The immensely popular Fate anime series, while seemingly complex, becomes easily navigable once its origins are understood. Born from the 2004 visual novel, Fate/stay night, created by Type-Moon's Kinoko Nasu (story) and Takashi Takeuchi (art), the series boasts over 20 anime projects. With the recent 2024 release of the officially translated Fate/stay night REMASTERED on Steam and Nintendo Switch, experiencing the source material is now easier than ever. However, the anime adaptations remain a compelling entry point.
Fate/stay night features three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each offering unique battles, character interactions, and storylines. While all begin similarly with Shirou Emiya thrust into the Holy Grail War, their paths diverge significantly. This branching narrative is reflected in the three anime series based on these routes.
The sheer number of Fate spin-offs can be overwhelming. Fortunately, a logical viewing order exists, providing a smooth introduction to the series' core concepts.
Which Fate Anime Should You Watch First?
While opinions vary, Fate/stay night (2006) offers the clearest introduction. Though not a perfect adaptation, it follows the "Fate" route, crucial for understanding Saber's character arc. While it spoils elements from later routes, this is unavoidable regardless of viewing order. Starting here provides a foundational understanding of the series' premise.
How to Watch the Fate Anime
Most Fate anime are available on Crunchyroll (free trial available). Physical releases of major series and films are also available for collectors.
The Best Fate/stay night Series Watch Order
While flexible, an ideal viewing order enhances understanding:
1. Fate/stay night (2006)
Introduces the core concepts of Masters, Servants, and the Holy Grail War through Shirou Emiya's involvement.
2. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015)
Focuses on Rin Tohsaka, intertwining her path with Shirou's. (Watch the series, not the movie.)
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 Heaven's Feel route, centering on Sakura Matou and offering significant narrative shifts.
6. Fate/Zero
A prequel following Kiritsugu Emiya in the 4th Holy Grail War. While potentially viewed earlier, it may spoil aspects of Unlimited Blade Works.
How to Watch Fate Anime Spinoffs
Most spin-offs (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) can be watched independently. However, Fate/Grand Order requires a specific order.
Fate/Grand Order Watch Order
Understanding the Fate/Grand Order mobile game context is beneficial. The anime covers Part 1's eight Singularities (each a separate Holy Grail War). The anime adaptations cover the Prologue and Singularities 6-8; the first five require playing the game.
1. Fate/Grand Order: First Order
2. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram
3. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram
4. Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia
5. Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon
What's Next for the Fate Anime?
The Fate franchise continues to expand. Fate/strange Fake premiered its first episode, with the rest of season 1 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.
