Based on a popular light novel series by Reki Kawahara, Sword Art Online takes place in the near-future of 2022, where virtual reality videogames have progressed to the point of being nearly indistinguishable from reality. The first major release is - you guessed it - Sword Art Online, a virtual reality MMORPG that requires the use of special equipment called 'Nerve Gear' (which simulates all five senses IN THE VIDEOGAME - think the Oculus Rift except seriously upgraded)