The Best Way to Watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Unlike some shows that jump around in time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is pretty straightforward. But, it’s important to know that there are two different Fullmetal Alchemist anime. This guide is all about **Brotherhood**, which follows the original manga (comic book) much more closely.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010) – Episodes 1-64: This is the main part of the story. Just watch all 64 episodes in order. They tell the complete story of Edward and Alphonse Elric.
That’s all there is to it! There are also some extra short stories called OVAs and a movie, but you can watch those later if you want. They don’t change the main story.
Why Watching in Order is Important
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has a carefully planned story. Watching the episodes in the right order helps you understand why the characters do what they do, what the country of Amestris is like, and how alchemy works. If you skip episodes or watch them out of order, you might get confused and not enjoy the show as much.
Extra Stuff to Watch (If You Want!)
After you finish the main series, here are some extra things you can watch if you want even more Fullmetal Alchemist:
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood OVAs: These are short, fun stories that show you more about the characters’ lives and give you extra details about some events.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos (Movie): This movie is a side story that happens during the Brotherhood timeline. It’s fun to watch, but you don’t need to see it to understand the main story. Some people suggest watching it after episode 30 of the main series.
Where to Watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood in 2025
As of July 6, 2025, you can find Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood on many different streaming services. Here are some of the most popular:
- Crunchyroll: This is a great place to watch anime, and they have Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood with subtitles and often with English voices.
- Funimation: Funimation also has Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, sometimes with special versions that you can only find there.
- Netflix: Depending on where you live, Netflix might have Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.
- Hulu: Hulu also has Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood in some areas.
Check the streaming services in your country to see if they have it. You can also buy the show on DVD or Blu-ray from places like Amazon.
Brotherhood vs. the Original Anime: What’s the Difference?
It’s really important to know that there are two different Fullmetal Alchemist anime. The first one came out in 2003, but the manga was still being written at the time. So, the anime started to tell its own story that was different from the manga. Brotherhood, on the other hand, sticks much closer to the complete manga story. If you want to see the real Fullmetal Alchemist story, Brotherhood is the one to watch.
The 2003 version is still good, but it’s basically a different version of the story. Many fans recommend watching Brotherhood first to see the main story.
Why Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is Still Popular
Even in 2025, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is still loved by many people because:
- The Characters are Great: Edward and Alphonse Elric are easy to relate to, and they have clear goals and interesting stories. The other characters are also well-developed.
- The World is Interesting: The world of Amestris has a lot of details, like its own history, culture, and government. Alchemy is also well-explained and makes the story more interesting.
- It Talks About Important Things: The show explores themes like what’s right and wrong, what sacrifices people make, and what happens because of our actions. It makes you think about good and evil.
- It’s Exciting and Emotional: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has both exciting fight scenes and emotional moments, which makes it a really great show to watch.
More Reasons to Watch
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood isn’t just a good anime; it’s a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The series delves deep into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of loss, redemption, and the unwavering bonds of family. The Elric brothers’ journey is not just about restoring their bodies; it’s about confronting their past mistakes and learning valuable lessons about the world around them.
The intricate plot weaves together political intrigue, scientific exploration, and philosophical ponderings, creating a rich tapestry that keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end. The villains are not simply evil for the sake of being evil; they have their own motivations and beliefs, which adds layers of complexity to the narrative. This nuanced approach to storytelling is one of the reasons why Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood stands out from other anime series.
Furthermore, the animation quality is superb, with fluid fight scenes and detailed character designs. The soundtrack is equally impressive, perfectly complementing the mood and atmosphere of each scene. From the upbeat opening themes to the melancholic ending songs, the music enhances the emotional impact of the story.
Beyond the entertainment value, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood offers valuable life lessons. It teaches us the importance of perseverance, the power of forgiveness, and the significance of human connection. The series encourages us to question authority, to think critically, and to strive for a better world.
In a world filled with countless anime series, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood remains a timeless classic. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its exceptional storytelling, compelling characters, and profound themes. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan or a newcomer to the genre, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Final Thoughts
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a must-see anime for anyone who loves the genre. By following this simple guide, you can fully enjoy the show’s detailed story, memorable characters, and deep themes. So, get some snacks, get comfortable, and get ready for an amazing adventure with the Elric brothers!