Watching Fullmetal Alchemist can be a thrilling and immersive experience, but many viewers often wonder about the best order to watch the series. Fullmetal Alchemist is a popular anime franchise based on Hiromu Arakawa’s manga, and it has two main adaptations the original 2003 series and the 2009 remake, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood. Each version tells a similar story but with important differences in plot, character development, and ending. Knowing the recommended viewing order can help new fans and returning viewers enjoy the series in a way that maximizes understanding and emotional impact. This guide will explore the best ways to watch Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, as well as related movies and OVAs.
Understanding the Two Series
The first step in deciding the order to watch Fullmetal Alchemist is understanding the differences between the 2003 anime and Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood. The 2003 series begins faithfully following the manga, but diverges significantly midway due to the manga being incomplete at the time. This series features a unique ending and some original characters. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, released in 2009, follows the manga more closely from start to finish, offering a story that aligns with the original author’s vision.
2003 Fullmetal Alchemist
The 2003 series starts with Edward and Alphonse Elric attempting human transmutation, which results in tragic consequences. The story continues with their journey to restore their bodies while uncovering dark secrets and facing morally complex villains. While the early episodes closely follow the manga, the later half introduces unique arcs and characters not present in the source material, leading to a distinct conclusion.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is known for its faithful adaptation of the manga, including characters, plotlines, and the intended ending. While the first few episodes overlap with the 2003 series, Brotherhood progresses differently and includes several arcs that the original series did not cover. This version is often recommended for viewers seeking the most complete and canonical story.
Recommended Viewing Orders
There are several approaches to watching Fullmetal Alchemist, depending on whether you want to experience the story chronologically, fully canonically, or explore both adaptations. Below are some suggested viewing orders
Option 1 Watch Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood First
Many fans recommend starting with Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood because it is the closest to the original manga. Watching Brotherhood first provides a coherent storyline, complete character arcs, and the original intended ending. This order is ideal for new viewers who want a streamlined experience without deviations.
- Start with Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episodes 1-64.
- Optional Watch the movie Fullmetal Alchemist The Sacred Star of Milos after finishing the series.
Option 2 Watch the 2003 Series First
Some viewers prefer to watch the 2003 series first to appreciate the original adaptation and its unique story. This approach offers an alternative ending and allows fans to compare both series. The viewing order in this case would be
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) Episodes 1-51.
- Optional Watch the movie Fullmetal Alchemist Conqueror of Shamballa, which serves as a direct continuation of the 2003 series.
- Then watch Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episodes 1-64 for the canonical storyline.
Option 3 Chronological Manga-Based Experience
For viewers who want a chronological experience aligned closely with the manga, it’s generally recommended to watch both series in the following sequence
- Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episodes 1-64, as it follows the manga completely.
- Supplement with OVAs such as The Blind Alchemist, Simple People, or The Tale of Teacher for additional context.
- Optional Watch the movies based on each series after finishing the corresponding episodes.
Including Movies and OVAs
Both Fullmetal Alchemist adaptations have movies and OVAs that expand the universe or provide side stories. Including these in your viewing order enhances the overall experience
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) Movies
- Conqueror of ShamballaDirect continuation of the 2003 anime, set after the series finale.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Movies
- The Sacred Star of MilosTakes place between Brotherhood episodes and provides an additional adventure, although it is not essential to the main plot.
OVAs
Several OVAs are released for both series, offering light-hearted or character-focused stories. They are optional but can be enjoyable for fans looking for extra content. Examples include
- Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood OVAs such as The Blind Alchemist and Simple People.
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) OVAs providing deeper character insights and comedic side stories.
Tips for New Viewers
For those new to Fullmetal Alchemist, here are some tips to get the most out of your viewing experience
- Decide if you want to focus on the manga-canon storyline (Brotherhood) or experience the original 2003 adaptation.
- Take notes or pay attention to key character relationships, as both series have complex narratives and multiple arcs.
- Watch in a language or subtitle format you are comfortable with to fully appreciate dialogue nuances.
- Consider taking breaks between series to reflect on themes such as sacrifice, morality, and family bonds.
Why the Viewing Order Matters
Understanding the recommended order to watch Fullmetal Alchemist is important because each series offers a different perspective on the story. Watching Brotherhood first provides a clear and canonical experience, while the 2003 series adds unique narrative depth and an alternative ending. Including movies and OVAs at the right points ensures that the story is cohesive and that the viewer enjoys all major plot developments and character arcs without confusion. The chosen order can affect emotional impact, comprehension, and overall enjoyment of the franchise.
Deciding the order to watch Fullmetal Alchemist depends on your priorities as a viewer. If you prefer a complete, manga-accurate storyline with consistent pacing, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is the best starting point. If you enjoy seeing the original adaptation and exploring alternate storylines, starting with the 2003 series is a great choice. Including movies and OVAs at the appropriate points enhances the narrative and offers additional adventures in the Fullmetal Alchemist universe. Regardless of the order chosen, both series deliver compelling characters, deep themes, and unforgettable storytelling that have made Fullmetal Alchemist a beloved anime franchise worldwide.