Don't know why I've never written a review for this game, but it is definitely one of my favorites. Probably because I am a sucker for Create a Character [CaC] that actually inject you into your own story. By far my most favorite SAO game since all the rest you usually play solely as Kirito. I also love how all the previous "game only" characters from other SAO games do carry over into this one as well.

I will be the first to admit that there are definitely several cheesy 1-shot your dead enemies [mostly special/DLC bosses], but luckily most are not like that unless you have difficulty at maximum setting or just go in with no plan of attack. The companion AI can be dumb as ♥♥♥♥ at times, but if team is set up more to heal & buff, then they can at least be useful as distracting meat-shields for a bit.

It is important to remember that this is RPG (MMO simulator) first and a shooter second so don't expect a huge amount of depth on the shooter side...reminds me more of Mass Effect than say Call of Duty play style. It does cover the basics of having craftable/mod-able weapons & gear to all you to tweak between different playstyles

The story does have the corny anime "friends conquers all" mentality so probably not for those looking for a serious story, but fans of SAO or similar anime probably won't mind it.

Overall, I can recommend this for those looking for an anime story that doesn't take itself too seriously and a fast pace, 3rd person shooter.

Another one that I don't recommend at full price, but I feel is totally worth it on sale.

I really liked most of the characters & have to say the story in both games is enjoyable (as long as you like cliche anime style stories...don't expect any in-depth writing here.)

GER felt good with its 3 story arcs.

Fair warning that GE2RB is very grindy with all the missions it has more than GER & all the extra squad characters.

Definitely feel some missions/bosses were not play-tested as they have very cheap mechanics...but the ability to design custom bullets really helps to balance things. The AI companions really needed work, but with proper abilities slotted, could at least be useful as temporary meat-shields/distractions...definitely use your flares to blind targets when you need some breathing room.

Crafting & builds were diverse enough to keep interest, but in no way holds a candle to say Monster Hunter

Overall, get it cheap & you'll probably get a lot of bang for your buck in hours of play time. If you are someone you bores easily on repetitive missions or scoffs and anime style story-lines, then you'll probably want to stay away.