How Many Seasons Are There Of Fullmetal Alchemist

Okay, let's talk about Fullmetal Alchemist. Specifically, how many seasons it has. It's a question that has plagued fans since… well, since the series first charmed us.

The "Official" Answer...

Most people will say there are two. You've got the OG Fullmetal Alchemist from 2003. Then there's the reboot, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.

Case closed, right? Not so fast!

My Wild, Unpopular, Probably Wrong Opinion

I'm going to say it: there are more than two. Prepare for possible outrage.

Think about it. Are they really just different versions of the same story? I argue, no!

Hear Me Out

The 2003 series started out following the manga. But then, it completely diverged. It’s like they took a scenic detour on a road trip.

The ending is totally different! The characters' fates vary wildly. Plus, the overall tone is darker in my opinion.

Brotherhood sticks much closer to the manga’s storyline. It's a faithful adaptation, almost a frame-by-frame recreation in animated form. This makes them distinct entities, in my book.

So, What's My Crazy Proposal?

Okay, here it is. Season 1: Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) up to the point where it diverges from the manga. Season 2: The rest of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), the "original" ending.

Season 3? Obviously, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. It deserves its own category.

Don't forget the movies! Conqueror of Shamballa? It’s practically a whole other season of angst and alchemy.

But Wait, There's More! (Maybe?)

We can even argue about OVAs and specials. Do they count? Are they mini-seasons? The debate never ends!

Let's not forget the live action movie. Okay maybe we should.

Why This Matters (or Doesn't)

Ultimately, it’s all just semantics, right? We all love the Elric brothers. We all enjoy the world of Amestris.

But isn't it fun to think about? Doesn't it make you appreciate the sheer amount of Fullmetal Alchemist content we've been gifted?

For the record, I like them all. Even the weird, non-canon stuff.

So, How Many Seasons?

The "official" answer is still two. But in my heart? It's at least three, maybe even five if we're feeling generous.

Don't @ me. I'm just saying what everyone else is thinking!

What do you think? Am I completely off my rocker? Let me know in the comments. (Or, you know, yell at me on the internet. I'm ready.)