The new Sword Art Online game will have a difficulty mode inherited from the old Diablo titles

Bandai Namco has generated great anticipation among JRPG fans with the announcement of Echoes of Aincrad, a new title based on the popular Sword Art Online universe, developed by Game Studio Inc. Its release is scheduled for July 10 and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series.

This new game promises to offer a fresh and exciting experience, allowing players to create their own protagonist with customized skills and equipment, which sets it apart from other titles in the franchise that have maintained predefined characters.

If you die once, you will have to start over from scratch

One of the highlights of Echoes of Aincrad is its challenging Death Game Mode, which introduces the permadeath mechanic. In this mode, players who suffer a defeat will have their character and save file deleted.

This mode will not be available from the start; it can only be unlocked after completing the main story or by purchasing the Ultimate Edition. With this decision, the developers align with the narrative of the original Sword Art Online, where death in the game has fatal consequences in real life.

Players will have three save slots; however, the hardest game mode can only be experienced through the second and third playthroughs, preventing the use of the first save file. This feature has sparked the interest of fans looking for a more intense and challenging experience, similar to Hardcore mode in other titles, such as Diablo.

In addition, the game will offer an enhanced main campaign filled with secrets and side activities, allowing players to explore the vast world of Aincrad in their own way. With its combination of creative freedom and exciting challenges, Echoes of Aincrad promises to become a new benchmark within the JRPG genre. The gaming community is eagerly awaiting July 10 to dive into this epic adventure.

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