Sword Art Online has been an immensely popular light novel since it first came out. But during the anime adaptation, the series hit a roadblock and posed a unique challenge to author, Reki Kawahara.
The story-telling in the light novel was episodic and had chronological cut-offs at multiple points. While the readers loved the pacing, turning the work into a 25-minute episode was turning out to be a herculean task for the production team. Naturally, they requested him to expand his story for the anime.
New Stories Were Written to be Adapted Into Anime
The production teams usually take creative liberties in filling the gaps from the original sources, whether light novels or manga. The Sword Art Online production team wanted to stay authentic and not let the series feel fragmented.
Reki Kawahara stepped in as requested and worked his magic and fleshed out characters and scenes that were not focused upon in the main story. The author was inspired by his Seattle visit to be a member of the dub premiere panel. He said in his interview that supporting characters like Agil and Klein were unexpectedly popular.
I found out that Agil and Klein, the two male characters, are very popular here. So, I want to write some short stories based on these characters.
The author believed that the opinions of the audience should be respected and wrote short stories for the characters specifically to be added to the anime. By keeping in mind the screenplay, the adaptation team successfully bridged the gaps in the novel.
Kawahara Had a Hands-On Role in the Adaptation Process
Author Kawahara was working on the front lines during the adaptation, he attended script meetings weekly and oversaw the recording sessions. He made sure each term and setting was used as intended.
Kawahara took time out of his busy schedule to make sure that there were no major deviations from the source material. The author was working on Accel World at the time. Writing new material for Sword Art Online and finishing Accel World at the same time proved difficult, according to Kawahara.
I have a hard time changing my mind from SAO to Accel World, Accel World to SAO
Despite these hurdles, the author worked hard to ensure that the fans got content of the highest quality possible. The collaboration between Kawahara and the production team of the anime resulted in a richer, more immersive adaptation.
Sword Art Online Became Successful Due to the Fans’ Feedback
By fleshing out supporting characters like Agil and Klein, who appealed to a huge chunk of the fan community, the anime became more engaging for the audience; it felt more complete than the novel. This approach satisfied both the light novel fans and the audience of the animated work.
The anime, Sword Art Online’s popularity is hinged upon the overarching efforts of all the members involved in the adaptation. This success story depicts the importance of collaboration between the creators and the adaptation teams.
Kawahara’s willingness to embrace fan feedback and actively contribute to the process elevated the series beyond its original format. His dedication ensures that Sword Art Online continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
