How to Watch Fullmetal Alchemist and Brotherhood in Order (2026 Guide)

There are very few anime series that will confuse first-timers more than Fullmetal Alchemist. Why? Because Fullmetal Alchemist actually refers to not just one but two different TV anime series – Fullmetal Alchemist (original), which was first broadcast in 2003, and the later Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, which sticks closer to the source material. Now, when we add the films, OVAs, specials, and different streams to choose from, it becomes a little chaotic, and many new fans end up asking the same question: Where should I even begin?

The answer is pretty simple – there is no wrong way to enter this world of alchemy, tragedy, brotherhood, war, and redemption. Whether you are looking for the recommended way to get into the series, watching everything in chronological order, or just want a quick way to dive into the franchise in 2026, the following guide will show you how to do it.

Difference Between Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

First and foremost, it is critical that you know the main difference between the two series. The 2003 anime adaptation was released when Hiromu Arakawa‘s manga series was still in production. Thus, the anime eventually ended up developing an anime-only second half and conclusion. The series is much slower-paced emotionally and has a darker atmosphere.

In comparison, Brotherhood was produced with original manga content and covers the whole intended story arc. It moves quicker at the start, and it ends up becoming a much larger-scale story. The fans often claim that it is one of the greatest anime adaptations of all time.

VersionRelease YearEpisodesAnime Rating (MAL)Follows Manga?Best For

Fullmetal Alchemist	2003	51	8.12 / 10	Starts faithful, later diverges	Darker alternate story
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood	2009	64	9.11 / 10	Yes, closely follows manga	First-time viewers
The Sacred Star of Milos	2011	Movie	7.26 / 10	Side story	Extra content

In case you can only choose one, choose Brotherhood.

Quick Answer: Best Fullmetal Alchemist Watch Order in 2026

For the easiest way to go in 2026, watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood first. It remains the best starting point and the most complete version of Hiromu Arakawa’s masterpiece.

Next, if you wish to see the darker version, check out the 2003 anime and its sequel movie, which gives you an option to explore this story through a darker lens. To be clear, the experience of seeing both shows is like having two artists paint the same legend in their own styles.

It would be a shame not to at least check out both shows because they are both amazing. Here is what we recommend –

• Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (64 episodes)
• Brotherhood OVAs/Specials
• The Sacred Star of Milos (optional movie)
• Watch the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist anime after Brotherhood as an alternate version
• End with the Conqueror of Shamballa movie from 2005

That is the way to go!

Fullmetal Alchemist Chronological Watch Order

We have seen the difference between the two Fullmetal Alchemist versions and got the best watch order for the same as well. Now, if you want to watch everything based on the universal timeline logic and story flow, then here is the ideal watch order to follow.

1. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

In this version, anime audiences meet Edward and Alphonse Elric for the first time. They lose their bodies due to forbidden human transmutation and start hunting the Philosopher’s Stone.

The first part of this version consists of the manga material filled with strong emotional depth. After that, in the second part, it moves towards its original story. There are many fans who appreciate it due to its dark setting and emphasis on the character.

2. Fullmetal Alchemist: The Conqueror of Shamballa (2005)

It picks right from where the 2003 version of the anime left off and is a must if you followed the story from that version.

It deals with the emotional threads that were not tied off in the anime version and gives closure to characters left hanging after the series finale.

3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)

Finally comes the definitive one. Brotherhood starts the story at a much faster pace, as many viewers were already aware of the story from 2003. It moves forward and expands the storyline to include government corruption, atrocities of war, immortality, and sacrifice.

It is the most recommended version even in 2026.

4. Brotherhood OVAs & Specials

These side stories involve character backgrounds, funny episodes, and emotional scenes that do not belong to the main story arc.

Good to watch after the main series.

5. Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos (2011)

This standalone film shows Ed and Al on their own mission in a different land. This is an interesting and fun watch; however, it is not needed for the main storyline.

Imagine it as a dessert after your main dish.

Fullmetal Alchemist Watch Order Based on Release Date (Best for First-Time Viewers)

Fans always want to know whether they should start with 2003 or Brotherhood. Below are the best ways to do it as per the release dates for both versions.

Route A: Based on Original Release Date

• FMA 2003
• Conqueror of Shamballa
• Brotherhood
• OVAs
• Sacred Star of Milos

This is how anime viewers watched the whole series over time, so if you are looking to enjoy the series based on the exact release date order, then Route A is the one to follow.

Route B: The Modern Way to View It (Preferred)

• Brotherhood
• Brotherhood OVA
• Sacred Star of Milos
• FMA 2003
• Conqueror of Shamballa

Route B is the way if you want to follow the original canon story from the manga only. It is the easiest way to watch because Brotherhood starts by telling the full story, then allows you to enjoy the other storyline.

What to Skip (If You Are Short on Time)

Everybody does not want to sit through 100+ episodes and films. Thus, here are the things you can safely skip depending on what you want to experience. If you only want the best story, watch only Brotherhood.

And that is already enough to get one of the greatest stories in anime, which also follows the original manga source.

However, if you are interested in emotional depth and in a different kind of storytelling than the manga, then you should also watch FMA 2003, Conqueror of Shamballa and Sacred Star of Milos. Just don’t confuse 2003 as being filler material, as this is another alternate story with its unique style.

Where to Watch Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood in 2026

Finding your legal platform to watch is a must because anime rights tend to change from time to time. This is more difficult when you go for classics like Fullmetal Alchemist (2003). Thus, you may need a rental purchase to access it, depending on your country.

Here is an overview of the platforms on which you can view Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood for several regions.

RegionPlatforms

North America	Crunchyroll, Hulu, Netflix
Central & South America	Crunchyroll, Netflix (select countries)
Europe	Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video (select countries)
Africa	Netflix
India	Crunchyroll, Prime Video
Southeast Asia	Crunchyroll
Japan	Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, d Anime Store
China	Bilibili (regional availability)

Here are some of the frequently asked questions –

So now the big question – which Fullmetal Alchemist watch order are you choosing in 2026 – Brotherhood first or the classic 2003 route? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.