In the ever-evolving world of virtual reality MMORPGs, Sword Art Online(SAO) has been the most popular anime based on VR gaming as of now. Keeping the critics aside, it has been a paragon of storytelling and gaming innovation. But now, there’s a newcomer on the scene – Shangri La Frontier. Could this Japanese sensation be poised to follow in the footsteps of SAO and become the next big thing in the world of gaming?
Shangri La Frontier: What is it about?
A unique gaming experience
Shangri La Frontier, based on a Japanese light novel series by Ryosuke Takeuchi and illustrated by Tomori, has made a significant splash. It’s not only a novel and manga but has also been adapted into an anime series. The story revolves around Rakuro Hizutome, a gamer renowned for conquering even the most trashy and unfair games. However, when he enters Shangri La Frontier, he’s in for a real surprise.
Shangri La Frontier game
Shangri La Frontier is renowned for its brutal difficulty in the world of VRMMORPGs (Virtual Reality Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games). Rakuro aka Sunraku, initiates the game without even trying out the tutorials for the game. However, he soon realizes that his usual bag of tricks, exploiting the potholes and glitches, won’t suffice here. Instead, he must rely on his gaming skills and deep knowledge of the game to navigate its formidable challenges.
A vibrant cast
As Rakuro sets off on his journey, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each adding fun to the his gaming experience. These include the Rei Saiga aka Psyger-0, a formidable force in the game with a profound understanding of its gameplay. Amane Towa, who lends her skills to the group, and the mischievous yet helpful rabbit, Emuru, adds a playful element to their adventures.
How is it similar to Sword Art Online
Shangri La Frontier shares several notable similarities with Sword Art Online:
- VRMMORPG Setting: Both titles are set in the immersive worlds of VRMMORPGs, enabling players to fully immerse themselves in fantastical world.
- Strong protagonists: Rakuro Hizutome, much like Kirito in SAO, embodies a strong protagonist archetype. Both are exceptionally skilled gamers, driven to overcome formidable challenges.
- Life-and-death stakes: In both SLF and SAO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Players face real-life consequences for their in-game actions, adding a thrilling dimension to their adventures.
What makes it different?
- A lighter tone: SLF differentiates itself by maintaining a more lighthearted and fun tone compared to the darker aspects of Sword Art Online. While still featuring high-stakes gameplay, it embraces the joy and excitement of gaming.
- Gameplay and mechanics: The game mechanics in this anime are more detailed, offering a greater variety of activities for players. This emphasis on gameplay deepens the gaming experience.
- Diversity in character: It boasts a more diverse and vibrant cast of characters than SAO, including a significant presence of female characters and a wider range of backgrounds.
Conclusion
So, is Shangri La Frontier destined to be the next Sword Art Online? While it exhibits the essential ingredients of a successful VRMMORPG anime – a gripping story, a formidable protagonist, a diverse character ensemble, and high-stakes gameplay – only time will tell if it can reach the same level of popularity. Nevertheless, for fans of VRMMORPG anime, Shangri La Frontier is an exciting contender to keep an eye on.
If you love Shangri La Frontier, subscribe to Spielanime Newsletter to stay updated.