"Fate Anime Series: Correct Viewing Order Revealed"

The Fate series is a beloved and intricate anime franchise that has captivated fans worldwide. With its origins rooted in the 2004 visual novel *Fate/stay night* developed by Type-Moon, the series has expanded into numerous anime projects, manga, games, and light novels. Navigating the vast universe of Fate can be daunting, but understanding its origins simplifies the journey. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer, our comprehensive guide to the Fate anime watch order will help you dive into this expansive world. Additionally, if you're looking for more anime to enjoy, don't miss our guide to the best anime of all time.

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 began with the visual novel Fate/stay night, crafted by Kinoko Nasu and illustrated by Takashi Takeuchi of Type-Moon. Initially available only in Japanese, the visual novel has now been remastered and officially translated into English, available on Steam and Nintendo Switch since late 2024. Fate/stay night offers three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each presenting unique storylines and character developments centered around the Holy Grail War. This war pits Masters and their summoned Servants against each other, with the ultimate prize being a wish granted by the Holy Grail.

Saber in Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works

Over time, the series has expanded into numerous spinoffs, each with its own unique setting and rules, making it easy to feel overwhelmed. However, a structured watch order can help introduce you to the series' core concepts and themes.

Which Fate Anime Should You Watch First?

Rin Tohsaka & Archer in Fate/stay night (2006)

When deciding which Fate anime to start with, the 2006 Fate/stay night series, produced by Studio Deen, is a solid choice. It primarily follows the Fate route of the visual novel and provides a foundational understanding of the series, including the dynamics between Masters and Servants, and the Holy Grail War itself. Although it has its flaws, it's the only adaptation that includes key moments in Saber's character arc, making it an essential starting point despite some spoilers for other routes.

How to Watch the Fate Anime

All Fate anime are available for streaming on Crunchyroll with a free trial. For those who prefer physical copies, many main series and spin-off movies are available on Blu-ray.

### 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

Archer in Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014)

The Fate series allows for flexible viewing, but following a specific order can enhance your understanding and enjoyment:

1. Fate/stay night (2006)

Begin with the 2006 Fate/stay night series to grasp the basics of the Holy Grail War, the roles of Masters and Servants, and Shirou Emiya's journey as he gets entangled in this mystical battle.

2. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015)

Next, watch Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works, which delves into the second route of the visual novel. This series focuses on Rin Tohsaka and her interactions with Shirou, offering a deeper exploration of their characters and the war's dynamics.

Note: Opt for the series over the movie version for a more comprehensive experience.

3. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] I. presage flower

Begin the Heaven's Feel trilogy with presage flower, which introduces Sakura Matou and sets the stage for the dramatic events of the third route.

4. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] II. lost butterfly

Continue with lost butterfly, which escalates the tension and introduces significant changes to the storyline.

5. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] III. spring song

Conclude the Heaven's Feel arc with spring song, featuring some of the most memorable battles and a satisfying resolution to the trilogy.

6. Fate/Zero

Finally, watch Fate/Zero, a prequel that explores the Fourth Holy Grail War and provides a rich backstory to the Fate universe. Be aware that it may spoil elements from the main series.

How to Watch Fate Anime Spinoffs

Gilgamesh in Fate/strange Fake: Whispers of Dawn (2023)

Once you've completed the main Fate/stay night series, you can explore the numerous spinoffs. Most of these are standalone and can be watched in any order, except for the Fate/Grand Order series, which requires a specific sequence.

Fate Spinoff Watch Order

Feel free to watch any of the following spinoffs 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

To fully appreciate Fate/Grand Order, understanding its source material—the mobile game—is helpful. The game follows the Chaldea Security Organization's mission to prevent humanity's extinction by resolving Singularity events.

The anime series covers the first eight Singularities of Part 1, each set in a different time period with unique Holy Grail Wars. 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 and introduces key characters like Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash Kyrielight.

2. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram

Next, watch the first movie of the 6th Singularity, Camelot - Wandering, which follows the journey of Bedivere in Jerusalem during 1273 A.D.

3. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram

Continue with the second movie, Camelot - Paladin, to conclude the 6th Singularity and see the resolution of Bedivere's story.

4. Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia

Then, dive into the Babylonia arc, set in ancient Uruk, where Ritsuka and Mash face off against goddesses and Demonic Beasts.

5. Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon

Finally, watch Solomon to see the culmination of the Chaldea Security Organization's efforts to save humanity.

What's Next for the Fate Anime?

The Fate series continues to grow, with new projects on the horizon. The latest addition, Fate/strange Fake, premiered its first episode during the Fate Project New Year's Eve TV Special and is now streaming on Crunchyroll, with more episodes expected in 2025. Type-Moon is also developing a sequel to Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya - Licht Nameless Girl and a movie adaptation of their 2012 visual novel Witch on the Holy Night.