Sword Art Online: Lost Song

The gameplay in "Sword Art Online: Lost Song" is characterized by its action-oriented mechanics, featuring real-time combat and unique aerial movement that allows players to engage in battles both on the ground and in the air. While the game introduces enjoyable flight mechanics and character-switching, it suffers from repetitive missions and a lack of depth in combat, which may deter players not already invested in the franchise. Overall, the gameplay is accessible and fun for fans, but it can feel dated and monotonous for others.

The music in "Sword Art Online: Lost Song" features a mix of licensed tracks from well-known artists, which some players found enjoyable, though the overall soundtrack is described as pleasant yet not particularly memorable. While the cutscene music and certain songs received praise, the integration of these tracks with the voice acting in visual novel segments was criticized. Overall, the soundtrack complements the game but does not stand out significantly in the broader context of gaming music.

The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many players appreciating the anime aesthetic and vibrant environments, while others criticize the outdated visuals and occasional graphical glitches. Some users note that the character models are sharp and recognizable, contributing to a sense of wonder, but others feel the graphics are subpar for a 2018 release, likening them to older systems. Overall, while the game offers a visually pleasing experience, it struggles with consistency and modern graphical standards.

The game features a significant amount of grinding, which many players find repetitive and time-consuming, particularly for leveling up characters and completing achievements. While some enjoy the grind as part of the experience, others feel it detracts from the overall enjoyment, leading to a mixed reception regarding its pacing and gameplay dynamics. Overall, it appeals to fans of grind-heavy JRPGs but may frustrate those seeking a more streamlined experience.

The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players experiencing significant performance issues, including low frame rates and poor graphical fidelity. While a few users reported smooth performance throughout their playthrough, many expressed disappointment in the game's overall optimization, especially when compared to previous titles in the series. Overall, the consensus suggests that the game suffers from poor optimization, detracting from the overall experience.

The humor in the game is generally well-received, with players finding the dialogues and side events to be funny and reminiscent of the original show. The running animations and certain character designs, such as exaggerated boob physics, add to the comedic elements, although some aspects, like character creation, are criticized for being poorly executed. Overall, the game offers a fun experience filled with humorous moments.

The game offers strong replayability through its engaging grinding system and multiplayer co-op mode, allowing players to team up with friends for a more dynamic experience. With all characters unlocked for play, including returning favorites and new additions, players can switch up their gameplay, although choosing characters other than Kirito may limit access to certain side stories.

The game's stability is mixed, with some users reporting graphical glitches and frequent freezes that can disrupt gameplay, while others note that it runs smoothly without noticeable issues. Overall, experiences vary significantly among players.

Character development in the game is noted to be lacking, with reviewers indicating that while the story is well-written and character design is visually appealing, there is minimal growth or depth to the characters themselves. Players seeking a strong focus on character development may find this aspect disappointing, rating it around 6/10.

The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its refreshing and immersive qualities, enhanced by a fitting soundtrack and engaging environments. Players appreciate the interesting plot and new characters that seamlessly integrate into the game's world, contributing to a chill and smooth MMO RPG experience. Overall, the atmosphere is considered a standout feature, elevating the gameplay beyond previous titles in the series.

While initially perceived as a cash grab, players find the game's monetization approach more nuanced, likening it to a simple MMO with single-player elements. The detailed mechanics, such as NPC interactions and cooperative gameplay, suggest a thoughtful design that may justify its monetization strategy.

The emotional aspect of the game is generally seen as engaging but lacking the depth found in the best anime narratives. While the story may not be profoundly touching initially, it does show improvement and emotional resonance towards the end.