Summary
2024 is turning out to be the year of comebacks, as series that stopped airing years ago are making comebacks with new seasons or remakes.
Fans ofSword Art Onlineparticularly have a lot to be excited about, as this fall, the second season ofSword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online(GGO) is finally set to air, marking the return of the popular battle-royale-style spin-off. With its fast-paced action, unique characters, and gripping storyline, this new season promises to build on the intense momentum of the first.
A Return to the Battlefield: Season Two Overview
After six years since its first season aired in Spring 2018,Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Onlinereturns to screens on June 19, 2025. Season one adapted the first three volumes of Keiichi Sigsawa’s light novel series, which introduced fans to the world of Gun Gale Online. The story follows Karen Kohiruimaki, a university student who, due to her insecurities about her height, escapes into the virtual world of GGO as her avatar LLENN—a petite, pink-clad player known for her deadly precision.
In this upcoming season, fans can expect more of LLENN’s tactical brilliance as she takes on even more challenging foes in the game’s battle-royale setting. The trailer for the new season highlights action-packed sequences and LLENN facing off against a host of new and returning enemies, promising an adrenaline-fueled continuation of her journey.
Which Arc Will Gun Gale Online Adapt?
While the first season adaptedthe initial three volumes of Keiichi Sigsawa’s light novel, the second season is expected to continue from volume 4 onward, exploring new arcs from the Gun Gale Online story.
Although specific details of the new arc have not been confirmed, the trailer hints at an expansion of the Squad Jam tournament format that was featured prominently in season one. LLENN’s rivalry with Pitohui, by the looks of it, is set to deepen, alongside a new set of challenges in the competitive virtual environment.
Key Staff and Cast: Talented Veterans Return
Director and Creative Team
Much of the original creative team behind season one returns for this new chapter, ensuring consistency in the show’s tone and quality.Masayuki Sakoi, known for his work onShinchou YuushaandA3!, resumes his directorial role. Sakoi’s expertise in handling action-packed narratives with strong character development will no doubt play a key role in bringing the high-stakes world of GGO back to life.
Also returning is Yousuke Kuroda, who handles series composition. With a portfolio that includes fan-favorite shows likeJormungandandMy Hero Academia, Kuroda is no stranger to blending intense action with layered storytelling, which fans can look forward to in this new season. Yoshio Kozakai, who serves as the character designer and chief animation director, ensures the dynamic art style is both visually appealing and true to the source material. His work on shows likeFire Forceguarantees that viewers can expect top-tier animation once again.
Voice Cast
As for the voice cast for season 2, fans will be thrilled to know that most of the original cast is returning, despite the long gap between seasons.
Pitohui
Where to Watch Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online II
Fans across the globe won’t have to wait long to catch the latest episodes.Sword Art OnlineAlternative: Gun Gale Online IIwill begin airing on Jul 03, 2025 (globally) with its official release time at 24:00 JST (June 23, 2025, 12:00 AM JST). In Japan, the series will air on a number of local channels, including Tokyo MX, Tochigi TV, Gunma TV, and BS11, before expanding to MBS, TV Aichi, and AT-X on later dates.
For international audiences, Crunchyroll has secured the streaming rights and will simulcast English-subtitled episodes for global viewers. The series will also be available on ABEMA, offering an alternative streaming option. Given the show’s loyal fanbase and its past success, GGO II is poised to become one of the standout titles of the fall anime season.
What to Expect from the Animation and Visuals
As expected, the animation quality is top-notch. The trailer, released at Aniplex Online Fest 2024, showcased high-speed action sequences, fluid animation, and detailed character movements. Studio 3Hz, known for its work on visually rich series likeFlip Flappers, continues to helm the animation, bringing a crisp, dynamic look to the gun-slinging battles of GGO.
Thekey visual for the season features LLENN, M, and Pitohui front and center, all geared up and ready for battle. The prominent display of these three core characters hints at a strong focus on their intertwined fates in the upcoming episodes. Fukaziroh and Clarence are also seen in the visual, each wielding their signature weapons, further cementing the idea that the action will be fast-paced and deadly.
With the promise of more tactical, fast-paced action, high-stakes tournament battles, and continued character development,Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online IIis shaping up to be an unmissable entry in the fall 2024 anime lineup. Fans of the originalSword Art Onlineseries, as well as battle royale enthusiasts, will find plenty to enjoy in this new season. Whether tuning in for the thrilling gunfights, the strategic gameplay, or the characters' evolving relationships, this season of GGO is guaranteed to deliver.
