Editing .hack//Sign

{{short description|2002 anime television series directed by Kōichi Mashimo}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2012}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name         = .hack//Sign
| image        = Hack-regular-6a.jpg
| caption      = Tsukasa (front), Aura (right), Subaru (left).
| genre        =[[isekai]], [[Adventure]], [[fantasy]]<ref>{{cite web |title=.hack // SIGN |url=https://www.funimation.com/shows/hacksign/ |publisher=[[Funimation]] |access-date=August 5, 2018}}</ref><!-- Genres should be based on what reliable sources list them as and not personal interpretations. Limit of the three most relevant genres in accordance with [[MOS:A&M]]. -->
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type         = tv series
| director     = [[Kōichi Mashimo]]
| producer     = 
| writer       = [[Kazunori Itō]]
| music        = [[Yuki Kajiura]]
| studio       = [[Bee Train]]
| licensee     = {{English anime licensee|AUS=[[Crunchyroll Store Australia|Madman Entertainment]]| EU = [[Beez Entertainment]] (former)|NA=[[Crunchyroll]]}}
| network      = [[TX Network|TXN]] ([[TV Tokyo]])
| network_en   = {{English anime network|CA = [[YTV (TV channel)|YTV]]|SEA= [[Animax|Animax Asia]]|US= [[Cartoon Network]] ([[Toonami]])|UK=[[AnimeCentral]]}}
| first        = April 4, 2002
| last         = September 25, 2002
| episodes     = 26
| episode_list = List of .hack//Sign episodes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type         = ova
| title        = .hack//Intermezzo, .hack//Unison, .hack//Gift
| director     = [[Kōichi Mashimo]]
| producer     = 
| writer       = 
| music        = 
| studio       = [[Bee Train]]
| first        = 2002
| last         = 2003
| runtime      = 
| episodes     = 3
| episode_list = List of .hack//Sign episodes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Other
| title        = Related works
| content      = 
* [[.hack (video game series)|''.hack'' video games]]
* ''[[.hack//Liminality]]''
* ''[[.hack//Legend of the Twilight]]''
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer}}

'''''.hack//Sign''''' (stylized as '''''.hack//SIGN''''') is a Japanese [[anime]] television series directed by [[Kōichi Mashimo]], and produced by studio [[Bee Train]] and [[Bandai Visual]], that makes up one of the four original storylines for the ''[[.hack]]'' franchise. Twenty-six original episodes aired in 2002 on television and three additional bonus ones were released on DVD as [[original video animation]]. The series features each characters designed by [[Yoshiyuki Sadamoto]],<ref name="jump" /> and written by [[Kazunori Itō]].<ref name="plot" /> The score was composed by [[Yuki Kajiura]], marking her second collaboration with Mashimo.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-60905 |title=''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 1'' |work=CD Japan |access-date=January 15, 2007}}</ref>

The series is influenced by psychological and sociological subjects, such as [[anxiety]], [[escapism]] and [[interpersonal relationship]]s.<ref name = "proto-hack1"/><ref name = "proto-hack2"/> The series focuses on a [[.hack#Primary 6 Classes|Wavemaster]] (magic user) named Tsukasa, a [[player character]] in a [[virtual reality]] [[massively multiplayer online role-playing game]] called ''[[The World (.hack)|The World]]''. He wakes up to find himself in a dungeon in ''The World'', but he suffers from short-term memory loss as he wonders where he is and how he got there. The situation gets worse when he discovers he is trapped in the game and cannot log out. From then on, along with other players, Tsukasa embarks on a quest to find the truth behind his abnormal situation.

The series premiered in Japan on [[TV Tokyo]] from April 4 to September 25, 2002. It was broadcast across East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia and Latin America, by the anime television network, [[Animax]], and across the United States, Nigeria, Canada and United Kingdom, by [[Cartoon Network]], [[YTV (TV channel)|YTV]] and [[AnimeCentral]] (English and Japanese) respectively. It was distributed across North America by [[Bandai]].

The storyline moves at a leisurely pace,<ref name = "boredom"/> and has multiple layers<ref name = "verdict"/>—the viewer is often fed false information and [[red herring (plot device)|red herrings]], potentially leading to confusion until the true nature of events is unveiled towards the end of the series.<ref name = "sci-fi"/>  It relies on [[Characterization|character development]] and has few action scenes; most of the time character interaction is presented in the form of dialogue.<ref name = "boredom"/> English language reception to the series has been generally positive,<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "active"/> but some of these sources have negatively criticised the series as a result of its slow pacing and character-driven storyline.<ref name = "verdict"/>

==Synopsis==
===Setting===
The series is set in a fictional 2009, introducing a [[computer virus]] called ''Pluto's Kiss'' as the cause of a massive Internet shutdown.<ref name = "timeline">{{cite book |last= Hamazaki |first= Tatsuya |title= .hack // AI buster 2 |chapter= History of The World |publisher= [[Kadokawa Shoten]] |language = ja|date= June 1, 2005  |isbn= 978-4-04-422206-2}}</ref> The results are described as catastrophic:<ref name = "buster"/> traffic lights shut down, planes collide in midair, and the [[Nuclear weapons of the United States|American nuclear missiles]] are nearly launched. As a consequence, [[cyberspace]] is subjected to severe restrictions. The virus affects all operating systems except for one, Altimit OS, the only operating system immune to all computer viruses.<ref name = "buster">{{cite book |last= Hamazaki |first= Tatsuya | title= .hack // AI buster |chapter= Area.4 Memory |publisher= [[Tokyopop|Tokyopop Press Inc]] |date= January 1, 2006 |isbn= 1-59532-869-6}}</ref>
[[File:Hack-newtype1.jpg|left|thumb|Displaying ornate buildings and numerous canals lined by decorative walkways, Mac Anu (Delta Server's Root Town) is reminiscent of [[Venice]].<ref name = "otaku-hack">{{cite web|url=http://reviews.theotaku.com/view.php?action=retrieve&id=13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808002225/http://reviews.theotaku.com/view.php?action=retrieve&id=13 |archive-date=August 8, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign'' Review |work=theOtaku.com |access-date=July 10, 2007}} [[Internet Archive]] copy.</ref>]]
Two years later free access to the networks recovers, bringing with it the release of ''The World'': the first [[online game]] since ''Pluto's Kiss'', developed for Altimit OS.<ref name = "timeline"/> ''The World'' is portrayed as a [[fantasy]] setting wherein player characters can be different classes, adventure by themselves to go searching through dungeons or join with others and form parties, fight monsters and [[experience point|level up]], collect new items and participate in special events.<ref name="plot">{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/hacksign-vol-1-login_article_75035.html |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 1.0) – Login'' Review |work=AnimeOnDVD.com |last=Beveridge |first=Chris |access-date=January 21, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090415233703/http://www.mania.com/hacksign-vol-1-login_article_75035.html |archive-date=April 15, 2009 }}</ref> At the center of each server is a Root Town, which contain shops, a save point, and the Chaos Gate that players use to travel between servers in the game.<ref name = "bust"/>

[[Harald Hoerwick]] is introduced as the creator of ''The World''. He secretly designed the game as a virtual womb in order to create the ultimate [[artificial intelligence]] (AI), by receiving emotional and psychological data from the players. His motivation is revealed to be the death of [[Emma Wielant]], a German poet with whom he was in love; the AI, who was named [[Aura (.hack)|Aura]], would serve as the "daughter" they never had.<ref name = "liminality">''[[.hack//Liminality]]'', episode 4, ''Trismegistus''. This episode was released along with the ''[[.hack//Quarantine]]'' game.</ref> Harald left the gathering of the required data for Aura's development at the care of the core system of ''The World'' itself, an omnipresent AI called [[Morganna Mode Gone]].<ref name = "buster"/> The storyline of ''.hack//Sign'', set in early 2010,<ref name = "timeline"/> revolves around the premise of Morganna attempting to stall the growth of Aura indefinitely, after realizing that she will lose her purpose once Aura is complete.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}}

===Plot===
{{See also|List of .hack//Sign episodes}}
The series follows the story about Tsukasa being mind-trapped into the game. Despite being a "fantasy quest type adventure", it does not rely on action sequences.<ref name = "plot"/><ref name = "active">{{cite web|url=http://www.activeanime.com/pn/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4055 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927193028/http://www.activeanime.com/pn/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=4055 |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign: Anime Legends Complete Collection'' Review |work=Active Anime |last=Ellinwood |first=Holly |access-date=January 24, 2007}}</ref> Instead, the show is driven by mystery, slowly revealing its secrets to the viewer while paying much attention to the individual characters.<ref name="boredom">{{Cite web|last=McPherson |first=Mark |url=http://animeboredom.co.uk/anime-reviews/hack-sign/133 |title=''hack // Sign'' Review |work=Anime Boredom |date=May 9, 2004 |access-date=January 24, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011160015/http://animeboredom.co.uk/anime-reviews/hack-sign/133 |archive-date=October 11, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Questions like what happened to Tsukasa in the real world, who he really is, and why he cannot log out are driving points of the story.<ref name = "active"/>

Soon after the beginning of the series, Tsukasa is led to a hidden area. There he meets Morganna, depicted as a voice without physical appearance, and Aura, who appears as a young girl clad entirely in white, floating asleep above a bed. The storyline introduces Morganna as an ally, but her real intentions are unknown at this point.

As the story progresses many characters are introduced, some who want to help, some who have ulterior motives. Then more questions arise as to "what is happening in the game itself, who are these various characters, what are their true goals and what will happen to Tsukasa".<ref name = "active"/> All the while he is seen struggling with his increasingly dire situation as well as his own social and emotional shortcomings. Tsukasa isolates himself, but eventually he begins to get closer to other players, and builds strong relationships with some of them; the most important is the one born between him and Subaru, a kind and thoughtful female Heavy Axeman.<ref name = "active"/><ref name = "mariko">'''Bear:''' "The reason Tsukasa is still barely able to be involved with people is because of Subaru. If I was the enemy, I would strike at her." '''BT:''' "If that happens, then Tsukasa would surely be unable to recover. (...) We should not think of those two separately." ''.hack//Sign'', episode 24, ''[[List of .hack//Sign episodes|Net Slum]]''.</ref>

In the meantime, the series follows the quest for the {{Nihongo|''Key of the Twilight''|黄昏の鍵|Tasogare no Kagi}}, a legendary item rumored to have the ability to bypass the system in ''The World''.<ref name = "verdict">{{cite web|url=http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/hacksignoutcast.php |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 2.0) – Outcast'' Review |work=DVD Verdict |last=Lineberger |first=Rob |access-date=January 24, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061211212520/http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/hacksignoutcast.php| archive-date= December 11, 2006 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> Some characters want the ''Key'' to gain the power this supposedly confers. Others believe the item will provide Tsukasa with a way to log out. Despite their reasons for seeking it, everyone agrees that it is related to Tsukasa in some way, as he is also a factor bypassing the system in the game. His body being in a coma in the real world adds a sense of urgency to the quest.

Near the end of the series, Tsukasa's real-life identity takes a more central place in the storyline, particularly in relation to his growing bond with Subaru. The series shows his fear and insecurity as he confesses to her that he is probably a girl in the real world.<ref name = "love">'''Tsukasa:''' "Is there really a place for me to return to?" '''Subaru:''' "There is. As long as you desire it." '''Tsukasa:''' "I don't like this place. But... (...) I thought that I was a guy. But that's because my memories were altered. (...) I think the real me is a girl. Do you still want to see me [in the real world]?" '''Subaru:''' "Yes. Because..." '''Tsukasa:''' "Because?"  '''Subaru:''' "Because I've been touched by your trembling soul." ''.hack//Sign'', episode 24, ''[[List of .hack//Sign episodes|Net Slum]]''</ref> It is also at this point when Tsukasa is told Morganna's plan by a highly skilled [[Hacker (computer security)|hacker]] called [[Helba]]. Morganna conceived the plan to link Aura to a character who could corrupt her with negative emotional data, placing her in a state where she would never awaken. The chosen character was Tsukasa, as his mind was filled with distressful memories of his real life. Helba also suggests that when Aura is able to awaken, "the ''Key of the Twilight'' will take form".<ref name = "aura-key">'''Bear:''' "When Tsukasa is able to log out, then Aura will awaken." '''Helba:''' "I believe so. And at that moment, the ''Key of the Twilight'' will take form." ''.hack//Sign'', episode 24, ''[[List of .hack//Sign episodes|Net Slum]]''.</ref>

The story reaches the climax, when Tsukasa confronts Morganna. He declares that he is no longer afraid of her or of reality, and will log out because there is someone he wants to see.<ref name = "morgy-papa">'''Morganna:''' "If you obey, I do not need to exercise my power. Do not make me use my power. You know how truly powerful I am!" '''Tsukasa:''' "I'm no longer afraid of you or my father! There is someone that I want to see [close-up of Subaru's face]. So I'm going to return, return to the place where I belong!" ''.hack//Sign'', episode 26, ''[[List of .hack//Sign episodes|Return]]''.</ref> This statement triggers Aura's awakening, allowing Tsukasa to log out. The last scenes feature an emotional encounter between Tsukasa's real-life self, who is shown to actually be a girl, and the real-life player behind Subaru.{{Clear}}

===Characters===
{{Main|List of .hack characters}}
[[File:Hack-todos.jpg|right|thumb|Clockwise from top-left: Helba, Bear, Crim, Sora, BT, Subaru, Tsukasa and Mimiru]]
The primary characters in the series are Tsukasa, BT, Bear, Mimiru and Subaru (as depicted in the intro of the series).

[[Tsukasa (.hack)|Tsukasa]] is the protagonist of the story and plays a Wavemaster. At the start of the series he is seen waking up to find himself trapped in ''The World'', unable to log out. He is initially depicted as a cynical introvert who tends to avoid others as much as possible, but his character development shows him growing to realize there are people who care about him.<ref name="plot2">{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/hacksign-vol-6-terminus_article_75832.html |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 6.0) – Terminus'' Review |work=AnimeOnDVD.com |last=Beveridge |first=Chris |access-date=January 21, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110425075032/http://www.mania.com/hacksign-vol-6-terminus_article_75832.html |archive-date=April 25, 2011 }}</ref> One of these people is [[Subaru (.hack)|Subaru]], a female Heavy Axeman introduced as the leader of the Crimson Knights, a player organization designed to fight injustice (such as [[player versus player|player killing]]) in ''The World''. Most of the time Subaru is the only character preventing the Crimson Knights from running wild; she knows that they must be restrained from abusing their power. She eventually joins in the search of a way to help Tsukasa, and builds a close relationship with him.<ref name = "mariko"/>

Also close to Tsukasa is [[Mimiru]], a Heavy Blade who is poor at planning things out and following through on them. She is the first player to meet Tsukasa, and later forms a bond with him and vows to protect him. She usually hangs out with [[Bear (.hack)|Bear]], trying to solve the mystery of Tsukasa's inability to log out. Bear is an older player of the game and plays a Blademaster. He appears as cool and collected, always willing to help out newbies. He also conducts research in the real world on Tsukasa. One of Bear's acquaintances is [[BT (.hack)|BT]], a plotting and scheming Wavemaster.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}}

BT teams up with [[Crim (.hack)|Crim]] and [[Sora (.hack)|Sora]] to find the ''Key of the Twilight''. Crim is a powerful Long Arm, friend of Subaru who founded the Crimson Knights organization with her, but afterwards left it as he found it did not match his personality. Amiable, easygoing and sociable; he prefers to keep the real world and the game separate. Crim's stated goal when playing is simply to have fun,<ref name = "fun">'''Crim:''' "I have enough obligations and duties in the real world. I come here to play." ''.hack//Sign'', episode 19, ''[[List of .hack//Sign episodes|Recollection]]''.</ref> although he never turns down a chance to help somebody in need. Sora is a Twin Blade player killer who enjoys hunting players down, especially attractive female ones, and demanding their Member Addresses in exchange for their lives. He sees Tsukasa as the strongest link to the ''Key of the Twilight'', and starts working with BT in the quest for it.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}}

==Concept and design==
The project development began in early 2000 as a joint effort between Bandai and [[CyberConnect2]], with the original idea of producing an online game.<ref name="uchiyama"/> In online games people can interact with each other and create their own stories. The producers wanted to design a game that would offer the players the same experience, but they later thought it would be more appealing with its own storyline, like in standard offline [[role-playing video game]].<ref name="uchiyama"/> According to Daisuke Uchiyama, sub-leader of Bandai's video game planning department, the result was a challenge to the RPG genre itself:<ref name="uchiyama2"/> an offline RPG, entitled ''[[.hack (video game series)|.hack]]'', set in a simulated MMORPG named ''The World''.<ref name="uchiyama"/>

For ''The World'''s design, writer Kazunori Ito did an extensive research  on online games available at the time:<ref name="uchiyama"/> the staff played titles such as ''[[Phantasy Star Online]]'', ''[[Final Fantasy XI]]'', and ''[[Ultima Online]]''.<ref name="mostwanted">{{cite web|url=http://www.g-cia.com/File/Interview/Interview_main.asp?pageNum=9|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050204105821/http://www.g-cia.com/File/Interview/Interview_main.asp?pageNum=9|archive-date=February 4, 2005|title=Most Wanted MMO&nbsp;— Interview with Hiroshi Matsuyama|work=G-CIA|language=ja|quote=｢PSO｣｢FF11｣｢エヴァークエスト｣｢ウルティマオンライン｣｢ディアブロ｣｢リネージュ｣｢ラグナロクオンライン｣・・・たいていのオンラインゲームは遊んで研究済みですよ。" '''Translation:''' "PSO, FF11, EverQuest, Ultima Online, Diablo, Lineage, Ragnarok Online... We did our research by playing most of the online games out there.|access-date=February 4, 2005}} [[Internet Archive]] copy.</ref> Nevertheless, according to Hiroshi Matsuyama (president of CyberConnect2), they were not actively looking to make the fictional game seem like a real-life one.<ref name="uchiyama">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=23720 |title=Interview with Hiroshi Matsuyama and Daisuke Uchiyama |magazine=GamePro |access-date=March 17, 2007 |year=2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011170848/http://gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=23720|archive-date=October 11, 2007}}</ref> Instead, the idea was to create a "gigantic game system that, if the CC Corporation (the creators of ''The World'' in the game) actually existed, it would make sense for them to be behind" [emphasis added];<ref name="uchiyama"/> a game described by Matsuyama as largely "futuristic and alien".<ref name="uchiyama"/>

As the project started shortly before the [[PlayStation 2]]'s release, the authors seized the opportunity to make the ''.hack'' game on the new platform.<ref name="uchiyama2">{{cite web |url=http://www.rpgfan.com/features/creatorstalk/index4.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030625065728/http://www.rpgfan.com/features/creatorstalk/index4.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 25, 2003 |title=Interview with Daisuke Uchiyama |work=RPGFan |access-date=March 17, 2007 |year=2003 }}</ref> This decision allowed them to develop into unexpected directions.<ref name="uchiyama2"/> Shin Unozawa, general manager of Bandai's game department, suggested dividing the game into four parts and release them in three-month intervals.<ref name="Wong 2005"/> The idea being to follow the [[Yonkoma|four panel manga]] style as well as to keep sales constant throughout the year.<ref name="Wong 2005">{{Cite journal |last=Wong |first=Amos |title=Inside Bee Train |journal=[[Newtype USA]] |volume=4 |issue=3 |pages=10–13 |date=March 2005 <!-- https://web.archive.org/web/20080416234102/http://www.newtype-usa.com/issues/index.php?itemid=71 --> |issn=1541-4817 }}</ref><ref name="hiroshi">{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/403/403483p1.html |title=Interview with Hiroshi Matsuyama |work=IGN |access-date=March 17, 2007 |year=2003| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061231092204/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/403/403483p1.html| archive-date= December 31, 2006 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> Taking advantage of the PlayStation 2's capability to read DVD-Video, the authors also decided making an OVA series (''[[.hack//Liminality]]'') comprised by four episodes, one to go with each game.<ref name="uchiyama2"/><ref name="Wong 2005"/> Nevertheless, they still felt the need to bolster the project with something more, therefore they decided to produce ''.hack//Sign'', a TV show timed to air with the first game's release.<ref name="Wong 2005"/> For Kōichi Mashimo it was a hectic schedule: he was directing both animated projects, and was also in the midst of developing the ''[[Noir (anime)|Noir]]'' anime series.<ref name="Wong 2005"/>

===Imagery===
[[File:Papa-sign1.jpg|right|thumb|The real-world scenes' raw presentation denotes the predominance of ''The World'' over reality.<ref name="chanpon-1"/>]]
The virtual environment depicted in ''.hack//Sign'' draws on [[Middle Ages|medieval]] imagery:<ref name="chanpon-1">{{cite web|url=http://www.chanpon.org/archive/2004/12/29/20h01m32s |title=Signs of ''.hack'' |work=Chanpon |last=Hall |first=Justin |access-date=April 10, 2007 |year=2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070317025919/http://www.chanpon.org/archive/2004/12/29/20h01m32s |archive-date=March 17, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref> settings range from a Venice-like city to a [[Gothic architecture|Gothic]] stone church, passing by settlements such as villages and [[castle]]s; the series' scenery shows examples of [[Celtic art]].<ref name = "bust"/> Natural landscapes such as forests and tundras complete the setting design, which overall displays the fantasy theme seen in most MMORPGs.<ref name = "plot"/>

Sadamoto's character designs follow the fantasy theme as well,<ref name = "vision-hack2">{{cite web|url=http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/hack2.html |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 2.0) – Outcast'' Review |work=DVDVisionJapan |last=Synger |first=Lauren |access-date=August 8, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070928083244/http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/hack2.html| archive-date= September 28, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> drawing influence from the [[sword and sorcery]] [[Fantasy subgenres|subgenre]] in particular.<ref name="pop-hack">{{cite web|url=http://www.popcultureshock.com/pcs-reviews.php?id=2115 |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 1.0) – Login'' Review |work=PopCultureShock |last=Alexander |first=Christina |access-date=August 1, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071030012626/http://www.popcultureshock.com/pcs-reviews.php?id=2115 |archive-date=October 30, 2007 |url-status=usurped |df=mdy }}</ref> Character designs also draw on [[Celts|Celtic]] imagery: Director Mashimo acknowledged similarities between Bear's design and [[Mel Gibson]] in his role as [[William Wallace]],<ref name="expo-koichi">{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/anime-expo-saturday-report_article_86124.html |title=Interview with Kōichi Mashimo |work=AnimeOnDVD.com |last=Iyadomi |first=Ken |access-date=March 3, 2007 |year=2002 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080803184402/http://www.mania.com/anime-expo-saturday-report_article_86124.html |archive-date=August 3, 2008 }}</ref> an example of Celtic warrior.<ref name="sunday1">{{Cite news |first=Barry |last=Didcock |title=Does the Celtic heart still beat? |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12444225.DOES_THE_CELTIC_HEART_STILL_BEAT__As_acts_from_Spain_and_Canada_on_Scotland_for_the_Celtic_Connections_festival__Barry_Didcock_tries_to_find_the_real_Celts_and_asks__do_they_even_exist_/ |work=[[Sunday Herald]] |date=January 8, 2006 |access-date=September 7, 2007 |quote=but here he [Mel Gibson as William Wallace] looks every inch the Celtic warrior.}}</ref> All the characters are given distinctive patterns resembling tattoos, the visual representation of a fictional gameplay aspect called Wave.<ref name = "bust">{{cite book |last= Hamazaki |first= Tatsuya | title= .hack // AI buster |chapter= Town Mac Anu |publisher= [[Tokyopop|Tokyopop Press Inc]] |date= January 1, 2006 |isbn= 1-59532-869-6}}</ref>

In contrast with ''The World'''s scenery, real-world sequences are [[minimalism|minimalist]] in their presentation.<ref name="chanpon-1"/> They display faces frequently obscured by shadows or hidden by extreme angles. The dialogue is not heard, but shown through title cards: when someone speaks the screen blacks out and a line of red or blue text appears with the dialogue.<ref name = "otaku-hack"/> The combination of [[Image noise|visual]] and [[Noise (audio)|acoustic]] noise makes reality appear as "some kind of less authentic, alternate channel".<ref name = "otaku-hack"/><ref name="chanpon-1"/>

===Music===
[[Yuki Kajiura]] provides a soundtrack permeated by the Celtic style and gaming theme of the series.<ref name = "strain">{{cite web|url=http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2003/09/reviews/10/ |title=''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 1'' Review |work=Animefringe |last=Khan |first=Ridwan |access-date=January 20, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061130044023/http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2003/09/reviews/10/| archive-date= November 30, 2006 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> The songs feature synthesizer and [[string instrument|strings]] compositions,<ref name = "strain"/> as well as vocals consisting of English chanting.<ref name = "dong">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/.hack-sign/dvd-1 |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 1.0) – Login'' Review |work=[[Anime News Network]] |last=Dong |first=Bamboo |access-date=January 26, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070317211924/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/.hack-sign/dvd-1| archive-date= March 17, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> [[Celtic music|Celtic]] influence is prominent in themes such as "Key of the Twilight" and "Open Your Heart".<ref name = "dream-hack"/><ref name="fiction">{{cite web|url=http://www.animejump.com/index.php?module=prodreviews&func=showcontent&id=440 |title=''Fiction&nbsp;— Yuki Kajiura'' Review |work=Anime Jump |last=Toole |first=Mike |access-date=August 5, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926230043/http://www.animejump.com/index.php?module=prodreviews&func=showcontent&id=440 |archive-date=September 26, 2007 |url-status=dead |df=mdy }}</ref> Performed by [[Emily Bindiger]], "Key of the Twilight" blends a pulsing drum and bass mix with guitar intonations.<ref name = "strain"/> "Open Your Heart", on the other hand, combines Bindiger's [[contralto]] vocals with an [[uilleann pipes]] solo.<ref name = "fiction"/> The ''.hack//Sign'' soundtrack also features vocals by Yuriko Kaida. "Mimiru" has her humming across a saxophone melody performed by Kazuo Takeda;<ref name = "dream2-hack"/> in "Das Wandern" she sings over a lone piano.<ref name="dream2-hack">{{cite web|url=http://www.animedream.com/music/dot-hack-sign-ost2/ |title=''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 2'' Review |work=Anime Dream |access-date=July 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070707065433/http://www.animedream.com/music/dot-hack-sign-ost2/ |archive-date=July 7, 2007 |url-status=live |df=mdy }}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=April 2009}}

European influence is prominent in instrumental pieces as well, "Foreigners" being a prime example.<ref name = "strain"/> Reminiscent of a classic Irish diddy, the track comprises a flute dancing across a tribal-like percussion set.<ref name = "dream-hack"/> Orchestral music includes pieces such as "Fear" and "Kiss". "Fear" features an [[electronic music|electronic]] melody wrapped around a digital-beat groove,<ref name = "strain"/><ref name = "dream-hack"/> mixed with a distant voice uttering "feeaarr!".<ref name = "dream-hack"/> Combining "the childlike humanity into a frightening digital reality", the song is an "analogy to the series' plot".<ref name = "strain"/> "Kiss" is a theme that entirely features traditional [[symphony]], although only using a few performers.<ref name = "dream-hack"/> It is a violin and piano mix, used to set mood in the series.<ref name = "strain"/>

The opening theme of the series is "Obsession". Performed by Kajiura's musical group [[See-Saw (group)|See-Saw]], the track features an electric guitar and rapid electronic beat.<ref name="dream-hack">{{cite web|url=http://www.animedream.com/music/dot-hack-sign-ost1/ |title=''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 1'' Review |work=Anime Dream |access-date=July 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070711121444/http://www.animedream.com/music/dot-hack-sign-ost1/ |archive-date=July 11, 2007 |url-status=live |df=mdy }}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=April 2009}} The closing theme is {{Nihongo|"''Yasashii Yoake''"|優しい夜明け||"gentle dawn"}}, also performed by [[See-Saw (group)|See-Saw]].<ref name = "strain"/> It is a blend of Japanese vocals, an [[Irish bouzouki]], acoustic guitars and percussion.<ref name = "dream-hack"/> Both themes were released as a single on May 22, 2002, by Victor Entertainment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discography/A017069/VICL-35384.html|title=Obsession／優しい夜明け|language=ja|access-date=2012-07-16}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-35384 |title=CD Japan: ''.hack // Sign OP&ED Single - Obsession'' |website=CDJapan |access-date=2007-01-15| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061117171849/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-35384| archive-date=November 17, 2006<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> Three original soundtracks with vocals [[Emily Bindiger]], with music and arrangement (and lyrics in vocals themes) by Yuki Kajiura were released. The first original soundtrack was released in North America with the limited edition of the first ''.hack//Sign'' DVD.<ref name = "collector1">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=238 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071113063753/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=238 |archive-date=November 13, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Limited Edition (Version 1.0) – Login'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=December 29, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-60905 |title=CD Japan: ''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 1'' |website=CDJapan |access-date=2007-01-15}}</ref> This album is a mix of vocal themes and BGM. Most of the vocal songs and a couple of BGM tracks have strong Celtic influence. The BGM is completed with tracks with noticeable console-RPG style.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2003/09/reviews/10/ |title=Animefringe: ''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 1'' Review |last=Khan |first=Ridwan |access-date=2007-01-20| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061130044023/http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2003/09/reviews/10/| archive-date=November 30, 2006<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> The second original soundtrack was released in North America with the limited edition of the second ''.hack//Sign'' DVD.<ref name = "collector2">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=274 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071117093628/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=274 |archive-date=November 17, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Limited Edition (Version 2.0) – Outcast'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=December 29, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-60906 |title=CD Japan: ''.hack // Sign Original Sound & Song track 2'' |website=CDJapan |access-date=2007-01-15| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061030144646/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-60906| archive-date=October 30, 2006<!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> All of the tracks are fairly slow, with catchy beats. The final music soundtrack was titled ".hack//Extra Soundtrack".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VICL-60971 |title=CD Japan: ''.hack // Extra Soundtracks'' |website=CDJapan |access-date=2007-01-15}}</ref> In North America this soundtrack was included with the limited edition of the fourth ''.hack//Sign'' DVD.<ref name = "collector4">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=265 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071116091521/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=265 |archive-date=November 16, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Limited Edition (Version 4.0) – Omnipotence'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=December 29, 2008}}</ref> DSTV-channel/full>

;Discs
{{Track listing
| headline        = Obsession/Yasashii Yoake by See-Saw
| total_length    = 19:13
| title1          = Obsession
| note1           =
| length1         = 4:28
| title2          = Yasashii Yoake
| note2           = 優しい夜明け
| length2         = 5:08
| title3          = Obsession (Karaoke)
| note3           =
| length3         = 4:28
| title4          = Yasashii Yoake (Karaoke)
| note4           = 優しい夜明け (Karaoke)
| length4         = 5:09
}}
{{Track listing
| headline        = .hack//Sign Original Soundtrack 1
|extra_column     = Vocals
| total_length    = 52:16
| title1          = Yasashii Yoake TV-SIZE
| note1           =
| length1         = 1:31
| title2          = The World
| extra2          = [[Emily Bindiger]]
| note2           =
| length2         = 5:02
| title3          = Kiss
| note3           =
| length3         = 1:48
| title4          = Key of The Twilight
| extra4          = Emily Bindiger
| note4           =
| length4         = 3:45
| title5          = Valley of Mist
| note5           =
| length5         = 3:34
| title6          = Where The Sky is High
| note6           =
| length6         = 2:46
| title7          = Fake Wings
| extra7          = Emily Bindiger
| note7           =
| length7         = 2:35
| title8          = Interlude
| note8           =
| length8         = 2:05
| title9          = Fear
| note9           =
| length9         = 2:40
| title10         = Aura
| extra10         = Emily Bindiger
| note10          =
| length10        = 3:04
| title11         = Before Dawn
| note11          =
| length11        = 1:54
| title12         = Foreigners
| note12          =
| length12        = 2:07
| title13         = BT
| note13          =
| length13        = 2:36
| title14         = A Stray Child
| extra14         = Emily Bindiger
| note14          =
| length14        = 2:47
| title15         = Sit Beside Me
| note15          =
| length15        = 3:20
| title16         = Magic and Sword
| note16          =
| length16        = 2:19
| title17         = A Bit of Happiness
| note17          =
| length17        = 2:30
| title18         = Silent Life
| note18          =
| length18        = 4:08
| title19         = Obsession (TV-MIX)
| note19          =
| length19        = 1:35
}}
{{Track listing
|extra_column     = Vocals
| headline        = .hack//Sign Original Soundtrack 2
| total_length    = 53:29
| title1          = Open your Heart
|extra1           = Emily Bindiger
| note1           =
| length1         = 3:31
| title2          = Smallest Delight
| note2           =
| length2         = 2:33
| title3          = Labyrinth
| note3           =
| length3         = 2:23
| title4          = In the Land of Twilight, Under the Moon
| note4           =
| length4         =  3:45
| title5          = In your Mind
| note5           =
| length5         = 3:03
| title6          = Bear
| note6           =
| length6         = 2:14
| title7          = Echoes
| note7           =
| length7         = 2:07
| title8          = Cyber-Slum
| note8           =
| length8         = 3:32
| title9          = Strangers
| note9           =
| length9         = 2:11
| title10         = Where you Are
| note10          =
| length10        = 1:26
| title11         = Limits
| note11          =
| length11        = 2:35
| title12         = Broken Wings
| note12          =
| length12        = 1:17
| title13         = Mimiru
|extra13          = Yuriko Kaida
| note13          =
| length13        = 3:34
| title14         = Useless Chatting
| note14          =
| length14        =  2:26
| title15         = Secret Project
| note15          =
| length15        = 2:21
| title16         = Say Goodbye
| note16          =
| length16        = 1:52
| title17         = To Nowhere
|extra17          = Emily Bindiger
| note17          =
| length17        = 3:15
| title18         = End of The World
| note18          =
| length18        = 3:11
| title19         = Das Wandern"
|extra19          = Yuriko Kaida
| note19          =
| length19        = 1:26
| title20         = Open your Heart～reprise
|extra20          = Emily Bindiger
| note20          =
| length20        =  4:36
}}
{{Track listing
| headline        = .hack//Extra Soundtrack
|extra_column     = Vocals
| total_length    = 52:33
| title1          = Obsession (str. ver.)
| note1           =
| length1         = 5:54
| title2          = Warp
|extra2           = Yuriko Kaida
| note2           =
| length2         = 3:32
| title3          = Fake Wings (bitter sweet ver.)
|extra3           = Emily Bindiger
| note3           =
| length3         = 1:50
| title4          = Rain and Storm
| note4           =
| length4         = 3:01
| title5          = Aura (evil ver.)
|extra5           = Emily Bindiger
| note5           =
| length5         = 2:11
| title6          = Morganna
| note6           =
| length6         = 4:08
| title7          = Deep Despair
| note7           =
| length7         = 1:55
| title8          = Suspense & Mystery
| note8           =
| length8         = 2:09
| title9          = Fake Wings (make decision ver.)
|extra9           = Emily Bindiger
| note9           =
| length9         = 3:25
| title10         = Who am I?
| note10          =
| length10        = 2:51
| title11         = Digital Monsters
| note11          =
| length11        = 2:44
| title12         = Aura (Awakening ver.)
| note12          =
| length12        = 2:21
| title13         = Morganna (Tolerance ver.)
| note13          =
| length13        = 2:32
| title14         = Distrust
| note14          =
| length14        = 2:08
| title15         = The World (extra ver.)
|extra15          =  Emily Bindiger
| note15          =
| length15        = 5:24
| title16         = attack 07
| note16          =
| length16        = 0:11
| title17         = edge (instr. ver.)
| note17          =
| length17        = 2:25
| title18         = bridge 01
| note18          =
| length18        = 0:48
| title19         = bridge 02
| note19          =
| length19        = 0:48
| title20         = bridge 03
| note20          =
| length20        = 0:35
| title21         = bridge 04
| note21          =
| length21        = 0:59
| title22         = bridge 05
| note22          =
| length22        = 0:52
| title23         = bridge 06
| note23          =
| length23        = 0:40
}}

===Themes===
Despite its visual concept, ''.hack//Sign'' is not a sword and sorcery story, but an exposition-driven character study.<ref name = "jump"/> It proposes "a trip inside the psychology and soul of an emotionally bruised, but slowly healing person."<ref name = "proto-hack1"/> Themes range from psychological to sociological and are dealt with using classical dialogue as well as image-only introspection.<ref name = "proto-hack1"/><ref name = "proto-hack2"/><ref name = "active"/>
[[File:Depresed tsukasa.jpg|right|thumb|The somber scenery symbolizes Tsukasa's tormented [[Mental health|state of mind]].<ref name="proto-hack1">{{cite journal|last=Matsuda |first=Miyako |title=Presentation |journal=[[Protoculture Addicts]] |issue=75 |page=4 |date=April 2003 |isbn=978-2-9805759-8-3 |url=http://www.protoculture.ca/PA/PA75edito.htm |access-date=August 14, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927225646/http://www.protoculture.ca/PA/PA75edito.htm |archive-date=September 27, 2007 }}</ref>]]
Among the most prominent themes in ''.hack//Sign'' are [[anxiety]], its causes, and the effects it has upon [[human behavior]].<ref name = "proto-hack1"/> Scenes of the real world show people living an apprehensive, even painful reality:<ref name="chanpon-1"/> characters' background includes subjects such as [[dysfunctional families]] and physical impediments.{{citation needed|date=January 2017}} Tsukasa himself is psychologically affected by years of [[Child abuse|physical abuse]] and neglect,<ref name = "proto-hack2"/> a state that gets worse throughout his experience in the game, where his reality disappears and he begins to doubt his own existence.<ref name = "proto-hack1"/> When anxiety is excessive (like in the case depicted by Tsukasa's story) and can not be relieved by practical problem-solving methods, "the human [[Id, ego, and super-ego|ego]] uses maneuvers such as a [[defence mechanism|defense mechanism]] to deny, falsify or even distort reality."<ref name = "proto-hack1"/> The anime series explores this process as the root of emotional and behavioral issues such as [[Emotional detachment|detachment]] and [[Solitude|isolation]].<ref name = "proto-hack2"/><ref name = "active"/>

[[Escapism]], if only as representing a consequence of anxiety, is a significant theme in ''.hack//Sign''.<ref name = "proto-hack1"/> The series explores how technology, such as the Internet and online games, can be used to escape reality.<ref name = "active"/> ''The World'' is portrayed as a means that people use "to escape their lives", assuming roles online that [[compensation (psychology)|compensate]] for their shortcomings in the real world:<ref name="chanpon-1"/> to some, it is a place where they can overcome their physical limitations; to others, it is a social outlet or a world free of rules.{{citation needed|date=January 2017}} In addition, the preference given to the virtual world over reality represents the intrusion of technology in the social structure:<ref name="chanpon-1"/> as people engage in "the wide potential of cyberspace", they become more withdrawn in the real world.<ref name="chanpon-1"/>

[[Interpersonal relationship]]s are a prominent theme too.<ref name = "proto-hack2">{{cite web|url=http://www.protoculture.ca/eZine/hack.htm |title=''.hack // Sign'' Essay |work=[[Protoculture Inc.|Protoculture]] |last=Matsuda |first=Miyako |access-date=August 14, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070927225710/http://www.protoculture.ca/eZine/hack.htm| archive-date= September 27, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> The show explores the psychological effects social connections have upon people with emotional needs.<ref name = "active"/> Initially Tsukasa shows no respect for any values or other people, but as he engages in relationships, he begins to gradually change, learning to care about others and acquiring the strength to face the reality of his life.<ref name = "proto-hack1"/>

==Media==

===Releases===

Originally, ''.hack//Sign'' was broadcast in Japan on [[TV Tokyo]] between April 4 to September 25, 2002.<ref>{{Cite web |title=.hack - Aired Order - All Seasons - TheTVDB.com |url=https://thetvdb.com/series/hack-1/allseasons/official |access-date=2024-12-30 |website=thetvdb.com}}</ref> The same year [[Victor Entertainment]] released the entire score in three albums, along with a single containing the opening and ending of the series.<ref name = "victor">{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discographylist2/L0418.html |title=''.hack // Sign'' Discography |work=[[Victor Entertainment]] |language=ja|access-date=January 21, 2007}}</ref>

In North America, ''.hack//Sign'' was licensed and distributed by Bandai Entertainment,<ref name = "ann-hack">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-05-23/bandai-aquires-.hack-sign |title=''.hack // Sign'' News |work=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=January 14, 2007}}</ref> and [[dubbing (filmmaking)|dubbed]] by PCB Productions, who are known for their adaptations of fare like ''[[Geneshaft]]''.<ref name="jump">{{Cite web |url=http://animejump.com/index.php?module=prodreviews&func=showcontent&id=218 |title=''.hack // Sign'' Review |work=Anime Jump |last=Toole |first=Mike |access-date=January 20, 2007 |date=October 16, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926225957/http://animejump.com/index.php?module=prodreviews&func=showcontent&id=218 |archive-date=September 26, 2007 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The dub aired on [[Cartoon Network]]'s [[Toonami]] between February 1, 2003 and March 1, 2004.<ref name = "tv-hack">{{cite web |url=http://www.tv.com/.hack--sign/show/16327/summary.html?q= |title=''.hack // Sign'' |work=[[TV.com]] |access-date=February 28, 2007 |archive-date=January 14, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114010638/http://www.tv.com/.hack--sign/show/16327/summary.html?q= |url-status=dead }}</ref> The series was also released on DVD, spanning six volumes. The limited edition ran from March 4, 2003 to March 16, 2004, followed by the regular edition from March 18, 2003 to March 16, 2004.<ref name = "sign-todos">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video.cfm?s=74 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071217144216/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video.cfm?s=74 |archive-date=December 17, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=January 19, 2007}}</ref> A recap episode called ''Evidence'' and the DVD only episode ''Intermezzo'' were included in the sixth volume, and ''Unison'' was only included in its limited edition.<ref name = "terminus6">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=350 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071224091129/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=350 |archive-date=December 24, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Limited Edition (Version 6.0) – Terminus'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=January 14, 2007}}</ref> Following the multimedia concept of the franchise,<ref name = "them-hack">{{cite web|url=http://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=1 |title=''.hack // Sign'' Review |work=THEM Anime Reviews |last=Ross |first=Carlos |access-date=August 14, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071009022337/http://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=1| archive-date= October 9, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> Bandai also acquired the license for the ''.hack'' games,<ref name = "ann-hack"/> the first one being released the same month the anime series began broadcast.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2003-01-23/.hack-details |title=''.hack // Sign'' News |work=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=January 14, 2007}}</ref>

The multimedia approach is shown through the DVD release as well. The limited edition not only included the three soundtrack albums of the series, but also the soundtrack of ''.hack//Liminality'' and a demo disc of the first game.<ref name="collector1"/><ref name="collector2"/><ref name="collector4"/><ref name = "collector3">{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=264 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071113063553/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=264 |archive-date=November 13, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Limited Edition (Version 3.0) – Gestalt'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=December 29, 2008}}</ref>

The series was compiled three times. The first DVD box set was released on October 26, 2004, by the name ''.hack//Sign&nbsp;– Complete Collection'', and the second, more affordable one on August 22, 2006, by the name ''.hack//Sign: Anime Legends Complete Collection''. Neither of these releases contains the OVA episode ''Unison''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=412 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071224091135/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=412 |archive-date=December 24, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign&nbsp;— Complete Collection'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=January 14, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=602 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071224093106/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details.cfm?id=602 |archive-date=December 24, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign: Anime Legends Complete Collection'' |work=Bandai Entertainment |access-date=January 14, 2007}}</ref>

Following the closure of Bandai Entertainment, [[Crunchyroll, LLC|Funimation]]  (later Crunchyroll, LLC) announced at [[San Diego Comic Con|SDCC]] 2013, that they acquired four .hack titles including SIGN.<ref>{{cite web|title=Funimation Adds 4 .hack Anime|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2013-07-18/funimation-adds-4-.hack-anime|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=19 July 2013}}</ref> In 2015, Funimation released the DVD boxset ''.hack//Sign: The Complete Series'', which contains all 28 episodes, including both OVA episodes.

===Publications===
A compilation artbook called ''.hack//the visions'' was included in the February, 2003 issue of ''[[Newtype]]'' published by [[Kadokawa Shoten]]. The book contains ''.hack//Sign'', ''[[.hack//Legend of the Twilight]]'', and the ''.hack'' games illustrations which were originally shown in different issues of Newtype during 2002. Participating artists included Rei Izumi, Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, Satoshi Ohsawa, and Yuko Iwaoka.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}}

An information book about ''Project .hack.'' was published by [[Fujimi Shobo]] in June, 2003. The book, called ''Encyclopedia .hack'' ({{ISBN|4-8291-7530-3}}), is a compilation of theories and information about storyline, setting, and characters of the franchise, taken from the series itself.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Encyclopedia .hack|language=ja|isbn=4829175303 |author1=冒険企画局|date=June 2003|publisher=富士見書房 }}</ref> Another information book about ''Project .hack'' was published by [[Soft Bank Creative|Softbank Publishing]] on September 27, 2003. This publication was called ''hack//analysis'' ({{ISBN|4-7973-2455-4}}) and, unlike ''Encyclopedia'', included never-before-seen information on ''The World'' and the characters of the franchise. Information about ''.hack//Sign'' characters like Bear and BT was expanded in this book.<ref>{{Cite book|title=.hack // analysis ~Project.hack 設定資料集~|date=September 2003|publisher=ソフトバンククリエイティブ |language=ja|isbn=4797324554 }}</ref>

==Reception==
The series has generally been positive. Holly Ellinwood of Anime Active saluted Ito's "well thought out, even provocative" storyline in the 2006 review of the series, saying that it is "far more cerebral, even [[existentialism|existential]] than the anime's other less sophisticated contemporaries."<ref name = "active"/> Nevertheless, reviewers agree that it is the series which viewers either love or hate.<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "plot"/><ref name = "coffee"/> According to Mike Toole from Anime Jump, it "deserves to be both maligned and admired".<ref name = "jump"/> NeedCoffee's reviewer regarded the show as "one of the most controversial titles in recent years".<ref name = "coffee">{{cite web|url=http://www.needcoffee.com/html/dvd/dothack5.htm |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 5.0) – Uncovered'' Review |work=Needcoffee.com |access-date=February 22, 2007}}</ref> Negative criticism focuses on the slow-paced story and the almost total absence of action sequences, elements which are also considered as what makes the series "most unique".<ref name = "boredom"/><ref name = "sci-fi">{{cite web|url=http://www.scifi.com/sfw/anime/sfw9565.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061229135133/http://www.scifi.com/sfw/anime/sfw9565.html|archive-date=December 29, 2006 |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 1.0) – Login Review'' Review |work=SCI FI Weekly |last=Robinson |first=Tasha |access-date=January 21, 2007}}</ref>

Bamboo Dong of [[Anime News Network]] called the series "interesting to watch," saying the story gets more "detailed and complex" by the show's fourth episode, praised the music selection, the voice casting, and the artwork.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Dong|first1=Bamboo|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/.hack-sign/dvd-1|title=.hack // SIGN Limited Edition DVD 1: Login [Review]|date=March 15, 2003|website=[[Anime News Network]]|language=en|access-date=February 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190303074004/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/.hack-sign/dvd-1|archive-date=March 3, 2019}}</ref> Dong also said that while the storyline has "aspects of mediocrity, " the storyline is intriguing and intense, and that the series is something that "has to be watched at least once." 
Nick Creamer of [[Anime News Network]] called the series the "grandfather of MMO anime," saying it is mellow, contemplative, and slow.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Creamer|first1=Nick|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/hack/sign/dvd-complete-series/.88373|title=.hack // SIGN DVD - Complete Series [Review]|date=May 21, 2015|website=[[Anime News Network]]|language=en|access-date=July 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190310002522/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/hack/sign/dvd-complete-series/.88373|archive-date=March 10, 2019}}</ref> He further said that the show puts you in the middle of relationships between the character and although these are not originally described, views come to understand the logic behind their actions, and added that the "underlying art" of the series holds up. He also said that the series has consistent backgrounds, a diverse music score, and calls the anime, ultimately, a story of "anxiety and identity and virtual selves."

The series received high marks for technical aspects. Chris Beveridge from Anime On DVD feels the animation is "gorgeous" and the "colors are lush and vivid".<ref name = "plot"/> Tasha Robinson from SCI FI Weekly says that "''The World''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s hugely varied settings provide ever-changing backgrounds,"<ref name = "sci-fi"/> which are considered by Rob Lineberger of DVD Verdict as "detailed and innovative".<ref name = "verdict"/> In his review of the first English release, Mike Toole described the series as "a beautiful, rich-looking series, with frequently sumptuous character design and animation that's only emphasized by the quality of the DVD."<ref name = "jump"/> A negative opinion is expressed by Rob Lineberger himself, who says that "many of the animated sequences were static characters with slightly moving lips."<ref name = "verdict"/> Tasha Robinson, instead, shows a more neutral perspective on this subject, saying that "the animation is simple but attractive."<ref name = "sci-fi"/> A concern several reviewers express is that the gaming environment the series tries to simulate should be more crowded, being a game supposedly extremely popular worldwide.<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "sci-fi"/> A different opinion is that of Anime Academy's reviewer, who writes that the anime's depiction of the game-world setting is realistic and accurate.<ref name = "a-academy">{{cite web|url=http://www.animeacademy.com/finalrevdisplay.php?id=141 |title=''.hack // Sign'' Review|work=Anime Academy|access-date=March 24, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070404033339/http://www.animeacademy.com/finalrevdisplay.php?id=141| archive-date= April 4, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref>

Bandai's release earned praise for the quality of the video transfer and the DVD extras (particularly in the limited edition).<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "plot"/><ref name = "vision-hack1">{{cite web|url=http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/hack.html |title=''.hack // Sign (Version 1.0) – Login'' Review |work=DVDVisionJapan |last=Elgin |first=Kathy |access-date=August 8, 2007| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070629114008/http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/hack.html| archive-date= June 29, 2007 <!--Added by DASHBot-->}}</ref> Reviewers appreciated the English [[voice acting]]: Lauren Synger from DVD Vision Japan feels that "everyone was very appropriate to their characters", noting that Brianne Sidal did an excellent work capturing Saiga's Tsukasa.<ref name = "vision-Japan">{{cite web|url=http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/vb7.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070408060828/http://www.dvdvisionjapan.com/vb7.html|archive-date=April 8, 2007 |title=''.hack // Sign'' Voice Box Review |last=Synger |first=Lauren |work=DVDVisionJapan |access-date=March 24, 2007}}</ref> Lineberger, in contrast, finds the English dub to be "antiseptic and uninspired".<ref name = "verdict"/> Bamboo Dong of [[Anime News Network]] thinks for her part that Mimiru sounded bland and poorly executed, but overall, the actors did a good job "delivering their lines and giving life to their characters."<ref name = "dong"/>

Ridwan Khan of Animefringe welcomes the "excellent" ''.hack//Sign'' score composed by Yuki Kajiura,<ref name = "strain"/> which is hailed by Mark McPherson from Anime Boredom as "the best orchestrated track ever made for a television series".<ref name = "boredom"/> Most reviewers agree that the soundtrack is one of the series<nowiki>'</nowiki> most prominent features.<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "verdict"/><ref name = "a-academy"/> A negative criticism on the music is that it tends to overwhelm the dialogue in the first couple of episodes.<ref name = "jump"/><ref name = "plot"/> Kōichi Mashimo has stated that he specifically had the music louder than the dialogue as he tried to do some experimentation, and it was his intent to draw complaints from the audience.<ref name="expo-koichi"/> Still, Chris Beveridge thinks it is an "interesting device to sort of ratchet up the speed of things."<ref name = "plot"/>

==Notes and references==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Wikiquote}}
{{Portal|Anime and manga|Japan|left = }}
* [http://www.hack.channel.or.jp/ Official Bandai Namco ''.hack'' website] {{in lang|ja}}
* [http://www.cyberconnect2.jp/hack/ Official Cyberconnect ''.hack//Sign'' website] {{in lang|ja}}
* {{anime News Network|anime|605}}
* {{IMDb title|361140}}

{{.hack}}
{{Bee Train}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Hack Sign}}
[[Category:.hack anime and manga|Sign]]
[[Category:2002 anime OVAs]]
[[Category:2002 anime television series debuts]]
[[Category:Adventure anime and manga]]
[[Category:Anime composed by Yuki Kajiura]]
[[Category:Bandai Entertainment anime titles]]
[[Category:Bandai Visual]]
[[Category:Bee Train Production]]
[[Category:Fantasy anime and manga]]
[[Category:Funimation]]
[[Category:Madman Entertainment anime]]
[[Category:Fiction about shapeshifting]]
[[Category:TV Tokyo original programming]]
[[Category:Fiction about amnesia]]