Is Fullmetal Alchemist Finished?#
Yes, the story of Fullmetal Alchemist is complete. The original manga ran from 2001 to 2010, providing a definitive conclusion to the journey of the Elric brothers. Because there are multiple anime adaptations, viewers may wonder if they need the source material to get a satisfying ending.
If you watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, you are watching a retelling that follows the manga’s path to its conclusion. The original 2003 series also reaches its own conclusion, though it diverges from the manga, with the movie Conqueror of Shamballa serving as its sequel. Whether you choose the 2003 route or the Brotherhood route, you will find a finished story. If you want the definitive experience in print, you can buy the Fullmetal Alchemist manga to see how the legend began.
What is Fullmetal Alchemist About?#
Fullmetal Alchemist is a masterclass in blending adventure, comedy, drama, and fantasy. The plot follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who attempted to revive their deceased mother using alchemy. The experiment went tragically wrong: Edward lost his leg and arm, while Alphonse lost his entire physical body.
Years later, Edward has become a “State Alchemist” (a nationally recognized alchemist), and Alphonse’s soul is bound to a suit of metal armor. Together, they search for a way to restore their bodies.
Themes and Appeal#
This series is ideal for viewers who enjoy deep world-building and complex narratives. It heavily features:
- Steampunk Aesthetics: A unique blend of industrial technology and magic.
- Political Intrigue: Themes of conspiracy, military power, and war.
- Emotional Depth: Exploration of death, revenge, tragedy, and the bonds of family.
- Supernatural Elements: The mystery of the Homunculi and the laws of alchemy.
If this sounds like your kind of story, you can watch the anime on Prime Video to start your journey.
Recommended Watch Orders#
Because of the unique relationship between the different versions of the show, the order you watch depends on your goals. You can refer to the relationship tree on this page for a visual breakdown of how these titles connect.
The Release Order#
For those who want to experience the franchise as it was released to the public:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003 Anime)
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Movie - Conqueror of Shamballa
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos
The Completionist Order#
If you want every single piece of content, including the shorts and specials, follow this path:
- Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Premium Collection (which includes Seven Homunculi VS State Alchemists, Chibi Party, and Kids)
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Movie - Conqueror of Shamballa
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos
The “Source Material” Route#
For those who want the most accurate adaptation of the manga’s plot without unnecessary repetition, start and end with Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. This version is an alternate retelling that stays true to the original vision of the manga.
If you enjoy the world and want more, we highly recommend exploring the Fullmetal Alchemist merchandise to bring a piece of the Elric brothers’ world home.
If you’ve found this guide helpful in planning your binge-watch, consider supporting us on Ko-fi to keep our research going!
Additional Useful Information#
For fans looking for more ways to engage with the series beyond the anime:
- Webtoons: The Fullmetal Alchemist manga has recently come to Webtoon in full color.
- Stage Plays: The series has expanded into live theater, with stage play adaptations produced in 2023 and 2024.
- Manga Anniversary: The manga’s 20th anniversary has been celebrated with special theater projects.
Regardless of which version you choose, Fullmetal Alchemist remains one of the most highly regarded series in the medium due to its tight plotting and emotional resonance.
Fullmetal Alchemist • manga • 2001-07-12 to 2010-06-11 (Shonen Gangan, Aug 2001 - Jul 2010)
└─(adaptation)→ Fullmetal Alchemist • anime • 2003-10-04 to 2004-10-02
└─(sequel)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: The Movie - Conqueror of Shamballa • anime • 2005
└─(related)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Premium Collection • anime • 2006-03-29
└─(part)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Seven Homunculi VS State Alchemists • anime • 2006
└─(part)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Chibi Party • anime • 2006
└─(part)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Kids • anime • 2006
└─(alternate retelling)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood • anime • 2009-04-05 to 2010-07-04
└─(side story)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos • anime • 2011-07-02
└─(side story)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood • anime • 2009-08-26
└─(spinoff)→ Fullmetal Alchemist: The Complete Four-Panel Comics • manga • 2017-11
