Original Creator : Kinoko Nasu When : 2004 Where : Japan
Read/Watch This if you are Into: Anime and Fantasy and Action
Cultural Significance : The Fate series is significant for its rich blend of historical, mythological, and fantasy elements, bringing legendary figures into modern conflicts over the powerful Holy Grail. It popularized the "battle royale" format in anime, where iconic heroes from different eras clash, each with unique abilities and backstories, appealing to a broad audience. The series' complex narrative structure, including multiple timelines and alternate realities, has influenced storytelling in anime and other media. It also explores themes of heroism, morality, and the nature of power, sparking deep philosophical discussions among fans. The Fate series has become a cornerstone of modern anime culture, spawning numerous adaptations, spin-offs, and a dedicated global fanbase.
Personal Rating : 8/10. The series watch order is incredibly confusing with so many contradictions in anime forums. Here is our recommended watch order:
Recommended Watch Order (Main Series Only) This order focuses on the primary story arcs without side shows or movies:
Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015) - TV Series
It's a good starting point because it introduces the main characters and the Holy Grail War.
Fate/Zero (2011-2012) - TV Series
This is a prequel to "Fate/Stay Night" and provides background on the events leading up to the Fifth Holy Grail War. Watching it after "Unlimited Blade Works" can help you appreciate the connections better.
Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel (2017-2020) - Movie Trilogy
This trilogy covers the "Heaven’s Feel" route, which is darker and more complex than the others. It’s best watched after understanding the characters from the other routes.
Chronological Watch Order (Including Side Shows/Movies) If you want to watch everything in chronological order within the story's timeline:
Fate/Zero (2011-2012) - TV Series
Start with this as it sets the stage for the entire Fate universe.
Fate/Stay Night: Heaven’s Feel (2017-2020) - Movie Trilogy
While it’s chronologically next, it’s advised to watch it after UBW to fully appreciate the story.
Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015) - TV Series
Covers the events of the Fifth Holy Grail War, from a different perspective than Heaven's Feel.
Fate/Stay Night (2006) - TV Series (Optional)
This series adapts the "Fate" route but is less visually appealing and is often considered non-essential if you've seen the other adaptations.
Fate/Grand Order: First Order (2016) - TV Movie
This is an introduction to the Fate/Grand Order mobile game storyline.
Fate/Apocrypha (2017) - TV Series
Set in an alternate timeline where the Third Holy Grail War had a different outcome.
Fate/Extra Last Encore (2018) - TV Series
Set in a parallel universe based on the "Fate/Extra" game, it's not directly connected to the main timeline.
Fate/Grand Order: Babylonia (2019-2020) - TV Series
A more recent adaptation from the "Fate/Grand Order" mobile game storyline.
Fate/Grand Order: Camelot & Solomon (2020-2022) - Movies
These movies adapt further chapters of the "Fate/Grand Order" game
** "Fate/Stay Night" (2006): Older adaptation covers the "Fate" route. It's not essential but provides another angle on the story. The animation style is whatever, but it feels “OG.”
"Fate/Grand Order" series: A side series with a focus on fans of the mobile game, so it can be skipped if you're only interested in the main storylines. Some cool characters in this series.
"Fate/Apocrypha" and "Fate/Extra Last Encore": Alternate universes and can be considered non-essential but are enjoyable if you want more of the Fate universe.
