How Do I Watch Fate Series In Order

How to Watch the Fate Series in Order: A Comprehensive Guide

The Fate series, with its sprawling narratives, multiple timelines, and diverse cast of characters, can be daunting for newcomers. If you're looking to dive into this popular anime franchise, understanding the correct viewing order is essential. This guide provides a clear path through the Fate universe, ensuring you experience the story as intended.

The Recommended Viewing Order

While there are debates about the "best" order, this approach is generally considered the most accessible and rewarding for new viewers. It balances plot reveals with character introductions, minimizing confusion and maximizing enjoyment.

1. Fate/stay night (2006): While not the most visually impressive, this series serves as a good introduction to the core concepts of the Fate universe, including the Holy Grail War, Servants, and Masters. It adapts the "Fate" route of the visual novel.
2. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015): This is a visually stunning adaptation of the "Unlimited Blade Works" route. Many consider this a superior starting point to the 2006 series due to its improved animation and pacing. However, watching the 2006 version first provides a more complete understanding of the initial setup.
3. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] Trilogy (Films): Comprising three films – I. Presage Flower, II. Lost Butterfly, and III. Spring Song – this trilogy adapts the "Heaven's Feel" route. These films are darker and more mature than previous adaptations, with incredible animation and intense action sequences. It's important to watch them in the correct order: Presage Flower, then Lost Butterfly, then Spring Song.
4. Fate/Zero: A prequel to Fate/stay night, Fate/Zero explores the events of the Fourth Holy Grail War. Watching it after the main Fate/stay night routes allows you to appreciate the context and foreshadowing woven into the story. Knowing the future events of Fate/stay night enriches the experience of Fate/Zero.

Spin-offs and Alternate Universes

Once you've completed the main story arc, you can explore the various spin-offs and alternate universes within the Fate franchise. These offer different perspectives, storylines, and characters, expanding the world in exciting ways.

1. Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya: A magical girl spin-off featuring Illyasviel von Einzbern as the main character. It's a lighter and more comedic take on the Fate universe.
2. Fate/Apocrypha: Set in an alternate timeline where the Holy Grail War takes on a larger scale, with two opposing factions battling for control.
3. Fate/Grand Order: A popular mobile game with a sprawling storyline that has been adapted into several anime series and films. The anime adaptations include Fate/Grand Order - First Order, Fate/Grand Order - Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia, and Fate/Grand Order - Divine Realm of the Round Table: Camelot. Start with First Order to get a grasp on the core story.
4. Lord El-Melloi II's Case Files {Rail Zeppelin} Grace note: A mystery series focusing on Lord El-Melloi II (Waver Velvet from Fate/Zero) as he solves magical cases.
5. Today's Menu for the Emiya Family: A slice-of-life series featuring the characters from Fate/stay night in a peaceful setting where they cook and share meals. A lighthearted break from the intensity of the Holy Grail War.
6. Fate/Extra Last Encore: An anime adaptation of the Fate/Extra video game, taking place in a virtual world. It is known for its unique visual style and complex narrative.

Important Considerations

Several factors can influence your viewing experience. Keep these points in mind as you navigate the Fate series:

• Visual Novel Origins: The Fate series is based on a visual novel. The anime adaptations often condense or alter aspects of the original source material.
• Alternate Timelines: Be aware that many of the spin-offs and adaptations occur in alternate timelines, meaning they are not necessarily connected to the main Fate/stay night storyline in a direct, linear fashion.
• Character Connections: While each series can often be enjoyed independently, understanding the relationships and backstories of key characters will enhance your overall appreciation.
• Animation Quality: The animation quality varies significantly across the different series. Some older adaptations may look dated compared to newer ones.

Why This Order Works

This viewing order is designed to introduce you to the core elements of the Fate universe – the Holy Grail War, the Servants, the Masters, and the key characters – in a gradual and digestible manner. Starting with Fate/stay night or Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works provides a foundation upon which you can build your understanding of the world. Then, experiencing the Heaven's Feel trilogy offers a darker and more mature perspective on the same events. Finally, watching Fate/Zero as a prequel provides valuable context and backstory, enriching your appreciation of the entire saga. It allows you to fully grasp the motivations and histories of the characters, as well as the intricate web of relationships that tie them together.

Navigating the Fate Universe

The Fate series is a rich and rewarding experience for anime fans. By following this viewing order, you can avoid confusion and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Holy Grail War, heroic spirits, and complex characters. Remember to be patient, take your time, and enjoy the journey. As you delve deeper into the Fate universe, you'll discover new layers of meaning and appreciation for this beloved franchise.

Enjoy exploring the vast and fascinating world of Fate!