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The Fate series is a popular franchise that has captivated audiences with its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and stunning animation. However, with multiple adaptations, spin-offs, and timelines, new viewers often find themselves confused about how to watch the series. This article will clarify the differences between the canon order and the release order of the Fate series, helping you navigate through the various titles.
Understanding Canon Order vs. Release Order
The canon order refers to the chronological sequence of events within the Fate universe, while the release order is the order in which the series was originally aired or released. Understanding these two orders is crucial for new viewers to fully appreciate the story and character development.
Fate Series Canon Order
The canon order follows the timeline of events as they occur within the Fate universe. Here’s the recommended viewing order based on the canon timeline:
- Fate/Zero
- Fate/stay night (Unlimited Blade Works)
- Fate/stay night (Heaven’s Feel)
- Fate/Grand Order
Fate/Zero
Fate/Zero serves as a prequel to the original Fate/stay night series. It explores the Fourth Holy Grail War, featuring key characters and events that set the stage for the later series. The dark themes and complex narrative make it a must-watch for understanding the motivations of characters in the subsequent adaptations.
Fate/stay night (Unlimited Blade Works)
Following Fate/Zero, Fate/stay night (Unlimited Blade Works) is an adaptation of the visual novel’s second route. It focuses on the relationship between Shirou Emiya and Saber, along with the conflict of the Fifth Holy Grail War. This adaptation is known for its high-quality animation and action sequences.
Fate/stay night (Heaven’s Feel)
Heaven’s Feel is the third route of the Fate/stay night visual novel and is presented as a trilogy of films. This adaptation delves deeper into the darker aspects of the story and character arcs, providing a different perspective on the events of the Holy Grail War.
Fate Series Release Order
The release order of the Fate series is based on when each title was aired or released. This order can be quite different from the canon order, which may lead to confusion if watched without prior knowledge. Here’s the release order of the main Fate titles:
- Fate/stay night (2006)
- Fate/Zero (2011-2012)
- Fate/stay night (Unlimited Blade Works) (2014-2015)
- Fate/stay night (Heaven’s Feel) (2017-2020)
- Fate/Grand Order
Fate/stay night (2006)
The original Fate/stay night series aired in 2006 and is based on the visual novel’s first route. While it introduced many viewers to the Fate franchise, it is often criticized for its pacing and animation quality compared to later adaptations.
Which Order Should You Choose?
Choosing between the canon order and the release order ultimately depends on your preference as a viewer. If you want to experience the story in the order events occur, the canon order is the way to go. However, if you’re interested in the historical context of the series and how it evolved over time, watching in release order may be more appealing.
Additional Titles in the Fate Series
In addition to the main titles, the Fate franchise includes several spin-offs and adaptations that are worth exploring. Here are a few notable mentions:
- Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya
- Fate/Apocrypha
- Fate/Extra Last Encore
- Fate/Grand Order: Absolute Demonic Front – Babylonia
Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya
This series is a magical girl spin-off that reimagines the characters from Fate/stay night in a different setting. It offers a lighter tone and is a fun watch for fans looking for something different within the Fate universe.
Fate/Apocrypha
Fate/Apocrypha presents an alternate timeline where the events of the Holy Grail War unfold differently. It features a new cast of characters and offers a fresh perspective on the Fate lore.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to watch the Fate series in canon order or release order, the franchise offers a rich and engaging experience. Each adaptation brings its unique flavor to the overarching narrative, making it a rewarding journey for both new and returning fans. Dive into the Fate series and discover the world of heroes, legends, and epic battles!