Bandai Namco just recently released new information of "Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization" introducing confirmed character Kizmel, new story information, gameplay mechanics, a mysterious character named Richter, and information about the game's 2016 major update.
According to Gematsu, the new character Kizmel is dark elf swordswoman who protects the woods. As a special quest NPC, she has another encounter with Kirito and Asuna. She wields a one-handed, curved sword and fights to protect her friends.
The new story was also revealed featuring a new death game, per Banda Namco release. In "Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization", Kirito notices that an NPC he knows is no longer there. Kirito gets an uncomfortable feeling. After, when speaking with the information dealer Argo, Kirito learns of the truths hidden within this game.
When an NPC dies, they aren't resurrected, rather an entirely different character appears. All of the NPCs in "Sword Art: Origin" have their own unique settings and A.I. In other words, there are no replacements, as they are unique existences in this world.
The game also feature a new gameplay mechanics called Sword Kill Connect. In this gameplay, Sword Skills can be linked together under specific conditions, shortening the skills' commitment window. Since battles without breaks between attacks are possible, you should continue to link your Sword Skills via Sword Connect.
However, the one fans are really curious about is the new character named Richter. He seems to be an acquaintance of Sinon but Sinon's reaction and facial expression are not reassuring. Additionally, he refers to Kirito as the Black Swordsman which is weird since that is Kirito's name in the original "Sword Art Online". It is safe to assume, however, that he could be serving a deeper purpose in the game.
Lastly, a free major update tentatively titled "Fighters of the Blue Sky" will be released by the end of 2016 that adds story volume of approximately 20 hours of gameplay. Under this major update, additional characters Seven and Rain from "Sword Art Online: Lost Song" are added plus new additions to the current game story and map.
Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization will be released for PlayStation 4 and PS Vita on Oct. 27 in Japan, and November 8 in North America and Europe. In North America, the PS Vita release will be digital-only.
