Fullmetal Alchemist Watch Order: Where to Start

Two adaptations, one question: 2003 or Brotherhood? Here's the spoiler-free order — what to watch, what to skip, and where each piece fits.

Start with Brotherhood (64 eps)

The faithful manga adaptation and the fan-favorite answer — one of the highest-rated anime ever made.

Know that it rushes the early arcs

Brotherhood speeds through the opening chapters assuming you've seen 2003. If the first dozen episodes feel fast, that's why — keep going.

The 2003 series is a different story

Made before the manga finished, it diverges halfway into its own darker ending. Watch it later as an alternate universe, capped by The Conqueror of Shamballa.

Sacred Star of Milos (optional)

A standalone Brotherhood-era film — fine anytime after the midpoint, or never.

💡 Short version: Brotherhood is the definitive experience. 2003 + Shamballa is a worthy alternate timeline for later.

▶ Open in AniFeed & track your progress — free 🛒 Fullmetal Alchemist manga & merch ⏱ How long to catch up?

Fullmetal Alchemist Watch Order: Where to Start

Start with Brotherhood (64 eps)

Know that it rushes the early arcs

The 2003 series is a different story

Sacred Star of Milos (optional)

More watch-order guides