Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Scherzo of Deep Night

In 2022, Akihiko Kayaba develops the VRMMORPG named Sword Art Online, introducing players to an immersive virtual reality experience. The NerveGear, a revolutionary device, allows users to control their in-game avatars with their minds, eliminating the need for physical movement.

Prior to the official launch, beta testers explore the game's mechanics and face challenges, including battles against a floor boss. During this time, a mysterious player unexpectedly delivers the final hit on the boss, showcasing their skill and raising intrigue among the testers.

On November 6, 2022, 10,000 players log into Sword Art Online, only to realize they cannot log out. Akihiko Kayaba reveals the shocking truth that they must conquer all 100 floors of Aincrad to escape, leading to widespread panic among the players.

Asuna, initially logging into SAO to enjoy the game with her friend Mito, grapples with the grim reality of being trapped. Despite her distress, Mito, being a beta tester, supports Asuna in quickly leveling up.

Deep in a cave, Asuna and Mito stumble upon a treasure chest that appears tempting but is likely a trap. They witness players succumb to a swarm of monsters after opening the chest, leaving Asuna deeply shaken and cautious about future encounters.

While combating a plant-based monster known as nepenthes, Asuna inadvertently triggers an attack by other nepenthes. This incident forces Mito to disband their party in a desperate attempt to save Asuna, resulting in dangerous situations and an emotional setback for Asuna.

After a traumatic day in the game, Asuna experiences a vivid nightmare where she believes she has returned to the real world. However, the haunting memory of Mito's message leads her to awaken to the painful reality of their ongoing struggle in SAO.

On November 27, 2022, Asuna resolves to fight for her survival in the game. She begins a rigorous training regimen, aiming to become stronger despite the risk of death looming in the game.

Asuna encounters Kirito in the cave where she trains. He drags her out, insisting she needs rest and inviting her to participate in a group meeting to prepare for the first floor boss battle.

In a town meeting organized by player Diabel, strategies are laid out to defeat the first floor boss, Illfang the Kobold Lord. Tensions rise as players blame the beta testers for previous deaths, but hopes remain for a united effort to conquer the boss.

The group faces off against Illfang and his minions in an intense battle. As Diabel falls in combat, he urges Kirito to defeat the boss, igniting a fierce determination among the remaining players.

After an arduous battle, Kirito defeats Illfang, leading to a moment of celebration. However, he soon faces accusations of being a 'beater', a label that he accepts to protect the beta testers, amid rising tensions in the player community.

Following the battle, Mito apologizes to Asuna for her earlier actions, desiring to resume their alliance. Asuna, however, declines, having found her own path alongside Kirito, marking a turning point in her journey.

As Asuna joins Kirito, they officially transition to the second floor of SAO together. This marks a new chapter in their adventure, hinting at the challenges and dangers that lie ahead.