For the VRMMORPG element:
* Log Horizon: A group of players are trapped in a virtual world, but instead of a life-or-death situation, they try to build a new life and society within the game.
* Accel World: Another VRMMORPG setting where players compete in high-speed battles, but this one has a more lighthearted and comedic tone.
* Overlord: A powerful player finds himself trapped in a VRMMORPG world after its shutdown, where he commands a powerful army of NPCs.
* Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online: A spin-off focused on the Gun Gale Online game from SAO, featuring a new protagonist who excels in ranged combat.
* DanMachi: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?: A dungeon-crawling anime that focuses on the camaraderie of adventurers in a fantasy world.
For the action and adventure:
* Fate/Zero: A dark and intense fantasy anime about the Holy Grail War, a battle between powerful mages and their summoned servants.
* Attack on Titan: This post-apocalyptic series features humanity's fight for survival against giant, monstrous creatures called Titans.
* Black Clover: Two orphaned boys strive to become the Wizard King, with magic as their weapon in a world of magical knights and powerful adversaries.
For the romance and character development:
* Toradora!: A high school romance comedy with a similar focus on the characters' struggles and growth.
* Clannad: A heart-wrenching story of two high schoolers who form a bond that defies the challenges of life.
* Your Lie in April: A beautiful and emotionally powerful story about a talented pianist and a violinist who help each other find their passion and love.
For the darker themes and mature story:
* Psycho-Pass: A futuristic sci-fi anime that explores themes of justice, morality, and the nature of humanity.
* Steins;Gate: A time travel anime with a focus on the consequences of altering the past and the moral dilemmas that come with it.
* Neon Genesis Evangelion: A classic anime about a group of children who pilot giant robots to fight against monstrous creatures.
Ultimately, the best anime for you depends on what you enjoy most about Sword Art Online. Consider which elements are most appealing to you and explore the recommendations based on those. You might even find your new favorite anime!