'Sword Art Online Alicization' Latest News, Spoilers & Update: Creator Defends Cutting Zakkaria Arc, ‘It Was Necessary’

“Sword Art Online Alicization,” in a rather interesting turn of events, has been doing quite well in bringing fans of various types together in thinking that this is the best installment yet. However, episode 7 caused some issues among viewers, especially those who read the light novels. The issues pertained to the decision to skip over the Zakkaria arc, with the creator saying that it was necessary.

In a post over at Reddit, the creator of “Sword Art Online Alicization,” Reki Kawahara defended the decision to cut that part out of the anime. Of course, fans would likely be aware that adaptations always need to make such cuts in order to make the story work. However, an explanation still needed to be made for such a huge omission.

“I'm sorry that the Zakkaria Arc was handled through flashback only, but it is necessary to be selective with episodes even though the season is 4 cours as there are 10 books [to adapt],” the explanation reads.

“I think 2 books per cour is the limit if you want to do the adaptation faithfully, but I think Zakkaria was the biggest cut.”

For those who might be wondering, the cut content involved a tournament that Kirito and Eugeo joined that then led to them being able to attend the school of swordsmanship where they are now. By cutting the content, a full two years had passed between episode 5 and 7 of “Sword Art Online Alicization.” The cut also included an important character who might be introduced in a different manner later on.

It’s worth pointing out that when it comes to adaptations, there are always going to be differences that will likely make the story seem different to viewers. The same holds true for “Sword Art Online Alicization,” as it does for every other light novel.