How to Enjoy ‘fairy Tail’: a Comprehensive Guide to Series Order and Side Stories

‘Fairy Tail’ is a beloved anime and manga series that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. With its rich storytelling, dynamic characters, and exciting adventures, it can be a bit overwhelming to dive into. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about enjoying ‘Fairy Tail’, including the series order and the side stories that enhance the overall experience.

Understanding the Main Series

The main ‘Fairy Tail’ series follows the adventures of Natsu Dragneel, a dragon slayer, and his friends as they embark on quests and battle formidable foes. The series is divided into several arcs, each contributing to the overall narrative. Here’s the recommended viewing and reading order:

  • Fairy Tail (2009-2013) – Anime Series
  • Fairy Tail: Part 1 (Volumes 1-11)
  • Fairy Tail: Part 2 (Volumes 12-24)
  • Fairy Tail: Part 3 (Volumes 25-38)
  • Fairy Tail: Final Series (2018-2019) – Anime Series

It’s important to note that while the anime follows the manga closely, there are some filler episodes that do not appear in the manga. However, these episodes can still be enjoyable for fans who want to explore more of the ‘Fairy Tail’ world.

Filler Episodes and Arcs

Filler episodes are a common occurrence in long-running anime series. In ‘Fairy Tail’, these episodes often provide comic relief or additional character development. Here’s a list of the filler arcs:

  • Tenrou Island Arc (Episodes 1-25)
  • Filler Episodes (Episodes 26-49)
  • Grand Magic Games Arc (Episodes 50-70)
  • Filler Episodes (Episodes 71-75)

While these episodes are not essential to the main storyline, they can add depth to the characters and provide entertaining side stories.

Side Stories and Spin-offs

‘Fairy Tail’ also features several side stories and spin-offs that expand the universe and provide additional context to the main series. Here are some notable side stories:

  • Fairy Tail: Zero – A prequel that explores the origins of the Fairy Tail guild.
  • Fairy Tail: Blue Mistral – A spin-off focusing on Wendy Marvell and her adventures.
  • Fairy Tail: Happy’s Adventure – A light-hearted series centered around Happy, the flying cat.

These side stories are often recommended for fans who want to delve deeper into the lore and character backgrounds of ‘Fairy Tail’.

Reading the Manga

For those who prefer reading, the ‘Fairy Tail’ manga is a fantastic way to experience the story. The manga is authored by Hiro Mashima and consists of 63 volumes. Here’s a suggested approach to reading:

  • Start with Fairy Tail: Volume 1 to get introduced to the characters and the world.
  • Read through the volumes in order to follow the character development and plot progression.
  • Consider reading the side stories after completing the main series for a comprehensive understanding.

The manga offers a more detailed narrative and character insights compared to the anime, making it a worthwhile experience for fans.

Engaging with the Community

One of the best ways to enjoy ‘Fairy Tail’ is by engaging with the community. There are various platforms where fans discuss their favorite arcs, characters, and theories:

  • Online forums and Reddit communities dedicated to ‘Fairy Tail’.
  • Social media groups where fans share fan art and cosplay.
  • Conventions where fans can meet and participate in ‘Fairy Tail’ themed events.

Interacting with other fans can enhance your enjoyment of the series and provide new perspectives on the story.

Conclusion

‘Fairy Tail’ is a captivating series that offers a wealth of content for fans to explore. Whether you choose to watch the anime, read the manga, or dive into the side stories, there is something for everyone. By following this guide, you can fully immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ‘Fairy Tail’ and enjoy every moment of the journey.