The Fate anime series, based on the visual novel "Fate/stay night" by Type-Moon, has expanded into a vast and intricate franchise with numerous adaptations, spin-offs, and sequels. Understanding the correct viewing order can be daunting for new fans, given the complexity and the non-linear release of the series. The franchise explores the concept of the Holy Grail War, where historical and mythological figures, known as Servants, are summoned by their Masters to fight for the ultimate prize: the Holy Grail, which can grant any wish.
Introduction to the Fate Series
The core of the Fate series revolves around the idea of the Holy Grail War, a secret battle that occurs every sixty years, involving seven Masters and their Servants. The series explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the consequences of one’s desires. With its deep characters, engaging storylines, and detailed world-building, the Fate series has garnered a significant following worldwide.
Main Series and Adaptations
The main series includes “Fate/stay night,” which was initially adapted into an anime in 2006, focusing on the storyline of Shirou Emiya, a high school student who becomes a Master in the Fifth Holy Grail War. However, this adaptation received criticism for its deviation from the original storyline and its attempt to combine elements from multiple routes of the visual novel. Later adaptations, such as “Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works” (2014) and “Fate/stay night: Heaven’s Feel” (2017), provided more faithful representations of the original story, each focusing on a different route of the visual novel.
Another significant part of the franchise is "Fate/Zero," a prequel to the events of "Fate/stay night," which explores the Fourth Holy Grail War. It was adapted into an anime series in 2011 and is highly regarded for its storytelling and character development. "Fate/Zero" offers a darker and more mature perspective on the Holy Grail War, setting the stage for the events of "Fate/stay night."
Spin-Offs and Sequels
Beyond the main storyline, the Fate franchise includes several spin-offs and sequels that expand the universe. “Fate/Apocrypha” (2017) is set in an alternate timeline and introduces a new Holy Grail War scenario. “Fate/Grand Order” (2019), based on the popular mobile game of the same name, presents a unique storyline where the protagonist, a Master, must travel through time to prevent the extinction of humanity.
"Fate/Extra" and its sequel "Fate/Extella" offer a different take on the Holy Grail War, set in a virtual reality world. These series provide fresh perspectives on the Fate universe, introducing new characters and storylines while maintaining the core elements that make the franchise appealing.
| Series Title | Release Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fate/stay night | 2006 | Initial adaptation of the visual novel, focusing on Shirou Emiya's storyline. |
| Fate/Zero | 2011 | Prequel series set in the Fourth Holy Grail War. |
| Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works | 2014 | Adaptation focusing on the Unlimited Blade Works route of the visual novel. |
| Fate/stay night: Heaven's Feel | 2017 | Adaptation focusing on the Heaven's Feel route of the visual novel. |
| Fate/Apocrypha | 2017 | Alternate timeline series introducing a new Holy Grail War scenario. |
| Fate/Grand Order | 2019 | Based on the mobile game, featuring a time-traveling storyline to prevent humanity's extinction. |
Recommended Viewing Order
To fully appreciate the complexity and depth of the Fate series, a recommended viewing order is as follows:
- Fate/Zero (2011) - Provides a solid foundation and background for the Holy Grail War.
- Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014) - Offers a character-driven storyline focusing on Shirou Emiya.
- Fate/stay night: Heaven’s Feel (2017) - Completes the trilogy of adaptations based on the “Fate/stay night” visual novel, focusing on the Heaven’s Feel route.
- Fate/Apocrypha (2017) - For those interested in an alternate take on the Holy Grail War.
- Fate/Grand Order (2019) - A unique storyline that expands the Fate universe, ideal for fans looking for something different.
What is the best starting point for the Fate series?
+Fate/Zero is often recommended as the starting point due to its comprehensive introduction to the Holy Grail War and its characters, which are central to the series.
How does the Fate series handle its complex storyline and multiple adaptations?
+The series manages its complexity through detailed world-building and character development. Each adaptation and spin-off contributes to the overall universe, offering unique perspectives and storylines that enrich the franchise as a whole.
Are the Fate series adaptations faithful to the original visual novels?
+Later adaptations, such as "Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works" and "Fate/stay night: Heaven's Feel," are more faithful to the original storylines of the visual novel routes they are based on. However, some creative liberties are taken to enhance the storytelling and characters for the anime medium.
In conclusion, the Fate series offers a rich and complex universe that explores deep themes and intricate storylines. With its various adaptations and spin-offs, the franchise provides something for every fan of anime and fantasy. By understanding the recommended viewing order and the background of each series, new and veteran fans alike can fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the Fate universe.
