i don't mean development in general, but "good" development..
if he's actually getting stronger, it should be more apparent rather than toning it down just so the bitches have something to do (i.e. save him, train him)
SAO got awesome fight scenes too. I really like a character with swords rather than dagger, but character with dagger usually got a better agility and flexible, the way they attack isn't a simply just going forward and attack. They're just unique but the character is just as good, when they can moves their swords smoothly and accurately they're cool too. Look look.