After the closure of the massively popular virtual reality MMORPG 'The World,' its successor, The World R:2, was launched. On his inaugural day, rookie Haseo believes he has found companions to team up with for quests. Yet, in a cruel twist, they simply eliminate his avatar for amusement. Fortunately, he is rescued by the enigmatic one‑armed player Ovan, who offers to guide him through the realm.
Together with Ovan and his priest friend Shino, Haseo enjoys a blissful first year in the game. That serenity shatters when Shino"s avatar is slain by the infamous Tri‑Edge, a figure whose victims have all entered comas in reality. Enraged, Haseo swears to hunt down and defeat the elusive Tri‑Edge.
Set during Haseo"s first year in The World, .hack//Roots follows the bonds he forged before Tri‑Edge tore them apart. The narrative delves into the trials and triumphs of these friendships, painting a vivid portrait of camaraderie in an unforgiving digital landscape.