Accel World fans have been waiting for over a decade for the second season of the popular sci-fi anime. While no official announcement has been made yet, recent developments suggest that the series may still have a future. Here’s everything we know about a potential Accel World Season 2, along with a prediction for when (or if) it might arrive.
Release Date Prediction
As of now, Accel World Season 2 hasn’t been confirmed. The first season aired in 2012, followed by the movie Accel World: Infinite Burst in 2016. Since then, there has been little news about a continuation, but new information could hint at a future for the series.
A major clue comes from the ongoing light novel series by Reki Kawahara, which has continued well beyond the anime. In March 2024, it was announced that Accel World‘s light novels would reach their climax with the next volume. (via AnimeNewsNetwork)
This development could mean that the story is nearing its conclusion, which would provide a natural point for the anime adaptation to resume, possibly after the light novels wrap up. If a new season does get greenlit, it’s possible that we could see a release by 2026 or 2027, depending on the production timeline.
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Production Status
There hasn’t been much movement on the production side of Accel World since the 2016 movie. However, it’s worth noting that Sunrise, the studio behind Accel World, has been focused on other major projects, such as Gundam and Love Live!
Still, Sunrise has a history of reviving older properties—Code Geass being a prime example—which leaves the door open for Accel World to make a comeback. Moreover, Kawahara’s other major work, Sword Art Online and it’s spin-off Gun Gale Online, has seen continuous anime adaptations, taking up much of the spotlight.
At a panel during Anime Expo, Kawahara himself mentioned that his priority was Sword Art Online, though he remains passionate about Accel World. (via r/anime) Once Sword Art Online wraps up its final arcs, it’s possible the focus could shift back to Accel World.
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Plot Expectations
If Accel World Season 2 becomes a reality, it will likely continue adapting the light novels, picking up where Season 1 left off. The first season adapted volumes 1 through 4 of the light novels, as well as part of volume 10. A second season would likely cover volumes 5 through 9, focusing on The Sixth Chrome Disaster arc.
This arc delves deeper into the mystery of the Brain Burst program and introduces intense new challenges for Haruyuki and Kuroyukihime. The Chrome Disaster, a powerful and corrupted Burst Linker, threatens the peace within the Accelerated World, setting the stage for high-stakes battles and new alliances.
Fans can expect Haruyuki to face tougher opponents and grow as a Burst Linker, all while his relationships with Kuroyukihime and the other members of Nega Nebulus continue to develop.
With over 27 volumes of source material, Accel World has more than enough content to continue beyond just one more season. The Hermes Cord Race arc, in volume 5, would be a natural starting point for Season 2 before moving onto the main dish, The Sixth Chrome Disaster arc, which would make a perfect 25-episode season.
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The Popularity Factor
One question often raised is whether Accel World is popular enough to justify a second season. Back in 2012, during its original run, Accel World was a hit, ranking high in fan polls like Biglobe’s “Most Popular Spring Anime” list. (via AnimeNewsNetwork)
Although over a decade has passed, the fan base remains loyal, as evidenced by ongoing discussions and active communities on platforms like MyAnimeList and Reddit dedicated to the series. Additionally, the official Twitter account boasts over 60,000 followers, demonstrating a healthy and engaged fan base.
Both Reki Kawahara and director Masakazu Obara have expressed their love for the series in past interviews, leaving the door open for a potential return. Kawahara himself has shared that Accel World was one of his first major works and holds a special place for him, hinting that he would like to continue its story in anime form.
Will It Happen?
While Accel World Season 2 hasn’t been confirmed, the ongoing light novels, the upcoming climax, and the studio’s history of reviving older franchises all point to the possibility that the series could return. If production were to start after the light novels wrap up, we could expect new episodes by 2026 or 2027.
Final Thoughts
Even after a long wait, Accel World still holds a strong place within the anime community, and the possibility of a second season remains alive. The story’s ongoing progress in the light novels, combined with fan interest and the increasing trend of reviving older anime properties, suggests we might finally see Haruyuki and Kuroyukihime return to the screen.
Are you still holding out hope for Accel World Season 2? Which arc are you most excited to see animated? Let us know!