Reader’s Question:
Can you tell me the order in which to watch the Fate series? I’m currently watching the 2005 version of Fate/stay night, and the app I’m using has the following series available. I’d like to know the best order to watch them in. Also, should I consider watching the
Prisma☆Illya series as well? – Fate/Grand Order -MOONLIGHT/LOSTROOM- – Fate/strange Fake -Whispers of Dawn- – Fate/Grand Order -First Order- – Fate/EXTRA Last Encore – Fate/stay night UNLIMITED BLADE WORKS (movie) – Fate/Grand Order -絶対魔獣戦線バビロニア- – Fate/Zero – TVアニメ「Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works]」 – Fate/Apocrypha
Your Ultimate Guide to Watching the Fate Series
So, you’ve just dived into the world of Fate with the 2005 version of Fate/stay night, and now you’re wondering how to navigate this sprawling universe filled with heroic spirits, epic battles, and deep lore. Trust me, I’ve been there—trying to piece together which series to watch can be like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded!
The Fate series offers a mix of timelines, spin-offs, and adaptations that can easily confuse even seasoned anime fans. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you untangle this web of magic and mayhem. Let’s break it down into a viewing order that makes sense and keeps the excitement flowing!
Starting Point: The Basics
First off, since you’re watching the 2005 Fate/stay night, you’re already on the right track. This is where the story kicks off, and it’s essential to understand its characters and themes. However, a lot of fans agree that the subsequent adaptations provide a more polished experience.
After you finish this, I highly recommend jumping straight into Fate/Zero. It’s a prequel to Fate/stay night and dives deep into the backstories of the characters that you will encounter later. Plus, it’s produced by Ufotable, known for their stunning animation quality. Watching Fate/Zero right after the original series will give you a heart-pounding experience, making you feel the stakes of the Holy Grail War even more.
The Core Series: Following the Main Path
Once you’ve absorbed Fate/Zero, it’s time to tackle Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (UBW). I suggest watching the TV series version instead of the movie; it gives you a more extensive look at the characters and their development. The animation is gorgeous, and you’ll find yourself rooting for the heroes and their struggles all over again.
Now, if you’re curious about the Fate universe’s various spin-offs and adaptations, let’s sprinkle those in. One that I really enjoyed was Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya. It’s a magical girl spin-off, and while it’s quite different in tone, it’s surprisingly entertaining! It’s like a delightful dessert after a big meal—something lighthearted yet still packed with all the charm you’d expect from Fate.
Expanding the Universe
Once you’ve got the core series under your belt, the next options are Fate/Apocrypha and Fate/EXTRA Last Encore. These series take place in alternate timelines, allowing you to explore different facets of the Fate universe without feeling like you’re missing something essential. They both contain unique characters and stories that expand upon the lore established by the main series.
I remember starting Fate/Apocrypha and being pleasantly surprised by its fresh take. The new characters and dynamics kept it interesting, and it felt like a fun “what if” scenario. If you’re feeling adventurous, give it a shot!
Delving into Fate/Grand Order
Now, let’s talk about Fate/Grand Order. This franchise originated as a mobile game, and it’s massive! The anime adaptations like Fate/Grand Order -First Order- and Fate/Grand Order -絶対魔獣戦線バビロニア- are fun but can be a bit disjointed if you haven’t played the game. If you’re a gamer at heart and have some time, I’d highly recommend diving into the game first. You’ll get the full experience, but if you’re just here for the anime, you can still enjoy the adaptations.
After watching the initial Fate/Grand Order series, you can explore the additional films like Fate/Grand Order –神聖円卓領域キャメロット- and Fate/Grand Order –終局特異点 冠位時間神殿ソロモン-. These films serve as a culmination of what you’ve seen in the series, and watching them provides a satisfying conclusion to the arcs presented.
For the Extra Stuff
If you’re still hungry for more Fate content, don’t sleep on the lighthearted spin-offs. Shows like Carnival Phantasm and Fate/Grand Carnival are perfect for some comedic relief. They poke fun at the series’ serious moments while still delivering plenty of fan service.
And let’s not forget about the adorable, slice-of-life show, Fate/Emiya-san Chi no Kyou no Gohan. It’s a great way to wind down after the intense battles and drama of the main series and offers a different perspective on the characters you’ve come to know and love.
Final Thoughts: To Prisma☆Illya or Not?
You asked whether to consider watching the Prisma☆Illya series, and I’d say definitely give it a try! It’s a unique take on the Fate universe, and while it may seem like it’s aimed at a younger audience, the storytelling and character arcs are surprisingly deep. I found myself laughing one moment and feeling emotional the next—definitely a rollercoaster ride!
Ultimately, the Fate series is a vast tapestry of stories, characters, and timelines. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and the best way to enjoy it is to follow your interests. Take your time, savor each series, and let yourself get lost in the world of the Holy Grail Wars.
So grab your snacks, cozy up, and prepare for an epic anime marathon. You’re in for a wild ride, and who knows—you might find a new favorite character along the way!
