Fullmetal Alchemist is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed anime series, known for its compelling story, complex characters, and deep philosophical themes. With multiple adaptations, including the original 2003 anime, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood in 2009, and several movies, new viewers often wonder about the proper Fullmetal Alchemist watch order. Understanding the recommended viewing sequence is important to fully appreciate the story, character development, and intricate plot twists. Choosing the right watch order can enhance the experience, avoid confusion, and provide the most coherent understanding of the alchemical world created by Hiromu Arakawa.
Overview of the Fullmetal Alchemist Series
The Fullmetal Alchemist franchise follows the journey of Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who use alchemy to attempt to resurrect their deceased mother. This attempt goes horribly wrong, costing Edward an arm and a leg and trapping Alphonse’s soul in a suit of armor. The story revolves around their quest to restore their bodies using the Philosopher’s Stone, exploring themes of sacrifice, morality, and the consequences of seeking power. While both the 2003 series and Brotherhood adapt the manga’s storyline, they differ in how closely they follow the original material, leading to different watch order recommendations depending on the viewer’s goals.
2003 Fullmetal Alchemist Anime
The original 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist anime starts faithful to the manga but diverges significantly after a certain point due to the manga still being serialized at the time. This divergence leads to a unique storyline and conclusion that differs from the source material. Fans who watch this series will experience a compelling narrative, but it includes filler episodes and plotlines not present in the manga. Watching the 2003 anime first can be rewarding for those interested in exploring different interpretations of the Elric brothers’ journey, as it presents a distinct narrative universe within the Fullmetal Alchemist franchise.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, released in 2009, is a more faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga. It follows the original plot more closely and includes events from the manga that were not depicted in the 2003 series. Brotherhood provides a more comprehensive story with fewer filler episodes and a conclusion that aligns with the author’s intended vision. Many fans recommend watching Brotherhood for the most authentic experience and for viewers seeking to follow the canonical storyline. The watch order for Brotherhood can be sequential, as it covers the entire story from beginning to end without needing prior knowledge of the 2003 series.
Recommended Watch Order
For viewers new to Fullmetal Alchemist, the watch order depends on whether they want to experience both adaptations or focus solely on the canonical manga storyline. Here are the main approaches
Option 1 2003 Anime First, Then Brotherhood
- Start with Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) – watch all 51 episodes.
- Watch the movie Conqueror of Shamballa (2005), which serves as a conclusion to the 2003 anime.
- Proceed to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (2009) – watch all 64 episodes for the canonical storyline.
This approach allows viewers to experience the 2003 series’ unique narrative and then understand the manga-accurate Brotherhood adaptation. It highlights differences in storylines and character arcs while providing a complete understanding of the franchise.
Option 2 Brotherhood First
- Start directly with Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood for the canonical experience.
- Optionally watch the 2003 series afterward to explore an alternate storyline and different creative interpretation.
- Include the 2003 movie Conqueror of Shamballa after completing the 2003 anime if exploring this timeline.
This option is ideal for newcomers who prefer a coherent, manga-faithful story from the beginning. It avoids the potential confusion caused by the 2003 series’ deviations and focuses on the complete narrative as intended by Hiromu Arakawa.
Movies and OVAs
In addition to the main anime series, Fullmetal Alchemist includes several movies and OVAs that can enhance the viewing experience. These include
- Fullmetal Alchemist Conqueror of Shamballa (2005)– Serves as the conclusion to the 2003 series.
- Fullmetal Alchemist The Sacred Star of Milos (2011)– Set within the Brotherhood continuity, providing an additional adventure for Edward and Alphonse.
- OVAs and Special Episodes– Include The Blind Alchemist, Stray Rondo, and The Abducted Alchemist, which provide side stories, character backstory, and additional context for both series.
Including these movies and OVAs in the Fullmetal Alchemist watch order enriches the experience and provides a deeper connection to the characters and world-building.
Viewing Tips
When watching Fullmetal Alchemist in order, consider the following tips
- Pay attention to character development and recurring themes to understand the differences between adaptations.
- Take note of philosophical and moral questions raised in both series, as these are central to the story.
- Consider watching dubbed or subtitled versions according to personal preference, as translation choices may affect tone and interpretation.
- Schedule breaks between series if watching both 2003 and Brotherhood to avoid confusion with differing storylines.
- Use the movies to bridge or supplement the anime series, especially if following the 2003 series first.
Why Watch Order Matters
Watching Fullmetal Alchemist in a recommended order helps viewers fully appreciate character arcs, plot development, and narrative twists. The 2003 series and Brotherhood each offer different perspectives, and understanding the proper sequence prevents confusion and ensures that viewers can recognize foreshadowing, recurring motifs, and thematic continuity. Proper watch order also enhances the emotional impact of key events, allowing audiences to connect more deeply with Edward, Alphonse, and the supporting characters as they navigate moral dilemmas, battles, and personal growth.
Determining the Fullmetal Alchemist watch order is essential for anyone seeking to experience this beloved franchise fully. Whether starting with the 2003 anime for a unique narrative and then moving to Brotherhood for the canonical story, or beginning with Brotherhood for a faithful manga adaptation, viewers have multiple ways to enjoy the Elric brothers’ journey. Including movies and OVAs adds depth, while observing the recommended sequence ensures clarity and emotional engagement. By following a thoughtful watch order, fans can appreciate the storytelling, character development, and intricate themes that have made Fullmetal Alchemist a timeless and highly influential anime series.