Fate Series Anime Watch Orders

The Fate series is a difficult and vast anime franchise that can be challenging for novices to learn about. But, with the right direction, exploring this amazing universe and appreciating everything it offers is possible.

First, realizing the Fate series isn’t a linear narrative is crucial. It’s more of an amalgamation of different timelines, alternate universes, and alternate retellings of the same story. This means that the sequence in which you experience the various episodes in the series could affect your overall knowledge and enjoyment.

The recommended order to watch The Fate Collection is as follows:

• Fate/Stay Night (2006) or Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014)
• Fate/Zero
• Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel movie trilogy
• Fate/Apocrypha
• Fate/Grand Order: First Order
• Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia
• Fate/Extra Last Encore
• Lord El-Melloi II Case Files

The purpose of this order is to allow you to experience different alternate universes and timelines in an understandable manner that builds on your prior knowledge. The original Fate/Stay Night anime from 2006 or the more recent Unlimited Blade Works adaptation are excellent starting points for the series because they present the basic notions of the world and the principal characters.

Following that, Fate/Zero is the next obvious step since it functions as an introduction to the story of Fate/Stay Night and provides valuable background information. Heaven’s Feel is the final installment in the Heaven’s Feel movie trilogy and the last chapter of the Fate/Stay Night visual novel. Therefore, it’s recommended to take a look after you’ve watched the previous entries in the series.

Fate/Apocrypha, the Fate/Grand Order: The First Order, the Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia, and Fate/Extra Last Encore are all alternate universes that are set in various timelines and settings and can be viewed in any sequence following you’ve seen the first three installments within the show. Lord El-Melloi II: Case Files is a spinoff that concentrates on a secondary character from Fate/Zero and is available to watch any time after the series.

The Chronological Watch’s Timetable

The Fate series is famous for its intricate and non-linear storytelling, featuring numerous timelines and alternative universes that viewers must follow. If you prefer watching the show in chronological order, this guide will help you:

• Fate/Zero: Fate/Zero is an ephemeris in the story of Fate/Stay Night and is set 10 years before the events in the original series. It is a story about the Fourth Holy Grail War that occurred before Fate/Stay Night events. While watching Fate/Zero initially will provide important context and background about the world of the Fate series and introduce you to the characters who have a significant role to play in the sequels,
• Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works: Unlimited Blade Works is an adaptation of the second storyline of the Fate/Stay Night visual novel. It is set after what happened in Fate/Zero but before the events of Fate/Stay Night (2006). Watching it in this sequence will provide a better comprehension of the events taking form in the first Fate/Stay Night anime.
• Fate/Stay Night (2006): The Original Fate/Stay Night anime follows the events in Fate/Zero along with Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works. The story is about the Fifth Holy Grail War, which takes place on a similar timeline to the ones of Fate/Zero. The last time you watch this show, you will have a complete understanding of the events happening in this timeline.
• Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel is a trilogy that tells the third and last chapter in the Fate/Stay Night visual novel. It is set in the same timeframe as the incidents in Fate/Stay Night (2006) but offers a different perspective. It is worth watching it at the end to provide a better comprehension of the entire background of Fate/Stay Night.
• Fate/Apocrypha: Fate/Apocrypha occurs in a different timeline than the original Fate series and has an entirely different cast of characters. It is set in a world where a change in the Holy Grail War has been modified, and two groups of seven servants battle to take it. Although it’s not directly tied to the main plot of The Fate Series, it’s worth watching as a separate installment.
• Fate/Grand Order: First Order: Fate/Grand Order: First Order is an adaptation of the prologue section in the Fate/Grand Order mobile game. It is set in an alternate timeline from the original Fate series. It follows the main character, Ritsuka Fujimaru, as she becomes an official member of Chaldea, an organization committed to preserving human historical records.
• Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia: Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia is an adaptation of the seventh chapter in the Fate/Grand Order mobile game. It is set after the events in Fate/Grand Order: First Order and follows Ritsuka and their servant Mash on their journey to the capital, Babylon, to stop the world’s destruction.
• Fate/Extra Last Encore: Fate/Extra The Last Encore game is an anime version of the Fate/Extra video game. It is set in a different timeline than those of the Fate series and follows the main character, Hakuno Kishinami, in their participation in a cyber-Holy Grail War.
• Lord El-Melloi II Case Files: Lord El-Melloi II Case Files is a spinoff from Fate/Zero. It takes place in the aftermath of the events of the original series. This series follows Waver Velvet, a supporting character from Fate/Zero, and his transformation into an instructor in the Mage’s Association, investigating mysteries connected to magecraft.

It is important to note this: The Fate series is renowned for its intricate and interconnected plot, and viewing the series chronologically is not the most effective way to comprehend the story. The non-linear approach to storytelling in the series is deliberate and usually leads to more impactful revelations or plot twists. However, if you want to watch the show chronologically, this arrangement should offer an effective and enjoyable viewing experience.

The Recommended Watch Purchase

• Fate/Stay Night (2006) or Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014): The original Fate/Stay Night anime from 2006 or the more recent Unlimited Blade Works adaptation are great beginning points in the franchise. They present the basics of the universe and the main characters. They also provide a great entry point for anyone new to the series. You can view either of them as the first episode of the series.
• Fate/Zero: Fate/Zero is an ephemeris in the series Fate/Stay Night and provides an important backstory and context to the events in that series. It is set 10 years before the events of Fate/Stay Night and tells the tale that takes place during the Fourth Holy Grail War. Watching it following Fate/Stay Night or the Unlimited Blade Works is recommended since it requires some familiarity with the Fate Universe.
• Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel: Heaven’s Feel is a trilogy that expands to the last and third storyline, the Fate/Stay Night visual novel. It is set in the same timeline as Fate/Stay the Night and provides a fresh viewpoint on events from the series. It’s suggested to watch it following Fate/Zero and Fate/Stay Night or after Unlimited Blade Works.
• Fate/Apocrypha: Fate/Apocrypha is the standalone installment within the Fate series. It takes place in a different world and is not part of the main storyline. It has a distinct set of characters and is set in a place where it is believed that the Holy Grail War has been modified. It’s suggested to watch Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel since it is based on knowledge of the Fate universe.                                                                Fate/Grand Order: First Order is an adaptation of the prologue episode of the Fate/Grand Order mobile game. The story takes place on a different timeline than the primary Fate series. It follows the main character, Ritsuka Fujimaru, when she is made an official member of Chaldea, an organization committed to preserving human history. It’s suggested to watch this following Fate/Apocrypha.
• Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia: Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia is an adaptation of the seventh chapter in the Fate/Grand Order mobile game. It is set after the events in Fate/Grand Order: First Order and follows Ritsuka and their servant Mash on their journey towards the ancient Babylonian city of Babylon to stop the universe’s destruction. It’s suggested to watch this after Fate/Grand Order: The Thest Order.
• Fate/Extra Last Encore: Fate/Extra The Last Encore game is an animated adaptation of the Fate/Extra video game. It takes place on an entirely separate timeline from the primary Fate series. It follows the main character, Hakuno Kishinami, in their participation in a virtual Holy Grail War. It’s suggested to watch this after the first episode of Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia.
• Lord El-Melloi II Case Files: Lord El-Melloi II Case Files is a spinoff from Fate/Zero and is set following the events of the original series. The story follows Waver Velvet, a secondary character from Fate/Zero, and his transformation into an instructor in the Mage’s Association. It solves mysteries that are related to magecraft. It is recommended to watch it following The Fate/Extra Last Encore.

What Is the Most Effective Fate Series to Begin With?

The most suitable Fate series, to begin with, will depend on your tastes and what you’re seeking in an anime. Here are a few suggestions based on various aspects:

• If you’re Just Beginning to Learn About the Fate Series and are Looking to Learn More About the Storyline: Fate/Stay Day (2006) or Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Work (2014) are the best places to start. These versions of the Fate/Stay Night visual novel introduce the basics of the universe and the main characters. They can be a great entry point for those new to the franchise.
• If You’re Looking To Go Through The Precursor For Fate/Stay Night: Fate/Zero is an ephemeris in the series Fate/Stay Night and provides valuable background information for the events in the series. It is set 10 years before Fate/Stay Night and is about the Fourth Holy Grail War. If you’re interested in discovering more about the background of The Fate Story and the events that led to the events in Fate/Stay Night, this book is an excellent place to start.
• If You’re Fascinated By Alternate Universes And Various Timelines: Fate/Apocrypha, the Fate/Grand Order: the First Order, and the Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia, along with Fate/Extra Last Encore, are set in various locations or timelines and include diverse characters. If you’re interested in learning more about the many alternate universes and possibilities of the Fate universe, any of these games could be a great start.
• If You’d Like To Experience An Off-Shoot Series With A Different Theme: Lord El-Melloi II Case Files is a spinoff from Fate/Zero, concentrating on a supporting character from the show, Waver Velvet. The story follows that of Fate/Zero, which follows Waver, an instructor of the Mage’s Association, as he solves mysteries related to magecraft. Suppose you’re interested in learning more about a different side of the Fate universe and seeing the same character play an entirely new role. In that case, this might be a great starting point.

The Fate series has become a complicated and expansive franchise, but with appropriate guidance, it’s possible to get into this exciting universe and appreciate the many things it offers. Whatever you decide to do, be prepared for lots of action, drama, and fascinating characters as you travel through the various worlds, timelines, and alternative universes in the Fate series.

Other Spinoffs or Adaptations

The Fate Collection is a diverse and rich series with something for any kind of anime fan. Whether you’re seeking comedy, action, drama, or something else, there’s likely to be an adaptation or spinoff of the Fate series that will meet your needs.

• Kaleid Liner/Fate Prisma Illya: Kaleid Liner from Fate Prisma Illya is an anime and manga spinoff series set in an alternate universe of the original Fate series. It follows Illyasviel of Einzbern, one of the characters in Fate/Stay Night, as she transforms into a magical girl and battles with other magical girls to collect Class Cards. The series is known for its fun characters and fan service, but it also has dark themes and moments. It’s important to note that this show is not considered part of the main Fate storyline and should be enjoyed as an individual episode.
• Carnival Phantasm: Carnival Phantasm is a humorous crossover anime that combines people from the Fate series and Tsukihime. Tsukihime visualizes a novel that takes place in the same world as Fate. The show is a mix of parodies, comedic skits, and an enjoyable and lighthearted spin on the characters and themes from Tsukihime and the Fate series. It’s important to note that this series requires some familiarity with these characters and the concepts from each of Fate and Tsukihime and is best taken in after you’ve seen or played through both of the series.
• Fate/Prototype: Fate/Prototype is a prototypical version that was a prototype version of Fate/Stay Night that was never fully realized as a full-fledged television series. It is the story of Ayaka Sajyou,a student at the Homur Academy who became involved in the Holy Grail War. The show features the same characters and concepts as Fate/Stay Night, however, with some significant plot and setting variations. Although it wasn’t completely adapted to an anime, it has been transformed into a manga and drama CD.
• Fake or Strange: Fate or Strange Fake is a novel-length novel in an alternate timeline to the original Fate series. It follows the mages and servants involved in a fictitious Holy Grail War being held in Snowfield, a small town in America. The show features various characters and explores themes of deceit and betrayal. It is important to note that the series hasn’t yet been made into an anime; however, there is a possibility of an adaptation soon.

Understanding the Various Fate Series

The Fate series is a vastly popular franchise with an intricate and interconnected plot. Each of the series entries gives distinct perspectives on the universe and its characters, and it’s worthwhile to explore the different series to get a complete understanding of the story.

• Fate/Stay Night (2006) And Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014): Fate/Stay Night was the first visual novel that launched the Fate series. The animated adaptations, dating from the years 2006 and 2014, follow the protagonist, Shirou Emiya, as he is involved in a fight to find his Holy Grail, a powerful artifact that grants wishes. The story is told through three routes, each with a distinct storyline and conclusion. The adaptation of 2006 follows the first route, whereas the adaptation of 2014 follows the third route.
• Fate/Zero: Fate/Zero is an unrelated prequel in the series’ events to Fate/Stay Night and takes place ten years before the show. It follows various characters, including Kiritsugu Emiya (the father of the principal Shirou), the main character of Fate/Stay Night. Shirou) in their quest to fight for an opportunity to win the Holy Grail. The series explores the themes of morality and philosophical thought and offers valuable background and context for Fate/Stay Night events.
• Fate/Apocrypha: Fate/Apocrypha is set in a different timeline than the main Fate series, in which it is revealed that the Holy Grail War has been modified. In place of the two groups comprising seven servants, two teams comprised seven servants, with their respective factions battling to take the Holy Grail. The show features various characters and examines themes such as loyalty and betrayal.
• Fate/Grand Order: The Fate/Grand Order is a game for mobile devices set in an entirely different timeline than its predecessor, the Fate series. It is a story with characters from different periods and mythologies. The protagonist, Ritsuka Fujimaru, becomes engaged in a mission to save the world by traveling through various past eras. The game includes several anime adaptations, like Fate/Grand Order: First Order and Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia.
• Kaleid Liner/Fate Prisma Illya: The Fate or Kaleid Liner Prisma Illya is a spinoff show in an alternate universe of the original Fate series. It follows Illyasviel von Einzbern, one of the characters in Fate/Stay Night, as she transforms into a magical girl and battles with other magical girls to get class cards. The show is known for its fun and lighthearted style of fan service. However, it also has some dark themes and moments.
• Lord El-Melloi II Case Files: Lord El-Melloi II Case Files is a spinoff from Fate/Zero and is set after the events in that series. This series follows Waver Velvet, a supporting character from Fate/Zero who becomes an instructor in the Mage’s Association and solves mysteries related to the magecraft genre.

FAQ’s

What is the correct order to watch the Fate Series?

There are different ways to watch the Fate Series, but the most common recommended order is Fate/Zero, Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works, and Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel.

Should I watch Fate/Stay Night before Fate/Zero?

While Fate/Stay Night is chronologically the first series, it is recommended to watch Fate/Zero first because it serves as a prequel and provides important context and character development.

What is the difference between Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works and Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel?

Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works follows one of the routes in the visual novel, while Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel follows a different route with a darker tone and different character development.

Do I need to watch Fate/Grand Order to understand the Fate Series?

No, Fate/Grand Order is a spin-off and not necessary to understand the main Fate Series.

What about Fate/Apocrypha and Fate/Kaleid Liner Prisma Illya?

Fate/Apocrypha is set in an alternate universe and can be watched independently, while Fate/Kaleid Liner Prisma Illya is a magical girl spin-off that can be watched after the main Fate Series.

Is it necessary to watch all the Fate Series?

No, it is not necessary to watch all the Fate Series as they are mostly independent of each other. However, watching the main series (Fate/Zero, Fate/Stay Night, and Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel) should provide a complete understanding of the Fate universe.