Reader’s Question:
I’m trying to watch the anime “Fate” on Prime Video, but I’m not sure which series is the first one. Is there a remake as well?

Starting Your Journey with the “Fate” Series

So, you’re diving into the vast universe of the “Fate” anime series? Welcome aboard! As a fellow
anime enthusiast, I can say that stepping into the world of “Fate” is like embarking on an epic journey filled with intricate plots, breathtaking battles, and some seriously complex characters. It can be intimidating, but fear not—I’m here to help you navigate through it!

Where to Begin: The Right Starting Point

First things first, if you’re looking to kick off your adventure in the “Fate” universe, I’d recommend starting with “Fate/stay night.” This series is the cornerstone of the entire franchise, and it’s where the story really begins. Now, there are a couple of different adaptations out there, and it can get a bit confusing. The original “Fate/stay night” anime aired in 2006, produced by Studio Deen, and consists of 24 episodes. While the animation might feel a bit dated compared to newer series, it provides a solid foundation for understanding the overall story and characters. Think of it like reading the first chapter of a book—it sets the stage for everything that follows. If you’re someone who enjoys visual flair and high-octane battles, you might want to skip straight to “Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works” from 2014 by ufotable. This version has stunning animation and a slightly different take on the narrative, focusing on the character Rin Tohsaka. It’s widely regarded as a great entry point for newcomers because it’s visually appealing and engaging, even if you’re not familiar with the backstory.

Exploring the Other Routes

Now, here’s where things get interesting (and a bit complicated). “Fate/stay night” is based on a visual novel with multiple story routes. The choices you make can lead to different outcomes, which means there’s a lot of content to explore. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might consider playing the visual novel itself, which offers a deeper understanding of the characters and plot. There’s also “Fate/stay night: Heaven’s Feel,” a trilogy of films released between 2017 and 2020. This set dives into the darker aspects of the story, focusing on Sakura Matou. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, beautifully animated, and is definitely a must-see after you get a grip on the initial story. However, I’d suggest saving it for after you’ve watched the first two adaptations to avoid confusion—trust me, it’s a wild ride.

What About “Fate/Zero”?

If you’re curious about the backstory, “Fate/Zero” is a prequel that aired in 2011 and is based on a light novel by Gen Urobuchi. It provides crucial context for the events of “Fate/stay night,” focusing on the Fourth Holy Grail War. However, I’d recommend watching it after you’ve seen “Fate/stay night,” as jumping into “Fate/Zero” first might spoil some surprises—there’s a reason it’s called a prequel! “Hearing how main characters are intertwined and how their motivations are shaped by past events adds a layer of depth that’s absolutely fascinating. Sometimes I caught myself thinking, ‘Wow, no wonder they act like that!’”

Navigating the Spin-offs

As you delve deeper into the “Fate” universe, you’ll notice a plethora of spin-offs and alternate universes, like “Fate/kaleid liner: Prisma☆Illya” and “Fate/Apocrypha.” While these are set in different worlds, they still capture the essence of what makes “Fate” so compelling. Depending on your mood, you might want to check them out as well. The beauty of the “Fate” franchise lies in its ability to tell different stories within the same framework. Each adaptation brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the character focus or the animation style. I’ve often found myself getting lost in discussions about which adaptation is the best, and honestly, it’s a subjective matter.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

At the end of the day, there’s no wrong way to experience the “Fate” series. Whether you choose to start with the original “Fate/stay night” or jump into the visually stunning “Unlimited Blade Works,” what matters most is that you enjoy the journey. Just remember: take your time and savor each episode. There’s a lot to unpack in the “Fate” universe, and every character, every fight, and every twist brings its own flavor to the story. Don’t hesitate to dive into the visual novel if you want a deeper understanding or revisit different adaptations to see how the story shifts based on the perspective. Happy watching, and may your Holy Grail War be filled with excitement!