SAO Kirito Sword Evolution: From Aincrad to Underworld

Kirito is more than just the Black Swordsman of Sword Art Online — he’s the face of one of anime’s most iconic isekai series. Throughout the many arcs of SAO, one thing has remained consistent: his relationship with his swords. From his first iron blade in Aincrad to the god-tier weapons he wields in Underworld, Kirito’s sword evolution mirrors his growth as both a warrior and a character.

In this blog, we’re diving into Kirito’s full sword journey — exploring each of his main weapons, what made them special, and how they shaped his role in the virtual and real worlds. If you're a fan of SAO swords, this is your ultimate guide to every legendary blade Kirito has wielded from Aincrad to Underworld.

The Origins: Aincrad and the First Blades

Kirito’s journey as a swordsman began in the death game of Aincrad. Early in the Sword Art Online series, Kirito used generic weapons to survive, but his combat style and solo-play mentality quickly led him to seek stronger and more personalized gear.

The first weapon that stood out during this arc was the Anneal Blade. While not unique, it was among the best early-game weapons and served Kirito well in the lower floors. But once he proved himself, he leveled up his arsenal in a major way.

The Elucidator: The Black Blade of Aincrad

Kirito’s signature weapon in Aincrad is without a doubt the Elucidator. This jet-black longsword became synonymous with Kirito’s identity and fighting style. Dropped by a boss on the 50th floor, the Elucidator is powerful, sleek, and ideal for Kirito’s agile, one-handed combat technique.

It’s also the sword he uses in combination with his second blade during the Dual Wielding episodes — one of the most unforgettable moments in the entire anime. The Elucidator represents the first time viewers saw Kirito truly take on the mantle of the legendary Black Swordsman. Stylish, deadly, and mysterious — just like its wielder.

The Dark Repulser: Forged for a Hero

If Elucidator is Kirito’s Yin, the Dark Repulser is his Yang. This icy teal blade was forged by Lisbeth, one of Kirito’s closest friends, using a Crystallite Ingot found in a dragon’s nest. The scene where Lisbeth creates the sword is iconic in SAO lore, not just for the weapon, but for the emotional connection behind it.

The Dark Repulser was created specifically for Dual Blades, a unique skill only Kirito possessed in Aincrad. When wielded together with Elucidator, the pair of swords became Kirito’s ultimate weapon combo, showcased in his battle against The Gleam Eyes. This moment solidified him as the strongest solo player in Aincrad — and in the hearts of many SAO fans.

Excalibur: The Holy Sword of Alfheim

In ALfheim Online, Kirito trades his grounded Aincrad-style for a more fantasy-driven look, including wings, flight, and magic. But he doesn’t abandon his swordplay — far from it. During the Excalibur arc, he earns the legendary Holy Sword Excalibur by completing a difficult dungeon beneath the World Tree.

Unlike the Elucidator or Dark Repulser, Excalibur is a two-handed weapon with incredible attack power and lore significance. It is said to be the strongest weapon in Alfheim and is deeply tied to the Norse mythology of that world. Kirito even manages to dual-wield it during moments of extreme need. While it's not his primary weapon long-term, its presence in his arsenal marks his elevated status as a top-tier player across multiple VRMMOs.

Night Sky Sword: The Blade of the Underworld

Enter Alicization and War of Underworld — a major shift in SAO’s tone, worldbuilding, and Kirito’s weapons. In this arc, Kirito is trapped in the Underworld, a highly advanced virtual realm designed by Rath. Here, he doesn’t carry over Elucidator or Excalibur. Instead, he gains the Night Sky Sword — arguably the most powerful and emotionally resonant sword in the entire series.

Forged from a Gigas Cedar, the Night Sky Sword was crafted by Ronie and Tiese under Eugeo’s watch. It is one of the twin swords created from the two sacred trees, with the other becoming the Blue Rose Sword. The Night Sky Sword is black with glowing violet runes and matches Kirito’s personality perfectly — calm, silent, and deadly.

What makes it even more special is that it reflects Kirito’s emotional state and growth during Alicization. It's not just a weapon — it's a symbol of his connection to Eugeo, his resilience, and his will to protect the world.

Dual Wielding in the Underworld: Night Sky + Blue Rose Sword

Though Kirito primarily uses the Night Sky Sword in the Underworld, he temporarily wields both his and Eugeo’s swords — a nod to the Dual Wielding days of Aincrad. With the Blue Rose Sword in one hand and the Night Sky Sword in the other, Kirito channels the strength of his fallen friend to deliver devastating attacks during the climactic final battle against Gabriel.

This emotional fusion of two story arcs — Aincrad’s sword style and Alicization’s character depth — marks the pinnacle of Kirito’s sword evolution. It’s not just about being strong anymore. It’s about legacy, memory, and fighting for something bigger than himself.

The Evolution of Kirito’s Swords: More Than Just Weapons

Looking back, the Kirito sword evolution is more than just a trail of stronger weapons. Each blade represents a different version of Kirito. The Elucidator stands for independence and raw skill. The Dark Repulser represents friendship and trust. Excalibur reflects glory and achievement. The Night Sky Sword embodies love, loss, and emotional growth. And when dual-wielded with Eugeo’s sword, Kirito becomes not just a fighter — but a living memory of everyone he’s ever fought beside.

These weapons are not upgrades. They’re milestones in his emotional and spiritual journey.

Final Thoughts: Why Kirito’s Sword Journey Matters

In most anime, weapons are tools. In Sword Art Online, Kirito’s swords are reflections of his soul. They change and evolve as he does. They carry emotional weight, character arcs, and legendary status within the virtual worlds he inhabits.

Whether you admire the clean edge of the Elucidator or the mythic glow of the Night Sky Sword, one thing is clear — no discussion of SAO is complete without recognizing how essential each Kirito sword is to the story. From Aincrad to Underworld, his blades tell a tale of growth, struggle, and connection.

And that’s what makes Kirito’s sword evolution not just impressive — but unforgettable.