Fullmetal Alchemist is one of the most beloved anime franchises, with a gripping story about two brothers’ struggle to regain their lost bodies. With two versions of the anime, bonus episodes, and several movies, it can be tricky to figure out the best order to watch everything. This guide breaks down the correct viewing order and provides insight into each installment, helping you enjoy the story to its fullest.
Overview: What is Fullmetal Alchemist About?
At the heart of Fullmetal Alchemist are two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who dabble in alchemy—a mystical science that allows them to manipulate matter. After their attempt to resurrect their deceased mother fails, the brothers suffer tragic consequences. Edward loses a leg, while Alphonse’s entire body is destroyed, forcing Edward to bind his brother’s soul to a suit of armor by sacrificing his own arm.
Now, the Elric brothers embark on a dangerous journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful artifact that can restore their bodies. Along the way, they confront dark secrets, corrupt governments, and enemies seeking to use alchemy for destructive purposes.
The Correct Viewing Order of Fullmetal Alchemist
There are two main anime adaptations of Fullmetal Alchemist:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) – An original take on the story that diverges from the manga.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) – A reboot that stays faithful to the original manga by Hiromu Arakawa.
If you want to enjoy every aspect of the series, here’s the recommended watch order:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) – This series offers an alternate story that eventually departs from the manga.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Conqueror of Shamballa (2005) – A movie that serves as the direct sequel to the 2003 series.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) – A more complete adaptation that follows the original manga closely.
- Brotherhood – The Blind Alchemist (2009) – A bonus episode that delves into a touching side story.
- Brotherhood – Simple People (2009) – Another short story focusing on characters’ personal lives.
- Brotherhood – The Tale of Teacher (2009) – This episode explores the backstory of Izumi Curtis, the brothers’ mentor.
- Brotherhood – Yet Another Man’s Battlefield (2009) – A prequel bonus episode following Roy Mustang‘s early days.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos (2012) – An action-packed standalone movie set during the Brotherhood timeline.
This order ensures a smooth experience, especially if you’re new to the series. Watching both versions (the 2003 series and Brotherhood) offers a chance to appreciate the creative differences between them.
Understanding the Differences: Fullmetal Alchemist vs. Brotherhood
If you’re wondering which version to start with, here’s a quick comparison:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) diverges from the manga after the first half. It offers an original ending and focuses more on philosophical themes.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) follows the manga’s storyline from start to finish, with 64 episodes and enhanced animation.
If you prefer a more faithful adaptation of the source material, Brotherhood is the better choice. However, the 2003 series provides a unique perspective that complements the overall experience.
Live-Action Adaptations on Netflix
Following the success of the anime, Netflix released a live-action adaptation of Fullmetal Alchemist in 2017. While the film received mixed reviews for its pacing and CGI, Netflix continued the story with two sequels:
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Revenge of Scar (2022)
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Final Alchemy (2022)
These live-action movies closely follow key arcs from the manga and provide an alternative way to experience the story. Though not as well-received as the anime, they offer a fresh take for long-time fans.
Which Version Should You Watch First?
The choice depends on your preference:
- For a complete, faithful experience: Start with Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and its bonus episodes, followed by the Sacred Star of Milos movie.
- For an alternate story with a different ending: Watch the 2003 series first, followed by Conqueror of Shamballa. You can then move on to Brotherhood if you want to explore the manga’s full plotline.
Watching both versions provides the most comprehensive understanding of the characters, themes, and world of Fullmetal Alchemist.
FAQs: Watching Fullmetal Alchemist
Q: Can I skip the 2003 series and watch Brotherhood directly?
A: Yes! Brotherhood stands on its own and follows the original manga’s plot. However, the 2003 series offers unique content that many fans still appreciate.
Q: Is it necessary to watch the bonus episodes of Brotherhood?
A: While not essential to the main plot, the bonus episodes add depth to side characters and are worth watching if you’re a fan.
Q: Where can I watch Fullmetal Alchemist?
A: Both Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Brotherhood are available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix. The live-action films are exclusive to Netflix.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Fullmetal Alchemist Journey
Whether you’re new to Fullmetal Alchemist or revisiting it, following the correct viewing order ensures you don’t miss any key elements of the story. Watching both the 2003 series and Brotherhood allows you to appreciate different interpretations of Edward and Alphonse’s journey.
With movies, bonus episodes, and live-action adaptations available, there’s plenty to explore beyond the main series. Regardless of where you start, Fullmetal Alchemist offers a powerful narrative about sacrifice, brotherhood, and the price of ambition—making it a must-watch for anime fans.
