An astute teen, Yuuki Asuna spends most of her time studying for her high school entrance exams. One day, she borrows her brother's virtual reality game, 'Sword Art Online,' and finds herself trapped in its fantasy world. Soon, though, she learns the mechanics of the game, develops her swordplay technique and impresses a pro gamer who invites her to join the best players on the front lines. Is Asuna ready to swap her hard-earned education ethics for high-rank play in a virtual realm?