Fate Series: Where to Start and What to Know

Welcome to the Grail War: Your Starter Guide to the Fate Series!

Hey there, fellow anime aficionado! Have you ever found yourself wandering in the colossal universe of the Fate series, wondering where to plant your flag and start your binge-watching journey? Fear not! Whether you’re puzzled by the plethora of plotlines or dazzled by the diverse characters, I’ve got the perfect spell to summon clarity into the chaotic cosmos of Fate. Prepare yourself for a wild ride through ancient heroes, epic battles, and magical showdowns that make up this anime phenomenon!

The Fate Foundation: What on Earth is the Fate Series?

Before we dive headfirst into the chronological chasm, let’s chew on what Fate is all about. Picture this: a high-stakes battle royale, where magicians (known as Masters) summon legendary souls (called Servants) such as King Arthur, Hercules, and Medusa in a fight to the finish for the ultimate prize – the Holy Grail! Each show or movie in the series features a mix of history, magic, and mind-blowing twists that can turn any anime newbie into a lore-loving fanatic.

Fate started off as a humble visual novel named Fate/stay night, created by Type-Moon, and oh boy, did it spawn a multiverse of adaptations, including TV series, movies, and games. So grab your cosplay gear and ready your snacks; it’s time to choose your entry point in this whirlwind of wizardry and warfare!

The Viewing Strategies: Chronological Order vs Story Release

When you’re venturing into a realm where even the simplest coffee order sounds like a mystical incantation, figuring out where to start watching can be as challenging as the quests undertaken by the characters. Here’s a neat trick – you’ve got two main paths to tread: the Chronological Order for a time-wise narrative, and the Story Release order, for the thrill of discovery as the original audiences felt it.

Chronological Crusade: A Timeline Tactic

Dive deep into history with the chronological order. This approach ensures you witness the events exactly as they happened in the universe. Here’s the breakdown:

Fate/Zero: Starting here is like reading the prequel before the main saga—it sets up the epic tale of the Fourth Holy Grail War, seeding plenty of “Oh, so that’s why” moments later on.
Fate/stay night: This series follows the Fifth Holy Grail War, unraveling the mysteries set up in Fate/Zero. It’s like hopping in a time machine and seeing the consequences of the past wars play out.
Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works: This isn’t just a retelling of the Fate/stay night but a whole new whirlpool of strategies and battles that explores alternate routes and fates of the characters. The ideal next step!
Fate/stay night: Heaven’s Feel: A feature film trilogy that dives into the darkest depths of the Fate universe. Prep for this emotional rollercoaster only after you’ve braced yourself with earlier stories!

Story Release Order: As the Creators Intended

For those who love to immerse in tales as they were told originally, the story release order unwraps the Fate series as it was unveiled to the world. This pathway is like following the artist’s brush strokes as they complete each part of a grand painting:

Fate/stay night: The OG series where modern viewers began their journey. Though slightly aged in visuals, the storyline grips you by the collar and drags you deep into the heart of the Fate universe.
Fate/Zero: Jumping back in time after experiencing Fate/stay night paints a poignant picture of the backstory and the weight of destiny each character carries into the fray.
Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works: Scale new heights of animation and complexity in storytelling with Ufotable’s breathtaking take on the series. This standout series captures the essence of what makes Fate so beloved.

Navigating the Spin-offs: A Smorgasbord of Stories

In the sprawling spiderweb of Fate content, the spin-offs include gems that no fan should miss. Here’s your quick guide on what’s worth watching and why:

Fate/Apocrypha: A parallel world scenario bursting with new characters and moral quandaries. This series explores a what-if scenario of a different Holy Grail War, brimming with betrayals, alliances, and epic showdowns.

Fate/Grand Order – Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia: Fasten your seatbelts for this thrilling ride that takes you back to ancient Mesopotamia! Aside from showcasing dazzling fights and divine interventions, this series is a fan-favorite for its deep dive into mythology and character development.
Fate/Extra Last Encore: For those with a penchant for the peculiar, this series takes a unique twist on the Fate narrative. Set in a cybernetic environment, expect a blend of digital dungeons and new, intriguing takes on familiar heroes.

Each of these spin-offs offers a different flavor of the Fate universe, so pick according to your tastes or be bold and try them all!

Embracing the Fate Fandom: Cosplay and Community Insights

Joining the Fate community means more than just catching up on episodes. It’s about diving into a rich culture of creativity, especially in cosplay! Here are a few tips to get you started:

Choose Your Hero Wisely: Whether you’re drawn to the stoic Saber or the fiery Rin, pick a character that resonates with you. Remember, cosplay is not just about costumes; it’s about embodying the spirit of your chosen hero!
Craftsmanship Counts: The Fate series is known for its detailed and distinctive outfits. Challenge yourself to match this quality in your cosplay endeavors. Local fabric stores and online tutorials will be your best allies.
Join the Community: From conventions to online forums, the Fate fanbase is welcoming and wide-ranging. Share your cosplay progress, discuss your favorite scenes, or simply make friends who share your passion for anime.

Conclusion: Your Fate Awaits!

Congratulations, you’ve just had a crash course in all things Fate! With this guide, you’re more than ready to dive into the intense battles and dramatic tales of the Holy Grail War. Whether you decide to follow the chronological order or jump in as the stories were released, each viewing path promises a unique adventure filled with magic, mystery, and might.

So, what are you waiting for? The Grail War beckons, and its tales are ripe for exploring. Wander no more, for your Fate journey starts now—may you enjoy every twist and turn along the way. Ready your wits and costumes, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Fate series. The community awaits your stories, theories, and splendid cosplays. See you on the battlefield, future master of the Grail!

Remember, every episode, every battle, and every character in the Fate series adds layers to this intricate tapestry of narratives. So, keep exploring, keep questioning, and most importantly, keep enjoying! The Fate universe is vast, and its mysteries are endless. Journey forth, and let the magic of Fate guide you through unforgettable adventures that await at every turn!