Episode Rating: 9.5/10
This episode was another set up for the second arc of SAO.
It starts off by answering the cliff hanger at the end of episode 15 with the mysterious picture of Asuna (or at least we assumed it was). Kirito goes to Agil's bar and finds out that this picture was taken in Alfheim, the setting of the second arc ( its a new VRMMORPG). Agil tells Kirito that this picture was taken above the World Tree in Alfheim and Kirito confirms that this is indeed Asuna. The main objective of the game is actually to reach the top. Kirito decides to test out the game and try to rescue Asuna since that creep Sugou-kun is going to marry her while she's unconscious (I mean come on, how desperate is he?). He finds out that all the SAO parameters that are applicable in Alfheim were actually transmitted so he still has his high sword skills but even better.....YUI COMES BACK!!!!! He still has that crystal containing all her data and she comes back to help guide him in this new world (I thought that this was actually a very smart idea). He starts to learn the basics of the 9 tribes and the objective and of course....flying! Then he encounters a group of players fighting each other He goes in and helps the girl as it was 3 on 1 and he awesomely (if that's a word) demonstrates his strength (even though he was called a noob) and totally annihilates the first guy. That's where the episode ends.
As for the new arc, I originally thought it looked pretty dumb, however I must say that it seems to be turning out to be a really good world. With the addition of aviation abilities I can see how this would drastically change combat and I look forward to see as to how Kirito will adapt to this change.
Concerning the photo, there are still many questions that I am certain will be answered if the following 1 or 2 episodes. Such as, is that really Asuna and Why is she trapped in Alfheim. I am almost certain that these questions will be answered within the following 2 episodes.
From what I've seen from Sugu, I can see that she really cares about her brother and vice versa. I wonder how she would feel after she knew that he was back to using the Nerve Gear. I'm not sure as to whether or not she would openly accept it as she already lost her brother to it for almost 2 years.
I really like the idea that Yui is acting as Kirito's guide in this new game. This will really open up more chances to see their relationship again!
The ending I must say was very well done, I personally really enjoy it when the main character shows off a lot and owns everyone who looked down on them. This is exactly what happened at the end since his SAO skills transferred to Alfheim. I can't wait to see how he fairs with some of the stronger opponents in this game right now.
As for negative things about this episode, I really don't have much to say except for the fact that I don't like Kirito's new hair style but of course that is based on my own personal preference.
Overall, I would say that this episode effectively set up the audience for the second arc and that I can't wait for more!
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