The immensely popular *Fate* anime series, while seemingly complex, becomes much easier to navigate 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. With the recent release of a remastered, officially translated *Fate/stay night* on Steam and Nintendo Switch, accessing the source material is easier than ever. However, the anime remains a fantastic entry point for newcomers.
The original *Fate/stay night* visual novel features three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each offering unique battles, character interactions, and storylines. This branching narrative explains the existence of multiple anime series, each named after its corresponding route.
The sheer number of *Fate* spin-offs can be overwhelming, but a logical watch order exists to provide a solid introduction to the series' core concepts and characters.
Which *Fate* Anime Should You Watch First?
While opinions vary, beginning with the 2006 *Fate/stay night* anime offers the clearest introduction. Although not a perfect adaptation, it follows the "Fate" route of the visual novel, showcasing crucial moments in Saber's character arc. While it might spoil elements from *Unlimited Blade Works* and *Heaven's Feel*, some degree of spoiling is unavoidable regardless of viewing order. Starting with *Fate/stay night* (2006) provides the most foundational understanding.
All *Fate* anime are available on Crunchyroll (free trial), and many are also available on physical media.
The Best *Fate/stay night* Series Watch Order
While flexible, an ideal watch order enhances comprehension:
- Fate/stay night (2006): Introduces the core concepts and characters.
- Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015): Focuses on Rin Tohsaka and explores the second route.
- Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] I. presage flower
- Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] II. lost butterfly
- Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] III. spring song
- Fate/Zero: A prequel that, while not chronologically first, provides context without spoiling major plot points from *Unlimited Blade Works*.
How to Watch *Fate* Anime Spin-offs
Most *Fate* spin-offs can be watched in any order. However, the *Fate/Grand Order* series, based on the mobile game, requires a specific order (detailed below).
Other Spin-offs (order 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 enhances appreciation. The anime adaptations cover Part 1's eight Singularities (each a self-contained Holy Grail War):
- Fate/Grand Order: First Order
- Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram
- Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram
- Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia
- 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 more to come. Other projects, including a *Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya* sequel and a *Witch on the Holy Night* movie adaptation, are also in development.
