Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online [Season 2]

Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online Season 2 – A Nostalgic but Underwhelming Return

Six years after its debut, Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online (GGO) is back with Season 2, and fans are split on whether the wait was worth it. Produced by Egg Firm and animated by studio 3Hz, the series picks up in the virtual world of Gun Gale Online, where players battle in high-stakes tournaments. But while the first season won praise for its intense gunfights and Karen Kohiruimaki’s (aka Llenn) journey from shy outsider to skilled sniper, Season 2 struggles to recapture that magic.

The premiere episode dives straight into a new tournament, the “Battle Jam,” with little fanfare. For long-time viewers, this is a double-edged sword. “Decent first episode,” one fan notes, “but I was a little confused since it’s been a LONG time since I’ve watched the first season.” Another adds, “I expected more build-up to a tournament, but instead, we’re just jumping right in.” The lack of a recap leaves newcomers and lapsed fans alike scrambling to recall key details—like why Llenn’s pink-themed arsenal is iconic or the rivalry between her and the explosive Pitohui.

Visually, the animation holds up, with studio 3Hz delivering crisp gunplay and vibrant VR landscapes. Yet the pacing feels off. “Introduction is ok, a little boring,” a viewer comments, pointing to the episode’s heavy dialogue and slow setup. The tournament’s stakes also feel muted early on: “I don’t really care about who the winner ends up being right now,” admits another fan, highlighting a lack of emotional investment in the new competitors.

For die-hard GGO fans, though, the return is a nostalgic treat. “Best SAO is finally back,” declares one enthusiast, referencing GGO’s reputation as a standout spin-off. Tons of old faces—including Fukaziroh and M—reignite rivalries, and small moments like Llenn’s confused “I have no idea” about a grenade add charm. “It’s nostalgic to see Llenn, Pitohui, and the other characters,” a long-time viewer says, “and the next group battle is already starting now.”

Critics, however, question the season’s purpose. “The first season felt pretty complete,” argues a fan, noting that Karen’s arc—overcoming her insecurities through GGO—seemed resolved. The absence of SAO’s main characters (Kirito, Asuna) also irks some: “Selling the series as GGO II is silly when all the heavy hitters from the original are absent,” one detractor laments. “It’s like swapping out the Mona Lisa with Donald Duck.”

Despite mixed reviews, there’s cautious optimism. “I actually almost forgot about the story of GGO,” a viewer admits, “but it’s still enjoyable to watch.” Others hope the tournament will gain momentum: “I expected some big plot twist, but it looks like they’re simply starting another tournament with a similar line-up. Which doesn’t have to be bad—can just be a chill arc for all I care.”

In the end, GGO Season 2 is a love letter to its core fanbase. If you’re craving more of Llenn’s sniping skills and the thrill of virtual combat, there’s fun to be had. But for casual viewers or those expecting a fresh narrative, it might feel like a retread. As one fan sums it up: “A decent start… but I’m not sure if it’s enough to keep me hooked.”

Final Verdict: 6/10 – A nostalgic but underwhelming return that relies too much on past glory. Stick around if you’re a GGO die-hard, but newcomers may want to revisit Season 1 first.