After a year-long hiatus, the action RPG (ARPG) Sword Art Online: Variant Showdown is making a triumphant return. Initially pulled from launch to address several issues, the game is now back with exciting new features, a revamped user interface, and much more!

Originally, Sword Art Online: Variant Showdown enjoyed a successful release, but the decision to withdraw it from storefronts was unexpected. However, fans of the hit anime series can now rejoice as the game returns today, ready for players to dive back into the immersive world of Sword Art Online.

For those unfamiliar, Sword Art Online: Variant Showdown is based on the popular anime where protagonist Kirito and other players find themselves trapped in the full-dive VR game, Sword Art Online. The 3D ARPG follows the series' storyline, featuring a roster of characters battling formidable bosses and enemies throughout their journey.

So, what's new in this re-release? Players can now team up in groups of three for multiplayer battles, taking on powerful bosses to earn rare rewards. Additionally, armor items are now available as rewards from stages, with higher grades awarded based on difficulty levels. Perhaps most excitingly, the main story is now fully voiced, enhancing the immersive experience.

The decision to pull Sword Art Online: Variant Showdown from release was initially met with mixed reactions. While the new additions are certainly intriguing, there's a slight skepticism about whether they'll be enough to win back the player base. First impressions are crucial, but for die-hard fans of the series and Kirito's adventures, this return is undoubtedly a welcome one.

If you're a fan of anime-inspired mobile ARPGs, puzzlers, or similar genres, there's no shortage of options to explore. Why not take a look at our list of the top 15 best anime games, inspired by or similar to this beloved animation medium?