What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedFullmetal Alchemist
Fumihiko Sori · Film · 2017
If you loved Fullmetal Alchemist, start with Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) — a series from the same story. Below: 4 books, 2 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Fullmetal Alchemist across media.
If you loved Fullmetal Alchemist, these stories will satisfy your craving for high-stakes journeys fueled by profound sibling bonds and moral complexity.
Start with the source
The source
Fullmetal Alchemist
Series · 2003
Adaptation
Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa
Seiji Mizushima · Film · 2005
Adaptation
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Series · 2009
Books on the same thread
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
J. K. Rowling · Book · 1997
Explores: Good vs. Evil, Orphanhood, Friendship.
Much like the Elric brothers in Fullmetal Alchemist, this story centers on young protagonists navigating a dangerous world of magic while grappling with the heavy burden of their destiny.
The Alchemist
Paulo Coelho · Book · 1988
Explores: Personal Legend, Fate and Free Will, Following Your Dreams.
Fans of Fullmetal Alchemist will appreciate this philosophical exploration of alchemy and the spiritual cost of pursuing one's personal legend, mirroring the brothers' own search for universal truths.
Alchemy of Secrets
Stephanie Garber · Book
Explores: ticking clock, magical artifacts, high-stakes adventure.
This high-stakes quest echoes the frantic urgency found in Fullmetal Alchemist, focusing on the pursuit of powerful alchemical artifacts that carry significant consequences for the characters involved.
Demon Slayer
Koyoharu Gotoge · Book · 2018
Explores: Sibling Bond, Grief, Moral Duty.
The core of Fullmetal Alchemist is the unbreakable bond between siblings, a theme central to this story as a brother fights to restore his sister after a tragic transformation.
Series on the same thread
Alchemy of Souls
Hong Jeong-eun · Series · 2022
Explores: Destiny vs. Free Will, Master-Disciple Relationship, Forbidden Love.
This series captures the intricate master-disciple dynamics and the struggle against fate seen in Fullmetal Alchemist, blending complex magic systems with the heavy weight of forbidden knowledge.
Arcane
Christian Linke · Series · 2021
Shares a thread with Fullmetal Alchemist: Moral Ambiguity.
The moral ambiguity and industrial steampunk aesthetic of Fullmetal Alchemist are expertly reflected here, as sisters find themselves on opposite sides of a war fueled by technological advancement.
Podcasts on the same thread
The Adventure Zone
The McElroys · Podcast · 2026
Explores: improvised storytelling, group dynamics, high fantasy satire.
This podcast channels the camaraderie and group dynamics that define the journey in Fullmetal Alchemist, providing a lighter but equally immersive experience through its high-stakes tabletop adventure storytelling.
The Truth
The Truth · Podcast · 2026
Shares a thread with Fullmetal Alchemist: moral ambiguity.
These cinematic stories mirror the moral ambiguity found in Fullmetal Alchemist, forcing listeners to confront the human condition through short, impactful narratives that explore the consequences of difficult choices.
Keep exploring
Common questions
What order should I watch the Fullmetal Alchemist adaptations in?
You can start with the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist television series followed by the 2005 movie Conqueror of Shamballa. Alternatively, you can watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, which is a separate adaptation. The 2017 live-action Fullmetal Alchemist movie is a distinct interpretation of the brothers' quest for the Philosopher's Stone.
Is the 2017 Fullmetal Alchemist movie a sequel to the 2009 series?
No, the 2017 Fullmetal Alchemist movie is not a sequel to Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. It is a live-action adaptation that covers the brothers' quest for the Philosopher's Stone following their failed attempt to revive their mother, serving as a standalone film rather than a continuation of previous animated series.
How does the 2017 Fullmetal Alchemist movie compare to the 2003 series?
The 2017 Fullmetal Alchemist movie is a live-action adaptation of the brothers' journey to find the Philosopher's Stone. While it shares the core premise of the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist television series, the 2017 film is a shorter, live-action production rather than a long-form animated television series.
Should I watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood if I enjoyed the 2017 film?
Yes, if you enjoyed the 2017 Fullmetal Alchemist movie, you should watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. It is a television series that provides a more extensive exploration of the brothers' quest for the Philosopher's Stone and their attempt to revive their mother compared to the condensed 2017 live-action film.