Which Fullmetal Alchemist anime to watch? Complete Watch Order

Fullmetal Alchemist does a great job of balancing action and comedy while maintaining a meaningful storyline. The story sheds light on themes like crime and war. It also presents various science vs religion based plot elements.

With well thought out characters and a splendid story, Fullmetal Alchemist is definitely worth a watch.

There are two different series revolving around the same characters in the same time setting but different plots when it comes to Fullmetal Alchemist:

1. Fullmetal Alchemist (FMA) (2003)
2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (FMAB) (2009)

1. FMA vs. FMAB

The only difference between the two is that Fullmetal Alchemist does not follow the manga in its latter half. It has 65% fillers. At the same time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood strictly sticks to the manga, with only 2% fillers. Both the series differ quite a bit in their plot.

Besides their plot differences, the first half of FMA has a better and more emotionally accessible attraction. FMAB, on the other hand, has a better and more satisfying conclusion. Both the series however, are masterpieces in their own unique way.

Can you watch FMAB without watching FMA?

This question confuses a lot of the viewers, especially if you’re new to anime. Yes, you can watch FMAB without watching FMA. Both of them are separate stories with different endings, so watching one would not spoil the events taking place in the other.

2. Release Order

• Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) (51 episodes)
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) (64 episodes)

3. Other Media

• The Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Specials
• Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Reflections (Recap)
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Premium Collection
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: 4-Koma Theater

4. Recommended Watch Order

• Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)
• The Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa (the conclusion to FMA 2003)
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)
• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Specials
• Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos (side story)

All Is One - Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Trailer

All of the other OVAs can be skipped as they hold no relevance to any plot or watch order.

5. Conclusion

Fullmetal Alchemist does not have a complex timeline. Whether you watch FMA first or FMAB is also a personal preference.

If you do not wish to spend time watching a non-canon and slightly shorter plot, watch FMA first. Regardless of what you watch first, both provide a unique and amazing experience.

6. About Fullmetal Alchemist

Fullmetal Alchemist is a manga-based anime written by Hiromu Arakawa. It was first published in Monthly Shonen Gangan. The story is about two brothers, Edward and Alphonse.

Both of them gifted with the powers of alchemy. While trying to bring their mother back to life, they fail and are left with severely damaged bodies. They then begin their quest for the philosopher’s stone, which is the only thing that would save them.