Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment Coming to North America

[Andromeda]

In a surprise announcement that many SAO fans hoped for, but doubted, Namco Bandai will be bringing Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment for the PS Vita for North America. Previously, importers were excited over the news that the Taiwanese version of the game would have English subtitles, making very import friendly. The current popularity for Sword Art Online is likely part of the reason for Namco Bandai's willing to take a chance on the game.

They have said it is going to be a digital version only, but there is still time until it's Summer release that it may change to a retail release as well. However, the uncertainty of the game's success is likely the reason for the digital only move.

The game will replay Kirito's travels through Aincrad through an alternate setting that was started by Infinity Moment, in which a bug prevents the players from being logged out after Kirito manages to clear the game. Like the previous game, many of the characters from the series of stories will appear in the game, despite never being present in the actual story. There is also a new character original to the game that will be one of the focal points for the story.

In addition to being a RPG, there will be dating sim elements where Kirito will be able to date and spend time with many of the female characters through the series. There also looks to be limited customization of Kirito's avatar.

Source: http://www.siliconera.com/2014/04/22...merica-summer/