So you've heard about Fullmetal Alchemist, right? Maybe your friends won't stop raving about it, or you saw it topping "best anime" lists. But then you discover there are two different series - Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (2009). Which one do you watch? What's the difference anyway? Let's cut through the confusion together.
I remember being in your shoes years ago. I started with the 2003 version because it was on TV, got completely hooked, then discovered Brotherhood later. Had to rewatch similar early episodes and everything. Could've saved myself time with proper guidance. That's why I'm writing this - so you don't make my mistakes.
What's the Core Story Anyway?
Both series follow brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric in a world where alchemy is high science. After a failed attempt to resurrect their dead mother, Ed loses limbs and Al loses his entire body - his soul gets bound to a suit of armor. They become state alchemists seeking the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies. Simple premise, but the execution? That's where things diverge.
Universal elements in both versions:
Alchemy's rules (equivalent exchange), the Elric brothers' core relationship, military involvement, and that haunting backstory. Where they differ completely? Plot progression after episode 15-ish.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) - The Original Classic
This version started while Hiromu Arakawa's manga was still being written. When the anime caught up to the source material? The writers created their own storyline. That's why it feels darker and more philosophical compared to Brotherhood.
Character focus shifts to the Homunculi (artificial humans) having tragic backstories tied to the brothers' past. The military conspiracy gets heavier screen time. And that ending? Let's just say it's emotionally brutal and divisive. Some fans adore its boldness, others find it unsatisfying. Personally? I respect its ambition but felt it left too many threads dangling.
Here's the essential breakdown of the 2003 series:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Episodes | 51 episodes + 1 movie (Conqueror of Shamballa) |
| Animation Style | Early 2000s aesthetic, darker color palette |
| Key Themes | Loss, grief, consequences of human ambition |
| Original Content Starts | Around episode 30 (diverges from manga) |
| Ending Type | Complete original conclusion (requires movie for closure) |
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood (2009) - The Manga Adaptation
Brotherhood came out when the manga was complete. It follows Arakawa's story beat-for-beat after the first 15 episodes. What you get is a more adventure-driven narrative with richer world-building. More countries, more alchemical secrets, and way more characters like Ling Yao and the Xingese crew.
The pacing? Faster after those initial episodes. Brotherhood rockets toward an epic finale involving national conspiracies and god-like entities. While it has dark moments, there's more humor and hope woven throughout. The animation quality visibly improves too - those alchemy fight scenes pop with modern fluidity.
When I rewatched Brotherhood last year, I noticed details I'd missed before - subtle foreshadowing in early episodes that pays off much later. Clever writing that only works because they knew the entire story from day one.
Essential Brotherhood facts:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Episodes | 64 complete episodes (no required movies) |
| Animation Style | Crisp modern animation with vibrant colors |
| Key Themes | Sacrifice, redemption, political corruption |
| Manga Fidelity | 95% accurate adaptation after episode 15 |
| Ending Type | Satisfying conclusion directly from manga |
Side-by-Side Comparison: Fullmetal Alchemist vs Brotherhood
Still debating fullmetal alchemist or brotherhood? This table covers what most fans care about:
| Comparison Point | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) | Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood |
|---|---|---|
| Story Completion | Original anime-only ending | Complete manga storyline |
| Pacing | Slower build, more character-focused | Faster action pacing after episode 15 |
| Animation Quality | Dated but atmospheric (early 2000s) | Modern, fluid, vibrant (2009 standards) |
| Main Villains | Homunculi with tragic origins | Father and the Homunculi as tools |
| World Building | Focus on Amestris | Expands to Xing, Ishval, other nations |
| Ending Satisfaction | Mixed reactions (requires movie) | Universally praised conclusion |
| Episode Count | 51 + movie | 64 episodes |
| Humorous Moments | Minimal comic relief | Balances humor with darkness |
Which One Actually Has Better Characters?
This depends entirely on what you value:
Original FMA (2003):
Dives deeper into psychological trauma. Roy Mustang's vengeance arc hits harder here. Maes Hughes? You'll feel that loss for weeks. Homunculi like Lust and Sloth have tragic dimensions missing in Brotherhood.
Brotherhood:
Gives nearly everyone satisfying development. Ling Yao becomes a fan favorite. Olivier Armstrong might be the best female commander in anime history. Even minor characters get moments to shine. Villains serve a clearer purpose in the grand scheme.
I prefer Brotherhood's character work overall - except for one thing. The original 2003 series handled Nina Tucker's storyline with more emotional weight. Brotherhood rushes through it, lessening the impact for new viewers. There, I said it.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting Showdown
Both have iconic openings - "Again" by YUI for Brotherhood remains unbeatable in my playlist. Voice acting? Same Japanese cast in both series, delivering consistently stellar performances. English dub fans argue passionately about which version is better.
Musical tone differs significantly:
- 2003: Brooding orchestral pieces with haunting vocals
- Brotherhood: Diverse tracks ranging from military marches to epic battle themes
The Million-Dollar Question: Watch Order Explained
Honestly? Your choice depends on time and preferences:
Option 1: Brotherhood Only (For Most People)
If you only watch one, make it Brotherhood. It's the complete vision with superior animation. You'll understand why it's constantly ranked #1 on anime sites. Takes about 21 hours total.
Option 2: Full Experience (For Completionists)
1. Watch FMA 2003 episodes 1-25
2. Switch to Brotherhood episode 11 onward
3. Finish Brotherhood completely
4. Watch FMA movie: Conqueror of Shamballa
Why? You get the stronger early character development from 2003 plus Brotherhood's payoff. Downside? Takes 50+ hours.
Option 3: The Release Order
Watch all of 2003 series + movie first, then Brotherhood. You'll spot differences like a treasure hunt. Only recommended if you love comparing adaptations.
Where to Watch Fullmetal Alchemist Legally
Availability changes, but currently:
| Platform | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) | Brotherhood | Subscription Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchyroll | ✓ Available | ✓ Available | Premium for new episodes |
| Netflix | Region-dependent | ✓ Most regions | Yes |
| Hulu | ✓ Available | ✓ Available | Yes |
| Funimation | ✓ Available | ✓ Available | Yes |
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episode Breakdown
Thinking of starting Brotherhood? Here's how the arcs unfold:
| Episodes | Arc Name | Key Events | Approx. Watch Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-14 | Introduction Arc | Origin story, State Alchemist exam, early homunculi encounters | 5 hours |
| 15-26 | Rush Valley & Lab 5 | Automail upgrades, Philosopher's Stone research intensifies | 4.5 hours |
| 27-38 | Ishval Flashback | Mustang's backstory, military secrets revealed | 4 hours |
| 39-50 | Northern Fortress Siege | Briggs introduction, homunculi showdown | 4.5 hours |
| 51-64 | The Final Battle | Father's plan, nationwide transmutation, epic conclusion | 5 hours |
Your Fullmetal Alchemist or Brotherhood Questions Answered
Is Brotherhood a sequel to Fullmetal Alchemist?
Not at all. Brotherhood is a complete reboot that follows the manga faithfully. You can watch it without seeing the 2003 version.
Why does Brotherhood start so fast?
Because the first 14 episodes cover material the 2003 series already did in 25 episodes. They assume you've either seen it or want quicker pacing.
Which version is more popular?
Brotherhood consistently ranks higher (#1 on MyAnimeList). But the 2003 version has a strong cult following who prefer its darker tone.
Are the movies necessary?
For Brotherhood? No. For the 2003 series? Conqueror of Shamballa provides essential closure. Brotherhood movies are side stories.
How violent is Fullmetal Alchemist?
Both have intense moments - human experimentation, wartime violence. Brotherhood has more battle sequences; 2003 has psychological horror elements. Not for young kids.
Can I watch Brotherhood dubbed?
The English dub is excellent. Vic Mignogna as Ed and Aaron Dismuke as Al deliver iconic performances across both series.
Final Verdict: Which Fullmetal Alchemist Wins?
After all these years and multiple rewatches? Brotherhood takes the crown for me. The complete narrative arc, payoff for every character, and those unforgettable final episodes make it transcendent storytelling. Does this mean the 2003 version is bad? Absolutely not - it's a fascinating alternate take with stronger emotional moments in places.
But if you're asking "should I watch fullmetal alchemist or brotherhood first?" I'd say:
- Choose Brotherhood if you want the complete canonical story with best-in-class animation
- Choose 2003 version if you prefer character-driven narratives with darker themes
- Watch both if you adore comparative analysis and have 70+ hours to spare
Whichever path you take through Amestris, you're in for one of anime's greatest achievements. The journey changes you - much like equivalent exchange demands sacrifice for gain. Now if you'll excuse me, this conversation makes me want to rewatch Brotherhood's finale again. That last battle? Chills every single time.
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