The .hack//Series is a multimedia franchise created by Bandai Namco Entertainment that includes video games, anime, manga, and novels. It centers around a fictional MMORPG called .hack//The World, where players experience adventures and challenges. The story often explores themes of virtual reality, identity, and the impact of technology on society. The franchise began with the release of the .hack//Infection video game in 2002 and has since expanded into various sequels and adaptations. Key characters include Haseo, Tsukasa, and Kite, who navigate the complexities of the game world while uncovering mysteries and confronting real-world issues.