Originally scheduled for release on May 22, 2020, Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris has been delayed until July 2020. The delay comes as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and difficulties faced in production, distribution and development of the title.
Described by Bandai Namco as a faithful adaptation of the anime series, Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris follows the events of;
Sword Art Online: Alicization anime series, Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris finds Kirito in a mysterious but familiar virtual world, “Underworld,” where A.I.s behave like humans. As players take control of Kirito, they will relive heart-pounding scenes from the series through intense combat. Players will also encounter fan-favourite characters including Eugeo, Alice, Administrator, and many more.
The anime premiered in October in Japan and is an adaptation of the original novels.
Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris
Yosuke Futami, executive producer said;
We have been working hard on SWORD ART ONLINE: ALICIZATION LYCORIS for our fans who are looking forward to the next SWORD ART ONLINE title.
Due to the ongoing world events, we have made the difficult decision to move the release date of SWORD ART ONLINE: ALICIZATION LYCORIS to July 10th, 2020. We believe that this is the best way to ensure that our fans are delivered with the best SWORD ART ONLINE: ALICIZATION LYCORIS experience.
Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris will launch for PC, PS4 and Xbox One on July 10, 2020.
