"Guide to Watching Fate Anime Series in Order"

The Fate series stands out as one of the most cherished and complex anime franchises, captivating fans with its intricate storytelling and expansive universe. Originating from a visual novel titled *Fate/stay night*, released in 2004 by Type-Moon, the series has grown to encompass over 20 different anime projects, including spinoffs in various media such as manga, games, and light novels. Understanding the roots of the series simplifies navigating the watch order of the different seasons and projects. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer, this guide will help you dive into the Fate anime universe effectively.

For those looking to explore beyond Fate, consider checking out our guide to the best anime of all time for more viewing options.

What Is Fate?

The Fate series originated from the visual novel *Fate/stay night*, created by Kinoko Nasu and Takashi Takeuchi under their studio Type-Moon. Initially available only in Japanese, the series gained international popularity through its anime adaptations. In late 2024, *Fate/stay night REMASTERED* was released with an official English translation, playable on Steam and Nintendo Switch, bringing the original story to a broader audience.

The visual novel *Fate/stay night* features three distinct routes—Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel—each offering unique battles, character interactions, and plot developments. These routes have been adapted into separate anime series, each named after its corresponding route, making it straightforward to identify which story arc you're following.

Over time, the Fate series has expanded into numerous spinoffs and subseries, each with unique settings and narratives. While it may seem daunting, there's a logical watch order that introduces you to the core concepts and themes of the series.

Which Fate Anime Should You Watch First?

For newcomers, the best starting point is the 2006 anime *Fate/stay night*, produced by Studio Deen. This series primarily follows the Fate route of the visual novel, offering a foundational understanding of the Holy Grail War, Masters, Servants, and the series' central themes. While not a perfect adaptation, it is essential for understanding Saber's character arc, which is critical to the series.

Starting with this series may spoil some elements of the subsequent routes, but given the interconnected nature of the series, some spoilers are unavoidable. We recommend beginning here to appreciate the series from its inception.

How to Watch the Fate Anime

All Fate anime series are available for streaming on Crunchyroll, with options for a free trial. Physical collectors can find the main series and spinoff movies on platforms like Amazon and Crunchyroll.

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The Best Fate/stay night Series Watch Order

The Fate series offers flexibility in watch order, but for the best narrative experience, follow this sequence:

1. Fate/stay night (2006)

Begin with *Fate/stay night*, which introduces you to the world of Masters and Servants through the eyes of Shirou Emiya, who is thrust into the Holy Grail War.

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

Next, watch *Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works*, which follows the second route of the visual novel and focuses on Rin Tohsaka. The series is divided into two seasons, totaling 25 episodes, and is preferable over the movie version for a more comprehensive experience.

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

Continue with the first movie of the Heaven's Feel trilogy, *presage flower*, which delves into the third route of the visual novel, centering on Sakura Matou.

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

The second movie, *lost butterfly*, expands on the Heaven's Feel storyline, introducing significant changes to the narrative.

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

Conclude the Heaven's Feel trilogy with *spring song*, which offers some of the most visually stunning battles and a satisfying resolution to the storyline.

6. Fate/Zero

Finally, watch *Fate/Zero*, a prequel that explores the events of the 4th Holy Grail War. Although it can be watched earlier, it's recommended after the main series to avoid spoilers.

How to Watch Fate Anime Spinoffs

After completing the main Fate/stay night series, you can explore the numerous spinoffs. Most can be watched in any order as they are standalone stories with unique settings and rules. However, the *Fate/Grand Order* series requires a specific watch order.

Fate Spinoff Watch Order

These spinoffs can be watched 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

*Fate/Grand Order* is a mobile game that follows the Chaldea Security Organization's mission to prevent humanity's extinction. The anime adaptations cover the first part of the game's story, focusing on eight Singularities. Here's the recommended watch order for the *Fate/Grand Order* anime:

1. Fate/Grand Order: First Order

Start with the prologue, *First Order*, which sets the stage for the series by introducing Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash Kyrielight's mission in Fuyuki City.

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

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

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

Continue with the second movie, *Camelot - Paladin; Agateram*, which concludes the 6th Singularity.

4. Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia

Follow with the fan-favorite arc, *Babylonia*, set in ancient Uruk, where Ritsuka and Mash confront new challenges and familiar characters.

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

Conclude with the final movie, *Solomon*, which wraps up the first part of the *Fate/Grand Order* storyline.

What's Next for the Fate Anime?

The Fate series continues to expand with new projects. The latest addition is *Fate/strange Fake*, which premiered its first episode on December 31, 2024, during the Fate Project New Year's Eve TV Special. The rest of the first season is 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*.