The Fate series stands as a towering achievement in the anime world, renowned for its complexity and expansive universe. With its roots deeply embedded in the 2004 visual novel, Fate/stay night, created by Type-Moon, the series has grown to encompass over 20 anime projects, including numerous spinoffs across different media such as manga, games, and light novels. For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, understanding the watch order can significantly enhance your appreciation of the series. Here, we'll guide you through the best ways to experience the Fate anime universe.
Jump to:
- Which Fate anime to watch first
- Fate Stay/night watch order
- Fate/Grand Order watch order
- Fate anime spinoffs
What Is Fate?
The entire Fate franchise originated from the visual novel Fate/stay night, developed by Type-Moon, founded by Kinoko Nasu and Takashi Takeuchi. Nasu penned the narrative, while Takeuchi handled the visual art. Originally available only in Japanese, the visual novel's impact was primarily felt through its anime adaptations. However, in late 2024, an English remastered version was released, playable on Steam and Nintendo Switch, broadening its accessibility.
Fate/stay night offers three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each with unique battles, character interactions, and plot developments. Despite starting similarly with protagonist Shirou Emiya being drawn into the Holy Grail War, the routes diverge significantly. Consequently, there are three corresponding anime series, each named after their respective route.
As the series expanded, it birthed numerous spinoffs, each exploring different facets of the Fate universe, making it a labyrinthine yet fascinating journey for viewers.
Which Fate Anime Should You Watch First?
For those embarking on their Fate journey, starting with the 2006 anime Fate/stay night is recommended. This series primarily adapts the Fate route and introduces key elements like the Holy Grail War, Masters, and Servants, along with pivotal moments in Saber's character arc. Although it's not a flawless adaptation, it serves as a foundational entry point into the series, despite spoiling some elements for the other routes.
How to Watch the Fate Anime
All Fate anime are available on Crunchyroll with a free trial. For those who prefer physical copies, many of the main series and spinoff movies are also available as Blu-ray sets.
### Fate/stay night: Complete Collection (Blu-ray)
0See it at Amazon
### Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (Complete Box Set)
0See it at Crunchyroll
### Fate/Zero (Complete Box Set)
0See it at Crunchyroll
### Fate/Grand Order - Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia (Box Set I)
0See it at Crunchyroll
### Fate/kaleid liner PRISMA ILLYA Complete Collection
0See it at Amazon
The Best Fate/stay night Series Watch Order
While the Fate series can be enjoyed in various orders due to its non-chronological nature, a specific sequence can enhance your understanding and enjoyment:
1. Fate/stay night (2006)
Start with the Studio Deen adaptation of Fate/stay night. This series introduces you to the Holy Grail War and its participants, focusing on Shirou Emiya's journey.
2. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015)
Next, dive into the second route with Unlimited Blade Works. This series, split into two seasons, delves deeper into the world of Fate, focusing on Rin Tohsaka and her interactions with Shirou.
Note: Opt for the series over the movie for a more comprehensive experience.
3. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] I. presage flower
Begin the Heaven's Feel trilogy with presage flower. This movie introduces the third route, centered around Sakura Matou and the escalating conflict in Fuyuki City.
4. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] II. lost butterfly
Continue with lost butterfly, which further unravels the Heaven's Feel storyline, showcasing major shifts in the narrative.
5. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] III. spring song
Conclude the Heaven's Feel saga with spring song, featuring some of the most visually stunning battles and a satisfying narrative closure.
6. Fate/Zero
Finally, watch Fate/Zero, a prequel set during the 4th Holy Grail War. Despite being a prequel, it's best watched after the main series to avoid spoilers for Unlimited Blade Works.
How to Watch Fate Anime Spinoffs
After exploring the main Fate/stay night series, you can delve into the numerous spinoffs. Most of these can be watched in any order, as they are generally standalone stories set in different time periods with unique rules for their Holy Grail Wars. However, the Fate/Grand Order series follows a specific storyline and should be watched in order.
Fate Spinoff Watch Order
The following spinoffs can be enjoyed in any order:
- 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
Fate/Grand Order originates from a mobile game that follows the Chaldea Security Organization's efforts to prevent humanity's extinction by resolving Singularity events. The anime adaptations cover Part 1 of the game's story, which includes eight Singularities. Here's the recommended watch order:
1. Fate/Grand Order: First Order
Start with the prologue, First Order, which sets the stage for the Chaldea Security Organization's mission.
2. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram
Follow with the first movie of the 6th Singularity, set in 1273 A.D. in Jerusalem.
3. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram
Continue with the second movie, which concludes the 6th Singularity.
4. Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia
Next, watch the fan-favorite Babylonia arc, set in ancient Uruk.
5. Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon
Conclude with the Final Singularity, which wraps up the Observer on Timeless Temple storyline.
What's Next for the Fate Anime?
The Fate universe continues to expand with new projects. The latest addition, Fate/strange Fake, premiered its first episode on December 31, 2024, with the remainder of the season expected in 2025. Type-Moon is also working on a sequel to Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya - Licht Nameless Girl and a movie adaptation of the 2012 visual novel Witch on the Holy Night.
Whether you're just starting or looking to explore further, the Fate series offers a rich tapestry of stories and characters that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
