.hack//Roots

Synopsis

Continues the story of .hack//Sign

In the MMORPG known as The World, a wavemaster named Tsukasa awakens with fragmented memories, uncertain of what he did before appearing in the game. Accused of hacking by the Crimson Knights due to his connection with a modified cat-like avatar, Tsukasa finds himself unable to leave the virtual realm. As he explores the digital landscape searching for answers, he must evade the scrutiny of the knights and the suspicions of other players he encounters. Throughout his journey in The World, Tsukasa discovers a mystical artifact that takes the form of a "guardian," promising to protect him from harm. Meanwhile, Subaru, the leader of the Crimson Knights, along with other players who have become acquainted with Tsukasa, set out to uncover the reason behind his inability to log out and prevent the situation from worsening.

In this installment

After the massive MMORPG The World was shut down, its follow-up, The World R:2, launches. Joining as a fresh player, Haseo encounters what he believes will be allies, but they murder his avatar for entertainment. He is rescued by Ovan, a mysterious player missing one arm, who becomes his mentor. Throughout a happy first year, Haseo grows close to Ovan and Shino, a cleric. Their calm is broken when Tri-Edge, a malicious player infamous for causing victims to fall into comas in reality, defeats Shino's character. Consumed by rage, Haseo promises to hunt down and destroy Tri-Edge. Taking place during Haseo's initial days in The World, .hack//Roots examines the bonds he forms before Tri-Edge shatters them.