written by the same person and from what I've read on the internet SAO is a sorta prequel to Accel World. I personally prefer Accel world over SAO but I'm sure some of you can find enjoyment in both.

ACEDICE says...

Both are based of LN wrriten by the same author, both revovle around the same tech and both are based on games

pager says...

Both animes are about a game that the characters can't leave. I would say that SAO is better of the two, but I still loved Accel World...it just needs more episodes

akashiyumi says...

Both anime have the same setting and there's also a humor that both stories are connected somehow.

ShiranaiSan says...

These two anime both are based around video games and video game players. While one is about the story of being trapped in a video game and the other being about how a video game can change your life. I feel as these are very good and enoyable anime.

NanoRain says...

They're both about virtual realities with futuristic technologies. They also have nice animation.

takuto860 says...

Both anime are by same author. Both are VR based anime and has romance btw the MCs. AW takes place in future of SAO in arguably the same timeline.

jkcoaster says...

Same ideas with many cross overs

Both are great shows just some dull parts in both

both have great story lines

ilikeweatherguy says...

they are made by the same author. With the same level of action and romance with a game element it is one that you may enjoy.

dayumdazai says...

Video game centered animes that draw you in and get you attached to the characters quite easiy and quickly. With several ways the plot is able to go, it's cool to watch them unfold. I would suggest watching SAO before AW. 

hollowknight says...

Both take part in a virtual enviroment and in both storys the main charater becomes attached to this virtual enviroment and shows the main charaters strong points.

Yamsensei says...

Same author I believe. Even the same world too. Not the game world, but the "real" world just about 30 or so years apart. Accel World isn't for everyone. I actually liked it more than SAO.

ascodaynnee says...

The author is same. and you will feel the same feeling after watching both of them, for me maybe because of high technology.

ConCon19 says...

Set in the same universe on Nerve Gear but in different time generations.

If you've seen one of these, then the other is a must watch.

That is if you love virtual reality that affects the real lives of the characters.

Kirimya says...

Sword Art Online is bascially kin to Accel World. They both include of virtual reality and there are also many other similarities. Another one would be that Accel World mention the head-gear used in the first season of Sword Art Online and the Brain Chip that is mentioned in one Sword Art Online novels. In other words, Accel World takes place after Sword Art Online and has connections to it.

mackbaggins says...

It has some references directly to the universe; it also has to do with VR games. it kind of has the same author also

aRealHazelnutt says...

Same author and universe, Sword Art taking place in the 2020's and Accel World taking place in the 2040's. The main difference between the two is that Accel World's story is a little weaker because it doesn't have that dire element that Sword Art has. But on the other side I think that the characters in Accel World are better then those in Sword Art. I'am not saying I hate the characters in Sword Art I think a lot of them are amazingly done, I just found myself liking characters more often in Accel World. Both are amazing shows and should be watched if you liked one you would like the other. If you haven't seen either one I would say start with Sword Art Online just because he wrote it first and because it comes first in the timeline.

ashkansirous says...

It is in the same world with sword art online but 20 years later.

a very good story and very nice world which I believe can come to reality in the near future

Slasher says...

they have same Light Novel author                                             

HowardYing says...

Both of the animes might appleal to the other audience due to it's basis, a digital world. On top of the appeal of the story taking place in and out of a digital world, the animes have been known to be connected by a passage of about 70 or so years having Kirito being in part of the development of the technology that is used in Accel World. However that is all speculation of fans and has not yet been proven.

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi.

Lcn says...

Same universe just 20 years later, read SAO: Alicization for more info, this way You will be able to see how they connect.

hhoomn says...

Recommended anime,

Filling rest of 100 character explanation, Filling rest of 100 character explanation, Filling rest of 100 character explanation, Filling rest of 100 character explanation.

disrail says...

Both protagonists are super good at video games. Both series have a similar feeling of life-or-death desperation, a romantic sub-plot, an overarching mystery, and a healthy dose of action to keep it all moving. 

Teka123 says...

Both anime are related as such accel world refers to the technology used in sword art online. As accel world is set in a future time period than SAO.

ShiroHatake says...

Both shows exist within the same universe just in different eras. Both look at how technology can create games that are AR or VR, and how they empower the characters. 

Lamia69MJ says...

Both Anime has gamers & Online Gaming, hotly-anticipated MMORPG that lets players connect to an immersive virtual reality world with special Tec, Characters quickly becoming friends till Log Out,participants must survive the game as best they can – some forming guilds, others ruthlessly leaving their peers behind, and many tragically falling by the wayside or to the merciless Opponents & Enemy's Hand..20'th Century's Sifi worth Watching Anime 

CodeDragon says...

The series have the adventure, dungeons (floors), love story and more in common. Both anime series are set in a non-realistic world and I recommend to watch both of them if you love game or role-play styled anime series.

AnimeEmma99 says...

The two have a very similar atmosphere to it and the protag's need to get stronger. The colors used along with the art style is very similar and I personally loved SAO and Is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon. Im sure you will too.

YuiYui says...

So another first impressions recommendation, so to start off both have a RPG feel. In SAO they are trapped in a game and most of the arcs following are about RPG games. Then DanMachi has a very RPG feel, like the dungeon and levelling up, in a way the joining up with a goddess is like joining a guild. Also there is action and the mc wants to get stronger from the start, and so I think if you enjoy one then you should enjoy the other.

SugarTitSenpai says...

Both have very deep characters and nice animation. Sword Art Online is more driven to the VR fans, where as Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? is more of a fantasy setting. Buckle in, Both are enjoyable and give a nice fantasy setting but in a different time.

Niveek says...

Same vibe: MMORPG and romance.except that SAO is also in the real world, and 'Is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon' dungeons are the real world.

AdonisAE says...

Both are about MMORPG's whether they're virtual or real and contain a side of romance. The main character is also voice by the same person in both anime

john34404 says...

The storys are both a fanticy setting with a main charicter fighting to survive. The only difference is that in Danmachi they are familiar with what is happening, while in SAO they have to fully adapt.

MrMadness says...

I think that it has the same style of storyline. Also, the voice actor for Kirito is the same as Bell! (Yoshitsugu Matsuoka)

xDark says...

Dungeon? Check

Strong protagonist? Check

Doing everything for that one girl? Check

Well animated and colorful? Check and check

Worth your time? I'd say yes it is.

Yupix says...

Dungeons and the main character of both series is voiced by the same guy, so equaly awsome.

Riruri says...

Just the overall feeling of the animes are similar. The art is similar, the video game feeling, and the main characters are similar too. If you liked one you'll definitely like the other.

Silvrex says...

If you like sword art online, you will like this also. 

Romance, Game-like setting, and a powerful main character.

The story later will get you off your seat. Plenty of epic moments in this anime just like sword art online.

Both character are dual bladers also :D

Blinko99 says...

Both have very simular style of story and general idea also both main character are played by same Japanese Voice actor.

redtear17 says...

Dungeons, girls, and rpgs style life. Very similiar in setting, although SAO has better character development

Rt26 says...

i watched them and i liked watching them so i think it is a good recommendation . and they are similar to each other

notpinkpotato says...

Both of them have themes revolving around games, dungeons, player towns and everything of that sort. They have a touch of romance too, making the viewer cheer on their ships while enjoying colorful fighting scenes. Both main characters are so lovable and have great power.

Those two animes givee the same feeling of wanting to live in that specific world where you gain levels by fighting monsters. No matter which one you start with, you'll surely enjoy the other one as well.

Slxngerz says...

sword art online has a similar story in term of there being a tower/dungeon and a boy trying to be the strongest he can meeting many girls along the way. even though the plot has many similariteis their differences make the world of difference and both are great anime i would fully recommend. 

SSmith1014 says...

These shows both have a light romance and heavy adventure aspect that strikes a pretty nice balance. While character development is a little weak in both, the characters are likeable enough. Both have pretty neat world-building too. Overall, if you like one, then the other is probably worth checking out.

WolfAngelus says...

-Both anime rely on a gaming MMO environment that is dungeon based with leveling up, so the concepts are identical. -The main character for both falls into the same situation of having multiple girls fall for him.-Both contain a fair amount of action (sword combat)

Error001 says...

First off, I just want to say that both anime are amazing and they resemble so much of one another. 

Now, you wouldn't think that based off of the two diifferent titles that the two animes would resemble one another but you'd be suprised. Both animes have the whole theme of leveling up in a world where you have floors and boss level that you are supposed to pass. The only difference within the two animes is that in, Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? you have a normal outside world and your life isn't at risk due to a game. 

TrainerT says...

This show has a similar feel to SAO the worlds and animation style are quite similar and while the main character Bell is not as strong as Kirito the two share many similarities and there's plenty of romance in as well, so all in all if you liked SAO I highly recommend this show

Laird says...

They are almost the same

But is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon is not a game is just their normal life

exZachly says...

The environment and concept of these two series are akin to each other and even the protagonist of each share a voice actor!

They focus heavily on game systems; leveling and battle strategies. Both have layers of boss flooring that increased in difficulty as you progress further which is accompanied by rewards. Also elements of comedy and romance are included. 

Yarrcad says...

Both anime have video game esque dungon delving aspects to it. The big difference is while Sword Art Online actually takes place in a video game with the use of VR, Is it wrong... doesnt actually have anything to do with video games and intead simply takes place in universe with a video game esque feel to it. Sword art online does slow down and turn into more of a romance later on, whereas Is it wrong... keeps the action flowing while still having some romance.

jakelikesnaps says...

Very much so alike one another. If you like one, you'll most likely like the other. :) Happy watching!

Colby0705 says...

They are both alike in terms of fantasy and action.  And although they both have, I would say, quite a few differences they are both fairly decent seires.  (And although I like Sword Art Online way better, both are good seires to watch.)  :)

Lunee says...

Both shows have this action/adventure theme going on together with a little romance. This makes it both exciting and entertaining to watch these shows. At the same time they do have the this kind of game feel to them. Where SAO is in an actually game, is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon? happens in a world that have a game like vibe to it. Another word for this game like vibe could simply be fantasy. However SAO do have more dept and story to it than is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon? but they are still both good shows that i really enjoyed watching. 

Zelow says...

Action anime with a video game-like background. Admittadly Is it wrong to pick up girls in a dungeon is not based on an MMO like SaO, but they are very similair in other ways. Well worth the watch.

jinxlandon says...

The levels and the dungeons and the girls. literally it ALLL reminds me of SAO and Is it wrong to try to pick up girls in a dungeon. SAO has a lot more development in the relationship of the main character and his crush but they both have romance. 

apjonguitud says...

This is definitely similar to SAO. The fighting, leveling up, even the main character and his girl are similar. I would describe Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon as SAO meets Attack on Titan. Enjoy!

pervyrabbit says...

Both of these animes are amazing! I kept flashing back to SAO as i watched Is it wrong to pick up girls in a dungeon?

Texasluke1 says...

These shows are very similar in setting. While one takes place in a VRMMORPG and another takes place in realtime, they both occur in a fantasy setting where there are floor levels, monsters, ultimate death, kill drops, romance, and stuff you would find in an mmorpg like runescape or elder scrolls online. People belong to different guilds or families and learn different skills, stats, and jobs that they use to not only survive but too move up in the world.

Janetilton says...

They are both action packed, full of romance and comedy scenes

And sword art online takes things to a whole new level,with extra drama anticpation and even sad scenes that sometimes make you want to cry

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi.

Chocochip says...

It's very similar to each other. Danmachi is a fantasy anime where characters fight monsters in different level difficult similarly to the characters in SAO where they fight different levels to finish the game. The main character in Danmachi, Bell is very similar to the main character of SAO, Kirito in the sense of their ability, they are simply just too OP. 

FatalTeaParty says...

Both are centered around a main character who embraces the hero archtype, as well as a leveled dungeon layout. Albeit, one is the reality of the world and one is a video game, both animes are based on the idea of leveling up, fighting monsters and beating floors. All the components of MMO's are there in each anime.

Desiderium says...

Both contain:

-clueless and overpowered protagonists

-action and supernatural genres

-harem undertones

-MMORPG-styled 

Shadowrose96 says...

This definitely has a similar feel to SAO initial story arc. They both have dungeon crawls, monster fights, and a MC hellbent on becoming stronger. If you are a fan of RPGs then they both fit perfectly. 

Oblithian says...

Fantasy world, tower climbing, solid companions, both comedy and some intensity. Both have capable female co-protagonists.

guidopk says...

Simply put, Danmachi is funnier and more consistant with itself. No op main character rigt fro the start is a bonus. Recomended

Otakucon says...

I liked both because the main character always feels like he might be in a harem or might have a Harem,The Protagonists are innocent in the series

EmpKIng says...

i kno i did most animes about fantasy are centered around magic and whatnot so they go hand and hand.

Hikaru8 says...

Both take place in video game.  Sword online you pick go into the game but find out you can't so if haven't see why watch it! In Wrong to pick up girls in a dungeon? the main guy didn't pick to go into the game and he think pick up girls online games our stuped but once he inside he unsure want to do at frist

Hutai says...

Naive main character who keeps getting better and becomes op overtime. Tons of girls with huge boobs. Dungeons and clearing levels.  Some ost's are pretty good, has a few same voice actors. 

Mintymingi says...

Theyre both about the same type of video game, so I think people who like SAO will enjoy IIWTPUGD and vice versa. 

sunnytwo says...

Basicly these two Anime have the same storyline. Game turns through an incident into reality and the story evolves aorund the top player. They're both still ongoing but I enjoyed both of them so far, they are definitely worth watching. Altough I personally like SAO more but it is still too early to make up my mind about Btooom!

Jankr says...

its basicly very similar. only a slightly different concept.. while in this anime he finds himself with the game equipment and all that... in SAO gamers are actually trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG game where you cant escape unless you clear the game and, if you die, you also die in real life.

SakuraX says...

I highly recommend Sword Art Online and Btooom! both ways. Mainly because they are both quite similar (both are about survival, Btooom! revolves around this topic whereas this topic is most dominent only in the first arc of SAO). Btooom! has actual blood involved and also has a bit more, in my opinion, (depends on what you think) mature themes than SAO. The setting of the story is a bit different. Btooom! takes place in the wilderness in the real world while SAO takes place in a populated region in a virtual world.

Overall, these two are a must watch. If you haven't done so already, watch it! Hope this helped! :P

jeremy19124 says...

I agree that these two are similar but they differ in SAO Kirigaya Kazuto (Kirito) gets stuck in this newly released game that was supposed to be all the rave, but after he got the game and started it up he got stuck by the game creator who wants to test the human race. But in Btooom! the main charcter gets taken away by men in black suits and sent to an island but he cant remember thelast few hours. after traveling in the world he opens the bag that he has never seen and there are bombs in it. While trying to regain his memories he realizes that it is exactly like the game that he is ranked #10 in the world Btooom. the two have a simmilar theme they revolve around the game they play but they differ by this. they both need to complete the conditions which in ryoutas case is to callect 8 items from his dead enemies but in kiritos case he needs to beat all 100 levels of the tower and defeat all of the bosses that come with each of them. if you have only watched one of them or neither of them i recommend you watch them both they are really good anime in my opinion.

Rayray1000 says...

the two series are very similiar because in the both games the main protaganist is an excellent gamer who gets stuck in a high stake game risking there lives in sword art its vrmmorpg that if u die in the virtual world u die in real life  but in btooom the main charcacter is among the top players of a game called btoom then gets choosen by someone who hates him to particuipate in real life version. and in both the main character falls in love in the game. one of the biggest differences is that btoom is more explcit wen it comes to blood and gorry stuff if u liked one i suggest the other

AL57 says...

Same kind of setup, Btooom! is also a dethgame with a lovestory (more deathgame than lovestory though :P).

MFM says...

Okay, basically they have the same storyline: They're both about a guy who loves playing online games but one day that game becomes real. Their lives are at stake and they are forced to "play" to survive. Both have a little of romance in it to spice things up. However, Btoom! has (as it's tagged) more mature themes whereas Sword Art Online doesn't. And I mean physically and psychologically. I believe Sword Art online has a softer approach and maybe meant for slightly younger viewers. Therefore this recommendation is valid for those who have enjoyed this whole game idea and are looking for a worth watching similar anime. Personally, I enjoyed both.

shikikywketsuki says...

both of these anime's are about diffrent games: btooom! (fps (well kinda)) and sword art online (mmorpg) and geting such in that enviroment of the game. as well as having a similar gaming side they also have the idea of survival and freinds as in both anime's they have to team up in order to escape.

FullMetalAnimest says...

There both death games, and you have a nice little romance going on in both of them :D

And if you like Btooom and SAO try watching Accel World, it is very alike Btooom and SAO :D

crazyballons says...

I highly recommend Btoom because both of them iclude being transported into a game and not being able to leave until they beat people

JtkBasketball says...

With the main characters life being at stake because of a video game, it is difficult to not think that these two are very similar. The main protagonist also falls in love with a girl in both situations. These two animes are very similar, but each unique. 

eNdZq says...

Both have protagonists which are stock in a game(real or virtual) where they need to fight to survive and both actions are creating a beautiful love story.

alexzaharia says...

Similar plot - characters trapped in a game where they have to kill to survive, similar love story, similar overall characters, similar art

NoOneImportnt says...

Both series are bassed off of people being forced to either be stuck in a video game (sword art) or to live it in real life such as Btoom!. You also see a romance within both series and the main characters are really only good at videogames and nothing in their real life. Both are seen fighting other players and defeating the game mechanics in order to win.

Bloc97 says...

These two animes are very similar in the story side, in both the protagonist has to survive in some sort of "game" that a mad "scientist" has created for research or own pleasure.The only difference is that you will probably be less traumatized by Sword Art Online than Btooom!. Since the principal idea in SAO is to help eachother to beat the game (100th floor), but in Btooom! the goal to win is to kill 7 persons and get their IC chips.I would recommend both animes to anyone, but I don't think that young kids should watch Btooom! though.

-Bloc97 

sboy says...

I have seen SAO about 5 times now and it is still my favourite anime of all time. But a good anime to watch after watching SAO would be Btooom! Because of the similarities in the styles of both animes.

While SAO takes place in a Virtual MMO game, btooom! Makes a game become real life where players mist use their insticts to survive (and alot of bombs).

Both are amazing anime and are really worth the watch. If you like one you will like the other. Just Btooom! Is more mature in viewing.

AutumnFlower says...

both high risk games that result in death. However Btoom is using their real bodies and no special techniques or skills as to where SOA is using their virtual bodies connected to their bodies in real life. However both result in death because of the makers selfish and twisted desires.

markbarkins says...

Both of these feature a main character who is a pro at online gaming, and they both involve the online game becoming a deadly contest. They also both have compelling love stories.

Shaward says...

Base plot quite similar even if in different situations.. Btoom! has a quite wierd end.. for now

Fishy116 says...

In both of these anime, the main character is put into a video game and forced to survive. They are both extremely similar in both plot and everything else. If you liked one, I would definitely suggest watching the other.

HiddenNugget says...

Both of these anime series' are survival orientated, with an implied love interest between the two main characters. 

okamisan says...

Both have to do with a video game becoming just a little too real. In both series, the protagonist goes from an average (though skilled) video game player to a kind of hero. Btooom! is a little more adult in themes/execution, but fans of either series should very much enjoy the other.

ScaryDodge says...

Who liked one will also like the other because both stories portray a young man who gets stuck in an online game which he liked to play. And now with other players they risk their own lives.

espie666 says...

Both series revolve around a male and female protagonist stuck inside a real life video game. Both male protagonists are extremely good at the game they play, and end up helping others stuck in the game out, and sometimes even save their lives.Although these shows are very similar charcter and plot wise, they do have their differences. Btooom! is much more edgier, dark, and realistic. The characters also have to fight and kill others with bombs rather than magic or swords like in SWword Art Online. Also in Sword Art Online, the atmosphere is much more whimsical and cheery looking. If you're more into darker stuff, you may like Btooom better, while if you like fantasy better, you might enjoy Sword Art Online more. Either way, if you liked one, you will most likely enjoy the other. 

Dissey says...

They both have this amazing romance,action,survival and epic feels moments - <3 Btoom is shorther and less complex/unique but its still a very good serie // AS SAO have way more deph and details. But either way i am pretty sure that if you like one of them you will like the other aswell!

Airotia says...

I read Btooom! rather than watching the anime, but Sword Art Online and Btooom! have similar sort of concepts. Both involve games that had been fun for the main character previously that have now mutated into game of high-stakes life-or-death where only the best "players" can survive.

Kirito of Sword Art played in the beta version of SAO, becoming one of the top tier players before the game was released to the public. Despite the fact that his character is reset down to the starting point when SAO is released to the public, he retains a lot of knowledge and the strategetical mindset that helps him to survive when SAO becomes life-or-death.

Ryouta of Btooom!, meanwhile, was the top player in an online game of the same name. However, when he and other players are forced to play a "live action" game of Btooom!, he is thrown from a world where Btooom! is only a game to having to survive on an island with live ammo, rather than playing the familiar game at home on his computer.

The main differences between the two is that Btooom! is told as a much, much darker story. There is very little comic relief and light-heartedness, and the main character is actually pretty detestable. SAO, on the other hand, balances serious and light-hearted with a main character who is a kind individual. SAO also feels more like they are playing an actual videogame, whereas Btooom! is more like a warzone. Btooom! is more gorey and mature -- it doesn't shy from showing mutilated bodies and corpses, while SAO approaches maiming and death in shining pixel slashes and sparkling, heaven-bound lights. Another huge difference is the fantasy of SAO versus the real world-ness of Btooom!; while the stakes are the same (life or death), the effect on the "prettiness" of the world sets both of them apart.

R0ckyRZ says...

Both a survival game, with some physcological moments. Both protagonit are at the top of their game.

RoyalOss says...

In both animes the main character get caught up into their game and are forced to play for their lives. In SOA the players are caught into the game and in Btooom the game becomes reality.

Btooom is at the moment halfway the story and it will take a while before the second season has enough of manga material.

Rayso97 says...

These two animes are so similar. Both anime take humans to Real-game, when they can be killed. Sword Art is more cartoon and full of kidness actions, but Btoom! force us to things about feelings towards peoples. I would recommend both series. :)

edgar0725 says...

Great accion on both. Btooom's got a Splendid kind of accion that I've not seen in any other anime. Highly recommend its one of a kind action story. SAO is another great anime to just plainly love to see. It's virtual plot gives us anime fans/geeks something to look forward to in real life... the day when we can go into a virtual game n have fun.

M103Wrestler says...

Sword Art Online Season 1 and Btooom! have similar themes such as a character playing a new game and becoming stuck in the game either virtually or physically. Btooom! is somewhat the adult version of Sword Art Online. Btooom! deals with guns and bombs and SAO season 1 deals with swords however SAO Season 2 becomes very similar to Btooom! without spoilling anything. At the time of writing this, I have only seen SAO s1+2 and Btooom!.

raniok says...

they both incude games, killing (fighting) AND they both include the characters finding their romances in the video game

OverBlank says...

It's based on a game and there is action, but this movie is a little diffrent because Btoom fight wit bomband no sword or anything .

agfake says...

The storyline of both is similar where players of a MMO are forced to play the game by putting thier own lives at stake. The lead characters also have a similar love story. However the first part of SAO was far better than the second.

Personally, I found Btooom! much better in storyline and plot as well as character development despite being shorter of the two.

rajaymoore says...

Both of these are a play or die which consist of two shut in gamers who is now forced to live their favourite game with their lives in the line while trying to find their way home

GrizzyLN says...

Sword art online is a great anime, But if you like the concept of being stuck and having to win with your life on the line you will love btoom! as well. 

Maximz says...

after watching the first ep of Sword Art Online i was instantly and i mean INSTANTLY reminded of ALL of the .hack// series. a story about how 10,000 players dive into a game and are stuck inside of it until they beat the game any attempt from the outside to bring them back inflicts death, if they die in the game they die for real. VERY similar to .hack// i feel if you like sword art online then you should watch the .hack// franchise all of them are good and the games are just as great.  

DarkSide90 says...

Very similar in the concept of virutal reality, stuck in a game, as well as MMORPG style. Both very good animes.

sothis says...

These two are a PERFECT match. Being stuck in a game and not being able to exit? Check. Awesome music? Check. Excellent set design and fantasy creatures? Check. SAO is miles above hack on all levels, but this is a recommendation that makes sense above all.

Ryuuhei says...

These animes resemble each other in many ways, however SAO is much more sad and depressing. Even the paces are very different, while .hack//SIGN is slow-paced, SAO is extremely fast-paced. But I think you'll like each of this shows, they are both worth watching!

Arrandom says...

Same plot, virtual reality, stucked in a game, mmorpg style and low magic too are common things between this two series

SeraphTheRhythm says...

A bunch of people stuck inside an MMO at risk of their lives? Sounds like .hack//SIGN to me alright...

Adephi says...

What's not to like about people being stuck in an MMO?

Both series have similar concepts only in SIGN it's only one player that's stuck while in SAO everyone's stuck.

ZeroKami86 says...

SAO is like .hack//SIGN with a faster-paced storyline and higher stakes, so most likely if you liked .hack//SIGN you will love SAO, should go both ways - but if you don't like a little slower-paced show then you may not enjoy .hack//SIGN (it's not unbearably slow-paced like Shiki)

DrMarmelo says...

MMORPG in the future 

both very alike

even tho i prefer Sword Art Online i recommend both

Gavia says...

Both are based on the same concept: People stuck in a fantasy style MMORPG. Other than that though, they are wery different. Mainly, Sword Art Online isa lot more fast-paced and action-oriented.

soulreleaser says...

If you like anime based on being trapped in a video game then you'll love both of these great animes.  .hack//SIGN follows several different chacters in it's story the same way SAO does where as SAO moves a little faster in character development .hack//SIGN covers more of the mysterious online world.

Jarudin says...

The concept is very similar. An online RPG where players are 'trapped'. I would argue that the romance part of Sword Art Online is better, but the music score in .hack//SIGN is better.

DontStay says...

I agree with the masses, these 2 shows are definitely a lot like each other. The main story and the idea of both anime is having people stuck inside of a MMORPG game. Where in one, we got only our main protagonist to live inside the game and the other having all the players trapped in.

Tenomaru says...

.Hack is very much like SAO except for one flaw that SAO benefits from: The fact that .hack ends when the protaganist wakes from the game, while in SAO he awakes midway through the anime and has a portion for which he is awake.

illuminatedflame says...

It really has alot of the same premises except that in SAO they (Spoiler) are kept within the game due to removal of a logout option whereas in .hack//SIGN it is a virus which keeps them from logging out. But if you Enjoy SAO or .hack I would reccomend either to you.

tekman92 says...

.hack supposedly gave some insperation to sao i havnt watched the .hack series yet but as a big sao fan .hack has been recommended to me alot as sort of the gandfather of sao

AutumnFlower says...

Both are virtual worlds that effect the lives of the players real life bodies. However not as dramatic as SOA where they simply go into a coma in .hack//sign instead of actual death.

RG says...

The whole idea of a character or characters trapped in a virtual world with no way of getting out . . . that was what came to mind when I first found out about SAO. That said, both shows have their merits.

Swerto says...

Both revolve around a story where characters are playing a MMORPG and face an issue with logging out. In SAO everyone has this sisue, in .hack//sign only the main character has this issue. Both of their game worlds are a fantasy setting, and both have pretty fun action scenes. 

.hack is a much older series than Accel World/SAO, but its still great. Check the other out if you like it. 

miko says...

this is spot on without a doubt ! many times over I thought I was watching a .hack when I was watching SWA could be why I never could get into SWA.  but if you've never seen a .hack feel free to watch and compare.

Wandervox says...

It's almost certainly been said before now, but this recommendation is an absolute no-brainer. If you'd already seen one of these, watching the other surely brought this comparison to mind almost immediately. These two stories share so many elements -- they each take many pages from the same book... great book it is, mind you.

You have the main character that's stuck in an online game. Uneasy alliances are forged. Strange happenings abound. There are even some commonalities in the shows' visual design. "So what's left to make me want to watch the one of these I HAVEN'T seen," you ask? There ARE differences, and they take two very similar shows in two rather different directions.While .hack takes more the form of a mystery, preferring to keep you watching by taking you from one oddity to the next. SAO leans more toward action and offers clear, shocking reveals. .hack's main character questions who to trust and why, SAO's whether they should trust at all, and how to even do so.

.hack does suffer slightly from age, and SAO from a spot or two of questionable writing. Regardless, both are interesting and entertaining, and well worth watching, particularly if you are a fan of what either brings to the table.

MagicalGirlJodi says...

Both shows revolve around being stuck in an MMORPG. I feel Sign is for a more mature audience as it can be harder to understand but both are a decent watch.

tthelaw says...

Anime about people trapped inside one MMORPG, in the form of comma, with lonely people who find the joy of relationships with others

ermo says...

I first watched .hack//sign, and years later Sword Art Online (SAO). Immediately, after the first episode os SAO I was remindend of my experience of .hack//sign.

I think people who can tolerate a slow paced anime where you have to pay xlpse attention to the conversations can enjoy .hack//sign.

On the other hand if you like more action, than your show is probably SAO.

Both has very good sound tracks.

Febrianne says...

Awesome online gaming expernices, but from very different points, SAO is trying to get back home, trying to survive, and what it is like, NGNL is what if we don't want to go back? how do we make a life there and the expernice that is invivled with that :)

AIex says...

Similar characteristics in genre, along with relationships between characters. I'm able to happily recconmend viewers who've been left on their toes by No Game No Life towards what could be a next favorite, Sword Art Online.

blueangel06661 says...

Both are unique shows based on gaming based life. If you like the idea of a game based anime genre then these shows are compatible together and each offer their own unique art and story.

Dmandude says...

They're both interesting,action-packed anime's with likeable main characters and supporting characters. There is also nice amounts of humour in both of the above anime listed, and the story doesn't slow down at all.

Plazey says...

Both anime's are about people who love playing games, and happen to be very good at them. They are definitely different Anime's, but if you're a gamer, you will enjoy either one.

HiddenNugget says...

Both animes are game-based, although from different perspectives. SAO is more about survival and trying to ''beat'' the game, whereas NGNL is more focussed on living in the game and making your way. Nevertheless, both amazing animes.

Jennosaur says...

Despite the obvious similarities in plot, SAO and NGNL are pretty different. In both animes, the main characters are a female and male, who join together to fight for something, but they are fighting for different reasons. Kirito and Asuna fight for their reality, while Sora and Shiro fight to ultimately be able to challenge the God Tet. They have different plotlines, so therefore they are not the same. Basically, I highly recommend both shows. :)

saadebady says...

both are about game stuff but the Sword Art Online are in a holly big level ,but hey who dosen't want an awesome anime.

I recommend to whatch both of them.

Aleaux says...

I totally agree. Both of them have a lot of strateggy although Sword art Online have much more action. No Game No Life don't have a romantic point of view but more a fraternal one.They both are about a world that is made of games but the difference is that if you lose in  Sword art Online you die.

Mizu1993 says...

Both of those Anime are alike but also different. So if you liked one of those, you will probably like the other Anime.

XmasKing says...

100% agree because of the amount of similarities between getting sent into the game.They may have different goals but gaming wise and knowledge wise they are VERY similiar

Lotussos says...

Its not realy the same but somethings are the same and its a good anime so i think its worth to look on, and i think its one of the best ive seen (after SAO ofcource)

Telepathic says...

Both anime a are about games. No Game No Life is incomplete and Swors Art Online has a story most people agree could have been better made. SAO has a plot about scalping the game whilst NGNL is about Living it.

Jarubakit says...

I just want to agree on this recommendation to help out. Now I'm just filling up hundred characters.

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi.

swagswagyes says...

you'll also like no game no life because it's about two main characters who got sick in a world of games it's preety much the same except in no game no life the whole entire world isn't a big game

J24601 says...

Not only are both about entering a game world, but, they both have funny, sad, romantic and cute moments sprinkled throughtout them. If you like one, no doubt that you'll like the other!

DylanCP says...

They both stuck in games. They both have overpowered characters. And, they both adapted from the manga.

zzzzzzzzzzz says...

(SPOILERS???)

They both have a storyline of being teleported to a magical world and can't go back until they've finished a major task.

I love both animes and I definetly reccomend SAO and NGNL!!

macdog says...

They are very similar to eachother and yet very different animes with very different plots that occur. If you like one you'd definately like the other.

caramulix says...

Both of the animes are about war and games and have amazing plots. They also share some other similarities such as the two main characters being a duo and fighting side by side. However, don't go into No Game No Life expecting the two main characters to fall inlove- uh... they're siblings, but you can ship or do whatever you want haha-. Anyways the two animes are very similar and I would reccomend No Game No Life to a Sword Art Online fan or vise versa.

izehlee says...

my reason? well, I dropped no game no life but these are kinda similar bc they are in the isekai genre so yeah. or if you'd like games and stuff then maybe you should try wixxoss it like girls gambling and what not but don't worry its not like kakegurui so you have nothing to be afraid of.

Littlesilverwolf says...

Both are anime about games and with mains who are good in game. No game no life is an isekai anime while sword art online is a vr game. No game no life is more thinking and fight between wisdom and cheating while sword art online is more towards sword fighting.

Bregrubb says...

It just has that same feel... You know?-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- : ) 

00083115567 says...

grimgar and sword art online are both anime of a group of peaple that were sudenly placed in a game were they have to become strong to survive.

GameMasterPhoenix says...

Both anime are set in RPG-styled fantasy worlds and feature a similar mixture of combat, character progression, and relationship development. Both of the anime also have a central focus on death as a permanent state, blurring the lines between fantasy/games and reality.

Asuna0San says...

they're both fanstasy, stuck in another world, but both have their own personalities too! Watch both!

Stormbrook says...

They have very similar premises. The stories have a lot in common, and there's a lot of similar themes that people would like. They are different enough that people cannot claim they copy each other.

Blukeah says...

Both these animes share the elements of an RPG game with classes weapons and skills with death in the game being perminant

Laird says...

Grimgar of fantasy and ash are a littel game like, but Sao are more technologi, also we are not cirtan that the cahrekters are in a game

YuiYui says...

Both are about a group of people stuck within an RPG world where you have to try and survive, and if you die then you die, there is no coming back from the dead. Both have generic characters and similar storylines so  guess if you enjoyed one of these then you should enjoy the other xx

BloodyRedRoses says...

It's awesome, they both have many similar qualities in the genre and it's just worth watching in general.

FinalSora says...

For the most part they have the same feel. With them both telling the story from the point of view of some type of melee fighter in a strange world. Additionally as the story goes in both, the mc's discover/develop hidden powers that rank them as one of th strongest in their worlds. The main difference is that Grimgar is a bit more team focused while Sword Art Online has some team focus, but for the most part it is all about Kirito.

an1manga says...

Both animes are about people suddenly forced to live inside a virtual reality MMORPG, but the group of people they follow are on the opposite ends of the spectrum. SAO follows the elite players' battles of conquest that constantly expands the borders of the players' known world and brings them closer to the "endgame" of winning their freedom from this virtual prison. Grimgar, on the other hand, follows a group of "leftovers"--people who lack any knowledge about how the game world functions and must learn everything the hard way through trial and error, where the price of failure is often death. It's not to say SAO is without deaths and sacrifices, but those are mere casualties of the protagonists' fights against world bosses and evil players, and each victory is celebrated as a major accomplishment by the good elite players. For Grimgar, each death is very personal, and each triumph is only a small step forward for this ragtag group. Yet over the course of the Grimgar series, each character has shown tremendous growth, mostly because they started with almost no skills to survive in this harsh world.

Despite their differences, the two series are also very similar in many aspects. They both deal with human interactions in an isolated online setting where one's identity in the outside world does not matter and where the laws of the outside world play no role. People are forced to make a living the same way one would expect to in the worlds of fantasy fictions. Most importantly, unlike in most games, you only get one life--no second chances. For these reasons, and because of their likeable characters and similar animation styles, if you liked one show, you would be likely to like the other show as well.

Zomok says...

Both thrive around the setting of arriving in a new world and having to learn how to adapt and survive.

mjm1620 says...

Grimgar builds up to a similar feel to the first SAO arc. SAO hits intense levels of emotion early on while Grimgar builds up slowly. For me, as with SAO, Grimgar's ending was absolutely satisfying and makes my imagination run wild. That's what fantasy is all about. Grimgar's characters are a lot more diverse in my opinion and the world has more potential. 

TLDR: They have a similar atmosphere in the end but very different pacing.

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi.

LastGamer13 says...

It's equaly shit....But if you liked one of them I can for sure say you will maybe not dislike the other one that much....

FriendlyDemon says...

Both Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash and Sword Art Online have similar premises. They show a group of people trapped in a MMORPG world that has to adapt to living there, while trying to figure out how they became trapped and how to survive.

AndriasSch says...

In both the characters are trapped in a fantasy mmorpg world, were they need to learn skills and loot from monsters in order to survive.A main theme is how the main characters struggle with friendship after they lost friends from their parties, and they are obstratized by others due to their level of hability.

Noriko says...

These shows have a similar setting. A protagonist is stuck in a virtual world they can't possibly log out of.

In both shows, at first it's unknown why the players can't leave the virtual world. These shows have a similar setting, but not a very similar story, still, if you liked one of these, you might easily like another.

Frawd says...

Both anime are about people getting stuck in a virutal MMORPG. They are filled with cool battles and good story. Sometimes when you watch Overlord or Sword Art Online you just wish that you were a part of their world or that you would also get stuck in a virtual MMORPG.

Nicknames says...

Both anime are quite similar between each other. In both of them the main character gets stuck in a virtual reality game and has to find a way to go back to his world. They have a little difference though, since in Overlord the lead is a not-so-evil villain while in SAO the main character is one of the good guys.

If you liked one you'll enjoy the other

tootalls says...

Both stories focuses on highly skilled and experienced super gamers trapped in RPG worlds.One accepts living in the world, the other triess to escape.

either way, if you're into RPG games, you should get a kick out of both shows as they are very loyal to depicting life in and RPG, just as an RPG gamer would expect.

themaster123 says...

I think this anime is worth watching because the acționa is good, the idea of being trapped into a game that resembles the real life is very good. Another reason to watch this anime is the story the characters are following and the romance between Aduna & Kirito, with it's comedy.

animewatcher2002 says...

Both anime take place when the main character is stuck in a game. The plot covers what happens within the game from the main character's point of view.

rbrothers says...

Both are very amazing anime. They also have similar aspects such being stuck in an VR game and trying to adapt to their new lives.

egon0044 says...

Both shows take place in a virtual world and share other story concepts and themes, because of this, they also share the same genres.

iJavz says...

It's pretty good if you liked Sword art online. plots and characters are king of the same. Specially both are really action based with lots of sci-fi.

khakisheep says...

This may very well be my absolute favorite of this genre/theme.  It has a very real feeling of what and how you might react if you suddenly did wake up in your favorite game.

The motivation and progression of the characters does not follow a typical route, but instead is full of many new things you won't have seen before.

KYS says...

sword art online is an good amazing anime and has a really good fantastic story line. Its story is really unique and does not go at a fast or slow pace. I find SAO zamazing and it builds good charecter in the people and you really grow on them. They add such fun different personalities and i was hooked on it soo much. I like love sword art online and would rate it as one of the best animes 

KarmaKhameleon says...

Both anime take the perspective of a highly skilled gamer main character who gets trapped in a MMORPG. They are both thrust in to a position of leadership and fight for their survival within the game.

FriendlyDemon says...

Transported to a new world? Check.

Can't leave that new world? Double check.

OP main character? Triple check.

Following the main character as they uncover the new world, try to lead and survive? Ding, ding, ding! What more do you want?! Go and watch both of them!

ShiroHatake says...

Both shows are about characters who become trapped in an online game. The main characters are both very powerful. 

SeagulEatingFries says...

Both are people stuck in mmo vr, but Overlord mc is the evil boss himself. Both animes have at least ONE character that could end all lives, Momon (Ains Ooal Gown) in Overlord and Kayaba Akihiko (Heathcliff) in SAO.

KyraAutumn says...

Both have the main story take place in a MMORPG. Both animes have that magical fighting element.

bringiton265 says...

I'm not quite sure how to describe it but the graphics remind me a lot of DMW and if you liked the graphics in Sword Art Online you will like DMW, although just a warning, DMW has quite a bit more blood than this series.

Osiummaster says...

Both are about life and death games, though deadman wonderland didn't really have romance.  they both have a rather mysterious girl (though shiro is alot more mysterious)  and you come to understand the protoganist as the story progresses

Wirusan says...

They Both feature characters put into live or die situations. While SAO is more fantasy and Deadman is more violent and the language is more mature they both have that "Will they make it." suspense feeling going for it.

KarnowoB says...

They both feature deathgames esq. story lines as well as very good fights. Though other then this factor its hard to say anything about them is similar.

SpaceCobra says...

In both, the protagonist is locked into a life-or-death situation with no way out.  Of course SAO has more heartwarming events.

Risana says...

Both main character push themselves beyond the limit....... and then go even harder. You simply can't beat that... or them.

sboy says...

Both have a Life/Death scenarios although Deadman Wonderland is alot more gruesome and bloody, SAO has a very deep and interesting plot which will keep you hooked from episode 1.

Ranisimo says...

Having watched both SAO and DMW, I would recommend both to anyone - especially if you enjoyed one of the two. I'm not going to go into too much detail, although both of the anime’s feature the same pressure applied to the characters: You've got to fight to live, or die trying. A common interest in both the animes is that the characters are all locked up in a sick society against their own will where they'll receive no mercy, so have fun!

Note: DMW is far more gruesome and gory than SAO. So if you don't appreciate guts and blood, give DMW a miss.

hamletsmage says...

Both animes involve games you can't escape unless you win. There are large casts with varying abilities and the threat of death around every corner. Deadman is a tad bloodier, but both anime have a tense thrill underlying the episodes. 

ShinyArtOnline says...

The 2nd arc in SAO is kinda like Fairy Tail I don't wanna spoil why but give it a try ;)

Xaring says...

Action, fantasy setting, friendship, life and death situations... But remember SAO has a great romance part to it, while Fairy Tail does not.

Chun1310 says...

As both are action,comedy,romance,fantasy anime in both anime hero is overpowered or so I think

FlyingMintUnicorn says...

They both have high fantasy worlds that have some sort of magical element to tham with a Duo consisting of a boy and a girl (Asuna and Kirito) (Lucy and Natsu). They have different stories and plots but the bones to both of the animes are pretty moch the same and it's worth your while to watch both of them.

jessycakarin says...

well, i just watch sao, and i pretty like it. first i think that fairytail's going to be a boring anime, but when i watch it i found something same between them both. dunno just a feeling lol

Leepramen says...

They are both great and I loved every second of them they both involve magic and you can fall in love with the characters 

ChloeSAOlover says...

they both have simaler plots. They also have amazing art. Also , I think asuna could have the same voice! But it is obvious that they are both very good 😊!

Fuuoshi says...

They are both magical! Plus a AMAZING story, details, plot, graphics, drawings, characters, snd LOADS more!

LuckyM says...

I don't know how to describe it, they are just amazing. These two are my absolute favorite series ever!