Sword Art Online (SAO) is a light novel series by Reki Kawahara that has been adapted into manga and anime. The story revolves around a boy named Kirigaya Kazuto, who is trapped in a virtual reality game set in the future, where numerous VR games exist. Each arc of Sword Art Online presents a different storyline, but the timeline remains continuous.
Below are the 10 most notable characters in the Sword Art Online franchise to date:
10. Asada Shino (Sinon)
In the tenth position is Sinon, whose real name is Asada Shino. This character was first introduced in the Gun Gale Online (GGO) arc. Sinon is known for teaching Kirito many skills in GGO. In the game, she is recognized as an exceptional sniper, capable of accurate shots from a distance of 100 meters. Furthermore, she can wield the rare PGM Ultima Ratio Hecate II sniper rifle.
Later on, Sinon appears in ALfheim Online and Project Alicization as a bow user.
9. Bercouli Synthesis One
Bercouli serves as the commander of the Integrity Knights and is a character introduced in the Alicization arc, where he faces off against Kirito and Eugeo. His weapon of choice is a powerful sword that can cut through opponents with a single swing. In battle, he was able to defeat the formidable Vecta, showcasing his strength and tactical skills.
8. Eugeo
Next is Kirito’s closest friend, Eugeo, from the Alicization arc. He assists Kirito in overcoming various challenges and becomes a skilled swordsman. Eugeo’s weapon is the Blue Rose Sword, which he utilizes to fight against several members of the Integrity Knights, including Bercouli. However, his skills are not enough to defeat Quinella.
7. Kayaba Akihiko (Heathcliff)
Heathcliff is the main antagonist in the Aincrad arc. He also appears in a supporting role in the Fairy Dance and Alicization arcs. Heathcliff is the leader of the strongest guild known as the Knights of the Blood. However, it is revealed that Heathcliff is actually Kayaba Akihiko, the Game Master of Sword Art Online. He is also the creator of the NerveGear, Cardinal System, and The Seed.
6. Alice Zuberg
Alice Zuberg is introduced in the Alicization arc, alongside Eugeo. However, she loses her way after becoming an Integrity Knight. Her main weapon is the Fragrant Olive Sword. As a high-ranking Integrity Knight, Alice is one of the most formidable combatants.
Moreover, she has been shown to take down large armies of Vecta’s forces on her own.
5. Asuna Yuuki
Asuna Yuuki is Kirito’s partner and one of the main characters throughout the Sword Art Online series. She first meets Kirito in the Sword Art Online game. Together, they become vital characters for the safety of all players trapped in the game.
Asuna is the vice commander of the Knights of the Blood and is known by the nickname “The Flash,” which references her exceptional speed in combat.
4. Quinella
Quinella, also known as Administrator, is the primary antagonist in the Alicization arc. She is the ruler of the Underworld and has the highest authority in the Cardinal System. As the Administrator, Quinella exerts full control over the world she governs and possesses the ability to manipulate the game’s mechanics at will.
Quinella is also a formidable swordswoman, capable of overpowering Kirito with just one hand.
3. Vassago Casals (PoH)
Vassago Casals, also known as PoH, is a recurring antagonist introduced in the Aincrad arc. He is a key member of the guild known as the Laughing Coffin. PoH is known for his ruthless nature and has committed many heinous acts for his own satisfaction.
He is a formidable opponent, utilizing a powerful weapon called Mate Chopper.
2. Gabriel Miller
Ranked second on this list is Gabriel Miller, introduced in Gun Gale Online (GGO) as Subtilizer. He later descends into the Underworld during Project Alicization, where he becomes the ruler of Vecta.
After Vecta’s defeat, Gabriel re-enters the scene using the Subtilizer account. He battles Kirito and ultimately faces defeat, marking his significant role in the series.
1. Kirigaya Kazuto (Kirito)
Kirigaya Kazuto, commonly known as Kirito, is the strongest character throughout the Sword Art Online franchise. He is a well-known player who has excelled in various online games, beginning with Sword Art Online and later appearing in ALfheim Online, Gun Gale Online, and UnderWorld.
Kirito’s adaptability and unique ability to dual-wield swords make him a formidable player. He is known as the “Black Swordsman,” taking on challenges solo and overcoming challenges that others cannot.
