How to Watch the Fate Anime Series in Order

The *Fate* series is a wildly popular anime franchise, known for its intricate storylines and vast universe. While the sheer number of spin-offs—anime, manga, games, and light novels—can seem daunting, understanding the series' origins simplifies navigating its many entries. With over 20 anime projects, *Fate* is a rich tapestry worth exploring.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this guide provides a clear path through the *Fate* anime. For even more anime options, check out 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*?

What Is *Fate*?

The *Fate* universe began with the 2004 visual novel, *Fate/stay night*, created by Type-Moon's Kinoko Nasu (story) and Takashi Takeuchi (art). This collaboration continues across most Type-Moon visual novels, though the studio has significantly expanded since then.

Initially available only in Japanese, *Fate/stay night*’s anime adaptations served as the primary way for international audiences to experience the story. However, a remastered version with an official English translation launched in late 2024 on Steam and Nintendo Switch.

*Fate/stay night* features three distinct routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven's Feel. Each offers unique battles, character interactions, and storylines, all stemming from Shirou Emiya's involvement in the Holy Grail War. This branching narrative explains the existence of three separate anime series, each named after its corresponding route.

The *Fate* franchise has since exploded into numerous spin-offs and sub-series. While the diverse titles can be confusing, a logical watch order exists to provide a cohesive introduction to the series' themes and concepts.

Which *Fate* Anime Should You Watch First?

While opinions vary, *Fate/stay night* (2006) offers the clearest introduction. Though not a perfect adaptation, it follows the "Fate" route, including crucial moments of Saber's character arc. While it will spoil elements from *Unlimited Blade Works* and *Heaven's Feel*, some spoilers are unavoidable regardless of viewing order. Starting with *Fate/stay night* (2006) provides the most natural entry point.

How to Watch the *Fate* Anime

Most *Fate* anime are available on Crunchyroll (free trial available). Physical releases (Blu-ray/DVD) are also available for many series and films.

Fate/stay night: Complete Collection (Blu-ray)

Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (Complete Box Set)

Fate/Zero (Complete Box Set)

Fate/Grand Order - Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia (Box Set I)

Fate/kaleid liner PRISMA ILLYA Complete Collection

The Best *Fate/stay night* Series Watch Order

While the *Fate* series isn't strictly chronological, an ideal viewing order enhances understanding. This order provides the most comprehensive and satisfying experience:

1. Fate/stay night (2006): Introduces the core concepts and characters.
2. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014-2015): Focuses on Rin Tohsaka and explores a different perspective of the Holy Grail War. (Watch the series, not the movie.)
3. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] I. presage flower
4. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] II. lost butterfly
5. Fate/stay night [Heaven's Feel] III. spring song
6. Fate/Zero: A prequel exploring the 4th Holy Grail War. (Note: Watching this *after* the main *stay night* series is recommended to avoid 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 stories. However, the *Fate/Grand Order* series requires a specific viewing order.

*Fate* Spin-off Watch Order (Flexible 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

Understanding the *Fate/Grand Order* mobile game's context is helpful for appreciating the anime adaptations. The anime covers Part 1 of the game's story, focusing on the Chaldea Security Organization's mission to prevent humanity's extinction by neutralizing "Singularity" events.

1. Fate/Grand Order: First Order: The prologue.
2. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Wandering; Agateram
3. Fate/Grand Order: Camelot - Paladin; Agateram
4. Fate/Grand Order Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia
5. Fate/Grand Order Final Singularity - Grand Temple of Time: Solomon

What's Next for the *Fate* Anime?

The *Fate* franchise continues to expand. *Fate/strange Fake* premiered its first episode in late 2024, with the rest of season one expected in 2025. Other projects, including a *Fate/kaleid liner Prisma Illya* sequel and a *Witch on the Holy Night* movie adaptation, are also in development.