The *Fate* series, a beloved anime franchise, is renowned for its complexity. With numerous spin-offs across anime, manga, games, and light novels, navigating its vast landscape can seem daunting. However, understanding the series' origins simplifies the viewing experience. Boasting over 20 anime projects, *Fate* is a rich and rewarding journey.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this guide provides a clear *Fate* anime watch order. For even more anime options, explore 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 Spin-offs
What Is *Fate*?
The *Fate* anime universe originated with the 2004 visual novel, *Fate/stay night*, created by Type-Moon's Kinoko Nasu (story) and Takashi Takeuchi (art). This dynamic duo continues to shape most Type-Moon visual novels.
Initially only available in Japanese, the anime series provided the primary access point for international audiences. However, late 2024 brought the exciting news of *Fate/stay night REMASTERED*, offering an official English translation on Steam and Nintendo Switch.
*Fate/stay night* features three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel, each boasting unique battles, character interactions, and storylines. While beginning similarly with Shirou Emiya's involvement in the Holy Grail War, the routes diverge significantly, leading to three separate anime adaptations.
The *Fate* franchise has expanded enormously, resulting in numerous spin-offs. This guide provides a logical viewing order to navigate this expansive world.
Which *Fate* Anime Should You Watch First?
While opinions vary, the 2006 *Fate/stay night* anime offers the clearest introduction. Based on the "Fate" route of the visual novel, it provides a foundational understanding of Masters, Servants, and the *Fate* universe, despite not being a perfect adaptation. It's crucial for Saber's character arc.
While subsequent viewings may reveal spoilers, this approach provides a strong starting point. We recommend beginning with *Fate/stay night* as the intended entry point.
How to Watch the *Fate* Anime
All *Fate* anime are available via Crunchyroll (free trial). Physical releases (Blu-ray/DVD) are also available for many series and films.
The Best *Fate/stay night* Series Watch Order
While flexible, an optimal viewing order enhances understanding. This order is not strictly chronological.
1. *Fate/stay night* (2006)
Introduces the core concepts and characters, following Shirou Emiya's involvement in the Holy Grail War.
2. *Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works* (2014-2015)
Focuses on Rin Tohsaka, exploring the second route of the visual novel. Watch the series, not the movie.
3. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* I. presage flower
Begins the Heaven's Feel movie trilogy, centering on Sakura Matou.
4. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* II. lost butterfly
Continues the Heaven's Feel storyline.
5. *Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel]* III. spring song
Concludes the Heaven's Feel trilogy.
6. *Fate/Zero*
A prequel focusing on Kiritsugu Emiya in the 4th Holy Grail War. While a prequel, watching after the main series avoids spoilers.
How to Watch *Fate* Anime Spin-offs
After completing the core *Fate/stay night* adaptations, numerous spin-offs are available. Most can be watched in any order, as they are largely self-contained. Exceptions include the *Fate/Grand Order* series.
*Fate* Spin-off Watch Order (Flexible)
*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
Understanding the *Fate/Grand Order* mobile game context is beneficial. The anime series adapts parts of the game's ongoing storyline about the Chaldea Security Organization's mission to prevent humanity's extinction.
Part 1 features eight Singularities (essentially separate Holy Grail Wars). The anime covers only a portion of this. Each Singularity is self-contained yet contributes to overarching themes. Anime adaptations exist for the Prologue and Singularities 6-8. The first five require playing the game.
1. *Fate/Grand Order: First Order*
The prologue, introducing Ritsuka Fujimaru and Mash Kyrielight.
2. *Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram*
The first of two films covering the 6th Singularity.
3. *Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram*
Concludes the 6th Singularity.
4. *Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia*
A popular arc set in Uruk.
5. *Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon*
The conclusion of the Observer on Timeless Temple storyline.
What's Next for the *Fate* Anime?
The *Fate* franchise continues to expand, with new anime and manga adaptations. *Fate/strange Fake* premiered its first episode, with the rest of season one expected in 2025. Type-Moon also announced projects including a *Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya* sequel and a movie adaptation of *Witch on the Holy Night*.
