Sword Art Online is an action-adventure fantasy romance anime set in 2022 when virtual reality technology has progressed by leaps and bounds, and a massive online role-playing game called Sword Art Online (SAO) is launched within the virtual world of Aincrad. With the aid of "NerveGear" technology, players can control their avatars within the game using nothing but their own thoughts.
Sword Art Online has an impressively powerful cast of characters -- both physically and mentally -- that ranges from chivalrous knights and beast tamers to elemental fairies and skilled archers. However, mastering SAO takes much more than just raw strength; only an experienced player with the will to conquer all challenges and hone their skills can be crowned the most powerful of them all.
Based on strengths, weaknesses, and notable qualities, here is the strongest Sword Art Online character, and the feats that earned them that title.
Kirito Isn't SAO's Strongest Character, But He's Close
Before the strongest is revealed, it should be mentioned that Kazuto Kirigaya, nicknamed "Kirito," is an obvious choice, because his swordsmanship helped him survive as a solo player for the majority of the game. Kirito holds a strong resolve that motivates him to persevere through the many physical and mental challenges of the series. After spending 200 years in the Underworld during the Alicization arc, he was crowned The Star King and becomes powerful beyond recognition.
His durability, skill, and knowledge make him a daunting player, especially for those less resilient and forceful. Kirito also has the Sword Art Online equivalent of Dragon Ball Z's Omni-King's unlimited power. Regardless, there is another sensible choice for the top spot that many people overlook.
Why Asuna Is Sword Art Online's Strongest Character
Yuuki Asuna, known as Asuna, is the main heroine of the Sword Art Online series. She's somewhat proud and, despite her kind personality, she won't hesitate to get physical with those who challenge her authority or poke fun at her abilities. She even challenged Kirito to a duel after an argument over how to handle a Field Boss.
During Kirito's final duel with Heathcliff on the 75th Floor of Aincrad, she resisted her paralysis, jumped in front of Kirito, and took an attack that would have otherwise killed him. Although it results in her demise, Asuna proves she is not only physically capable, she also possesses an inner strength that far exceeds that of any other -- even Kirito.
In Mother's Rosario, the side story set between the Phantom Bullet and Alicization arcs, Asuna was given the Mother's Rosario by Yuuki Konno after defeating her in battle. It is an 11-hit Original Sword Skill (OSS), compiled by Yuuki, for any one-handed sword in New Alfheim Online, which allowed Asuna to defeat Kirito on one occasion.
What Are Asuna's Abilities & Weaknesses in SAO?
Some of Asuna's strengths lie in aspects of her character, ranging from physical attributes to personal traits. She is the former sub-leader of the frontline guild Knights of Blood. Her speed and proficiency with a rapier are so advanced that she has earned the moniker of "The Flash." Physical strength is superficial, however, so a lot of Asuna's strength lies in a metaphorical sense; she is mentally strong, especially as she was kidnapped and held prisoner for the majority of Alfhiem Online, during which she endured intense torture.
One of Asuna's biggest weaknesses is her reliance on Kirito. This seems to also be a major reason why Asuna is criticized so frequently. She often loses her status as an independent badass, having to rely on Kirito to help her, such as in the Fairy Dance arc when she was captured.
Asuna was also cursed with the most tragic female stereotype: emotional fragility. At first, she cried alone every night and had nightmares, but kept putting on a brave face, but when she met Kirito, she could afford to break down those walls. Asuna has a phobia of astral-type monsters, which limits her performance in battle, and had used numerous excuses to avoid clearing Labyrinths on horror-themed Aincrad floors.
Despite her weaknesses, Asuna is still the most powerful Sword Art Online for more reasons than just brute force and swordsmanship. She shows determination in the face of danger that is truly admirable, besides being an all-around badass.