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Discover everything you need to know about the Fullmetal Alchemist series. Explore the story, source material, and watch order.
Fullmetal Alchemist is one of the most celebrated franchises in all of anime. Having dominated ratings for over a decade, the series is considered an unmissable experience for new anime watchers and veterans alike. At the same time, due to its various adaptations and spin-offs, it may be hard for some viewers to navigate.
To help with this, we have come up with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the Fullmetal Alchemist series.
What Is the Fullmetal Alchemist Series About?
At its core, Fullmetal Alchemist follows the tale of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric. After failing in an illegal human transmutation experiment to resuscitate their deceased mother, Edward loses an arm and leg while Alphonse loses his entire body, with his consciousness trapped inside a metal armor.
However, upon discovering the existence of Philosopher’s Stones, which would nullify the equivalent exchange required for Alchemy, the brothers set off on a grand adventure. In the quest to gain this artifact and recover their body, they get embroiled in a nefarious scheme that could threaten the entire world.
With government conspiracies and deadly enemies linked to their enigmatic father, the brothers face several complex moral dilemmas. Fullmetal Alchemist is a series that perfectly blends action, emotion, and deep philosophical inquiries. It delves deep into the cost of knowledge and the intricacies of human nature.
Is There a Fullmetal Alchemist Manga?
Yes, the original Fullmetal Alchemist source material is the manga. The series ran in Monthly Shonen Gangan from 2001 to 2010, concluding with 27 volumes containing 116 chapters. The creator of Fullmetal Alchemist, Hiromu Arakawa, is also known for other notable titles such as Silver Spoon and The Heroic Legend of Arslan.
Fans tend to get confused by the Fullmetal Alchemist light novel, which is often misinterpreted as the original source. In contrast, this is not created by Arakawa, but rather by Makoto Inoue, while under the supervision of Arakawa. The novel contains six volumes, following independent stories of the cast inside the Fullmetal Alchemist world.
While this isn’t necessarily canon material, it is worth reading for fans of the original story. The Fullmetal Alchemist manga, on the other hand, definitely deserves to be read. It gives us a glimpse into the creator’s original vision, remaining engaging from start to end.
Are Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood the Same?
The two adaptations of the Fullmetal Alchemist anime are completely different series. This is one of the rarest cases in the industry, where an anime doesn’t merely get a reboot but a complete retelling of the story by the same studio.
For context, the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime that aired in 2003 was made by Studio Bones and ended with 51 episodes. However, this anime was released when the manga was still ongoing. Hence, upon catching up to the source, the story veered off in its own direction.
Studio Bones later remade their own series in 2009, with the title of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. However, this time, the anime was much more faithful to the manga. It featured improved visuals and a storyline more consistent with the creator’s vision.
Therefore, Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood vary in almost every aspect. They have different tones, characters, arcs, and conclusions.
How To Watch the Fullmetal Alchemist Series
As we have seen, the Fullmetal Alchemist series is split into two main adaptations, the 2003 and 2009 versions.
For the 2003 version, the manner of watching would include:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) – Anime
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Conqueror of Shamballa – Movie
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Premium Collection – OVA
For the 2009 version, the continuity is as follows:
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Anime
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Specials – OVA
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood 4-Koma Theater – Special
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos – Movie
While the above follows the chronological order, many fans also prefer experiencing the 2009 version first. After viewing the “canon” adaptation of the source material, watching the 2003 version would serve as an alternative version of the story.
Is the Fullmetal Alchemist Series Worth Watching?
Fullmetal Alchemist is definitely worth watching, no matter which version you experience. Brotherhood is considered among the greatest anime of all time for its smooth visuals, memorable characters, exciting story, and satisfactory ending.
The 2003 version has also formed a cult following due to its darker and more introspective nature, leaving many viewers in deep thought. Therefore, though both adaptations offer different takes, they are unforgettable, featuring a rich plot with expansive world-building and philosophical themes.
The series is extremely consistent, drawing us into its events while making us feel a rollercoaster of emotions. Hence, this is one saga you do not wish to miss out on.
Conclusion
The Fullmetal Alchemist series is a masterpiece that has left a lasting impact on anime and manga culture. No matter how you start watching it, it will prove to be a compelling experience that has a long-lasting impact.
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