The immensely popular *Fate* anime series, while seemingly complex, becomes surprisingly accessible once you understand its origins. Born from the 2004 visual novel *Fate/stay night*, created by Type-Moon's Kinoko Nasu (story) and Takashi Takeuchi (art), the *Fate* universe boasts over 20 anime projects, making it a rewarding, albeit extensive, viewing experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this guide provides a clear path through the *Fate* anime.
With the late 2024 release of the fully translated *Fate/stay night REMASTERED* on Steam and Nintendo Switch, experiencing the source material is now easier than ever. However, the anime remains a fantastic entry point, especially given the visual novel's three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each offering unique storylines and character interactions. This branching narrative is reflected in the anime adaptations.
The sheer number of *Fate* spinoffs can be overwhelming. This guide provides a structured watch order, introducing the series' core concepts and characters.
Jump to:
- Which *Fate* Anime to Watch First
- *Fate/stay night* Watch Order
- *Fate/Grand Order* Watch Order
- *Fate* Anime Spinoffs
- What Is *Fate*?
For years, accessibility to the original *Fate/stay night* visual novel was limited. The anime adaptations served as the primary way to experience the story. Now, with the remastered version, viewers have a choice.
The three routes of *Fate/stay night*—Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel—each offer a distinct narrative arc, beginning with Shirou Emiya's involvement in the Holy Grail War. The ensuing events differ significantly across these routes, resulting in three separate anime series.
The *Fate* series has expanded dramatically, creating a diverse array of spinoffs. This guide offers a logical viewing order to navigate this expansive universe.
Which *Fate* Anime Should You Watch First?
While opinions vary, starting with the 2006 *Fate/stay night* anime offers the clearest introduction to the series. Though not a perfect adaptation, it follows the "Fate" route of the visual novel, including crucial moments of Saber's character arc. While this might spoil elements of *Unlimited Blade Works* and *Heaven's Feel*, some degree of spoiling is unavoidable regardless of viewing order.
How to Watch the *Fate* Anime
Most *Fate* anime are available on Crunchyroll (with a free trial). Physical releases of many series and films are also available for collectors.
The Best *Fate/stay night* Series Watch Order
While the *Fate* series allows flexibility in viewing order, this suggested sequence provides the most cohesive understanding:
1. *Fate/stay night* (2006)
This serves as an excellent introduction, establishing the core concepts of Masters, Servants, and the Holy Grail War. It follows Shirou Emiya's unexpected entry into this conflict.
2. *Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works* (2014-2015)
Focusing on Rin Tohsaka, this series (the 2014-2015 series, not the movie) explores the second route, showcasing the intertwining paths of Shirou and Rin in their pursuit of the Holy Grail.
3. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* I. presage flower
4. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* II. lost butterfly
5. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* III. spring song
This movie trilogy adapts the final route, centering on Sakura Matou and offering significant narrative shifts from the previous routes. It culminates in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant conclusion.
6. *Fate/Zero*
This prequel, while not chronologically first, provides context and background. However, be aware it might spoil elements of *Unlimited Blade Works*. It explores the 4th Holy Grail War through the perspective of Kiritsugu Emiya.
How to Watch *Fate* Anime Spinoffs
After completing the core *Fate/stay night* adaptations, numerous spinoffs are available. Most can be watched in any order, as they are largely self-contained stories. However, the *Fate/Grand Order* series requires a specific viewing order.
*Fate* Spinoff Watch Order (Order is Flexible):
- Today's Menu for the Emiya Family
- Lord El-Melloi II Case Files
- Fate/Prototype
- Fate/strange Fake: Whispers of Dawn
- Fate/Apocrypha
- Fate/EXTRA Last Encore
- Fate/kaleid liner PRISMA ILLYA
- Carnival Phantasm
*Fate/Grand Order* Watch Order
Understanding the *Fate/Grand Order* mobile game context is helpful. The anime adapts the game's story, focusing on the Chaldea Security Organization's mission to prevent humanity's extinction. Each Singularity represents a different Holy Grail War.
1. *Fate/Grand Order: First Order*
This prologue introduces Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash Kyrielight's mission to investigate and resolve the Fuyuki City Singularity.
2. *Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram*
3. *Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram*
These two films cover the 6th Singularity, set in 1273 A.D. Jerusalem.
4. *Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia*
This popular arc is set in Uruk.
5. *Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon*
This concludes the main storyline.
What's Next for the *Fate* Anime?
The *Fate* franchise continues to expand. *Fate/strange Fake* premiered its first episode in late 2024, with more episodes expected in 2025. Other projects, including a *Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya* sequel and a *Witch on the Holy Night* movie adaptation, are also in development.
