Reader’s Question:
Can you tell me about the Fate anime? There are so many series, and I want to watch them all, but I don’t have much time. Is there a specific one that I should focus on? I’ve started watching Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] a bit.

Divine Choices: Navigating the
Fate Anime Series

As a fan who has dived deep into the world of anime, I can’t help but relate to your predicament. The Fate series can feel like a labyrinth of choices, timelines, and characters that might leave anyone feeling a tad overwhelmed, especially when time is scarce. You’re already on the right path by starting with Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works]—it’s a beautiful entry point, but there’s so much more to explore if you’re willing to take the plunge.

Understanding the Fate Universe

So, let’s break it down. The Fate series is essentially a sprawling narrative that branches out into various adaptations and spin-offs, all tied together by the concept of the Holy Grail War. This mystical battle brings together heroes from history and myth, summoned as Servants to compete for the ultimate prize: the Holy Grail. Each series explores different routes and character arcs, with unique takes on familiar themes of love, sacrifice, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Now, if you’re short on time (and who isn’t these days?), you’ll want to focus your efforts wisely. Here’s my take on a viewing order that will allow you to soak in the essence of the Fate universe without feeling like you’re drowning in too many choices.

Starting from the Beginning: Fate/stay night

My strong recommendation? Begin with the original Fate/stay night anime from 2006. Yes, I know, it might feel a bit dated compared to the stunning visuals of [Unlimited Blade Works], but trust me—this series lays the foundation for everything that follows. It introduces you to key characters like Shirou Emiya, Saber, and the entire premise of the Holy Grail War. While it’s true that this adaptation has some pacing issues and lacks the polished animation of later series, it’s essential for understanding character motivations and background stories. Plus, it has some exclusive plot points that are referenced in later series, making it a worthwhile watch.

Next Stop: Unlimited Blade Works

After you’ve soaked in the 2006 version, it’s time to dive into Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] from 2014. This series is a visual feast with top-notch animation courtesy of Ufotable. The character development is richer, and the action sequences are spectacular—those battles are truly breathtaking! The beauty of this series lies in its fresh take on the original story, focusing on a different heroine, Rin Tohsaka, while still retaining the spirit of Shirou and Saber’s connection. It challenges the viewers’ expectations and throws some exciting twists and turns along the way. If you want to experience the Fate series at its finest, this one’s a must-watch.

The Dark Turn: Heaven’s Feel Trilogy

Now, if you’re feeling brave, jump into the Fate/stay night: Heaven’s Feel trilogy. I should warn you that this series takes a darker turn, especially as it focuses on Sakura Matou—another pivotal character whose story is often overshadowed in the other adaptations. The trilogy explores deeper themes of trauma and sacrifice, all while maintaining the stunning animation quality. However, I advise you to have a firm grip on the mechanics of the Holy Grail War before diving into this one. It’s a culmination of the entire Fate saga, and having prior knowledge will enhance your viewing experience immensely.

Exploring Fate/zero

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also consider Fate/Zero, which serves as a prequel to Fate/stay night. It’s written by Gen Urobuchi, known for his dark storytelling, and it provides a gripping backstory to the characters we come to love in Fate/stay night. The animation quality is also stellar, and it introduces themes of morality and the cost of one’s desires. Just be mindful that it might spoil some plot points for Unlimited Blade Works and Heaven’s Feel, so watch those first if you want to avoid spoilers.

What About the Spin-offs?

The Fate franchise has plenty of spin-offs like Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya, Fate/Apocrypha, and Fate/Extra Last Encore. Honestly, these can be watched in whatever order you fancy since they exist in alternate universes with different storylines and character dynamics. Some of them are fun and entertaining (I personally enjoyed Prisma☆Illya for its unique take on the characters), but they won’t give you the core experience of the main storyline. Ultimately, it depends on what you want from your viewing experience. If you’re here for epic battles and deep character development, you can never go wrong with the main series.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while it’s easy to get lost in the myriad of choices in the Fate universe, focusing on the core series is your best bet if time is a constraint. Trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop—there’s something captivating about the moral dilemmas and character arcs that keep beckoning you back. So grab some snacks, find a cozy spot, and embark on your journey through the Fate series. Happy watching!