29 Questions That Have Left Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Fans Eager for Answers

Fullmetal Alchemist is a rollercoaster of emotions. From beginning to the end, there’s nothing that I regret watching.

If I have to rate this show, I’d say it’s 9 out of 10. 

I would have given it a 10 but the first 10 episodes of this show are boring for me. But yeah, this is my personal experience. Yours could be different. 

Anyways… In this blog post, I’ll tell you everything you want to know about Fullmetal Alchemist. So let’s begin without wasting any more time! 

Spoilers Ahead: The following information contains spoilers for the series “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.” Please proceed with caution if you haven’t finished watching the show.

#1 – What is Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood about?

Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is about two brothers: Edward Elric and Alphonse Elric. Before you understand what Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is about, you have to understand what Alchemy is. 

Alchemy is a science as well as art. In other words, it’s an art where we use natural energy to alter matter. As far as I have learned from the Fullmetal Alchemist, where we do something like this, it’s called Transmutation. 

Edward Elric said, it takes comprehension, deconstruction, and reconstruction. 

Everytime someone transmutes, there’s a law behind it which is called ‘the law of equivalent exchange.’ 

In Fullmetal Alchemist, Edward and Alphonse try to bring their dead mother back using Alchemy. Somewhere along the lines, things go wrong and Edward loses his one arm and leg. 

On the other hand, Alphonse loses his body. 

In order to save Alphonse, Edward ties his soul to an armor. Till the very end, both brothers struggle to get their bodies back and go on multiple adventurous trips. 

#2 – How many episodes are there in Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

There are 64 episodes in total. Although the 4th, 10th, and 37th episodes are filler, you must not skip those. They were quite fun for me. 

#3 – What is the difference between Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

First, Fullmetal Alchemist 2003 is an old version of this anime. So the graphics are not cool either. 

Second, a guy on Twitter told me the 2003 version is as dark as DC comics. You might get Bruce Wayne-like vibes.

Third, there’s no connection between the Brotherhood and the 2003 series. So they both follow a different story. 

I have not seen Fullmetal Alchemist 2003 because I didn’t enjoy the animation in the first episode. I’m the kind of guy who likes high-quality series, so I had to skip it. If you want you can watch it, it’s your call. 

#4 – Who are the main characters in Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

I must say this is one of those series where you come across a lot of characters. Here I’m listing some of the main characters: 

• Edward Elric 
• Alphonse Elric
• Hohenheim 
• Trisha Elric 
• King Bradley 
• Maes Hughes
• Roy Mustang 
• Riza Hawkeye 
• Maria Ross
• Scar
• Selim Bradley 
• Greed
• Doctor Marcoh 
• Shou Tucker 
• Havoc 
• Envy 
• Izumi Curtis 
• Lan Fan
• Alex Louis Armstrong 
• Gluttony 

There’s a possibility I might have forgotten about some characters, don’t get upset with me because I can’t remember all the characters. I’m a human being after all 🙁 

#5 – What is the significance of the “Philosopher’s Stone” in the Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

The Philosopher’s stone is a powerful red coloured gem that has immense power. It can create a homunculi, generate lost body parts, bring back bodies lost in the transmutation, or even cause a disaster. 

Edward and Alphonse did their best to get this stone. But unfortunately when they realized it’s made from human lives, they made a promise that they won’t use it to bring their bodies back. 

#6 – Is Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood based on a manga?

Yes, the story is based on the Fullmetal Alchemist Manga which was created by Hiromu Arakwa. 

#7 – What is the best order to watch Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

Both shows have different storylines. You can watch whatever you want to watch first. But personally, I’d say you can watch Fullmetal Alchemist 2003 first because once you watch the Brotherhood, you won’t feel like watching the old one. Trust me, the animation is terrible. 

#8 – Are there any significant differences between the anime and the manga of Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

Yes, there are some significant differences between the anime adaptation, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, and the original manga of Fullmetal Alchemist. While both the anime and the manga follow the same general storyline and feature similar characters, there are variations in certain aspects. Here are some key differences:

1. Pacing and Storyline: The most significant difference between the anime and the manga lies in the pacing and overall storytelling approach. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood closely follows the manga’s storyline from beginning to end and provides a more faithful adaptation. The original Fullmetal Alchemist anime, released in 2003, deviated from the manga’s plot and created its own unique story after catching up to the manga. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, released in 2009, was produced to accurately depict the events of the manga.

2. Introduction and Early Story Arcs: In the 2003 anime, the early episodes cover the manga’s content but then diverge into an original storyline. The original anime introduced certain characters and events that do not exist in the manga. In contrast, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood stays true to the manga from the beginning, starting with the Elric brothers’ introduction and following the manga’s story arcs more faithfully.

3. Tone and Themes: The original Fullmetal Alchemist anime has a slightly darker and more philosophical tone compared to Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The 2003 anime explores themes of identity, existentialism, and the consequences of meddling with alchemy. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood also tackles these themes but maintains a more action-oriented and fast-paced approach while incorporating a sense of humor.

4. Ending: The endings of the two adaptations differ significantly. Since the 2003 anime diverged from the manga’s plot, it had to create an original conclusion. In contrast, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows the manga’s ending closely. The manga’s ending is generally regarded as more satisfying by fans due to its comprehensive and well-developed resolution.

#9 – Where can I watch Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood online?

Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is available on Netflix and Hotstar. 

#10 – Are there any spin-off movies or OVAs related to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

Yes, there are several spin-off movies and OVAs (original video animations) related to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood. 

Here I’m listing those: 

• The Blind Alchemist
• Simple People
• The Tale of Teacher
• Yet Another Man’s Battlefield

#11 – Are there any Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood video games?

Yes, there are several video games based on the Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood series. Here are some notable ones:

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): This is an action-adventure game released for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. It closely follows the storyline of the anime series, allowing players to control the Elric brothers and experience their journey as State Alchemists.
2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Dual Sympathy (2005): This is a fighting game released for Nintendo DS. It features a unique story that combines elements from both the Fullmetal Alchemist manga and the anime adaptations.
3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Senka wo Takuseshi Mono (2010): This is a turn-based strategy RPG released for PlayStation Portable. The game includes an original story set in the Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood universe, featuring the Elric brothers and other familiar characters.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Yakusoku no Hi e (2010): This is an adventure game released for Wii. It offers an original story that takes place after the events of the Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood anime.
5. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Omoide no Sonata (2011): This is an adventure game released for PSP. It features an original story in which the Elric brothers search for a mythical artifact known as the Philosopher’s Stone.

#12 – Why Isn’t Fullmetal Alchemist on Crunchyrolls? 

While Crunchyroll and Funimation are both owned by Sony, there are distinctions between the two platforms. Despite being under the same corporate umbrella, they have different content offerings. Funimation features certain anime shows that are not available on Crunchyroll, even though they share a parent company.

#13 – Where was Fullmetal Alchemist made? 

It was made in Japan. 

#14 – How was Hohenheim able to return souls in Brotherhood? 

Hohenheim’s alchemy is described as unique compared to others. It can be inferred that his alchemy combines elements of Xerxes’ alchemy, Xingese Alkahestry, and Amestrian alchemy, along with the power of his own philosopher’s stone. This fusion alchemy enables him to strategically place fragments of his stone in specific locations, utilizing the shadow of the moon as his transmutation circle. Through this process, he is able to destroy the Amestrian philosopher’s stone and restore souls to their rightful bodies.

#15 – How did Scar get his scar? 

In Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Scar’s distinctive facial scar is a result of the Ishvalan Civil War. Scar’s real name is never revealed in the series. During the war, he was an Ishvalan warrior priest who witnessed the devastation caused by State Alchemists employed by the Amestrian military.

Scar’s hatred towards alchemy grew immensely, and he sought revenge on State Alchemists. In a moment of intense anger and desperation, Scar’s older brother attempted to use alchemy to save Scar’s life but ended up sacrificing himself in the process. The failed transmutation left Scar’s right arm permanently scarred, and his left arm was marked with a powerful array that allows him to destroy or “deconstruct” objects with a touch.

Scar’s scar serves as a constant reminder of the pain, loss, and destruction caused by the war and the alchemical powers he despises.

#16 – How did Ishvalan reverse transmutation circle help in fighting pride? 

This transmutation circle, formed by the combined efforts of Scar’s brother and other alchemists, served multiple purposes. Firstly, it acted as a countermeasure against the Amestrian philosopher’s stone, destroying it and depriving Pride of his power source. Secondly, it allowed the souls within the stone to be returned to their original bodies, undoing the suffering inflicted upon them.

Furthermore, Ed, Al, and other individuals were able to utilize Scar’s brother’s transmutation circle to remove the block that Father had imposed on Amestrian alchemy. By doing so, they regained control over alchemy, enabling them to fight against Father and his homunculi more effectively.

So basically, the Ishvalan reverse or anti transmutation circle, orchestrated through the collaboration of Hohenheim, Scar’s brother, and other alchemists, played a pivotal role in neutralizing Pride, freeing trapped souls, and reclaiming control over Amestrian alchemy.

#17 – Why Can’t Edward Use Alchemy Anymore? 

When it comes to Alchemy, there’s a law of equivalent exchange. Inside the gate of truth, Edward exchanged his Alchemy for the sake of Alphonse’s body. 

#18 – Why Can’t Alphonse Use Alchemy Anymore? 

Who said that? Of course, Alphonse can use Alchemy after getting his body back. After all he didn’t pay the toll, his brother did. You haven’t seen Alphonse using Alchemy again because maybe he doesn’t want to due to past trauma. 

#19 – Is King Bradley Wrath or Pride? 

King Bradley is wrath, pride is his son Selim Bradley. 

#20 – Are Riza Hawkeye and Roy Mustang in love? 

In the entire show, they have looked out for each other. As far as I have noticed, they are definitely in love. Although they never proposed to each other in the series, anyone can tell they’re in love. 

#22 – Why Did Roy Mustang Lose His Eyesight? 

Roy Mustang lost his eyesight because he was forced to go through the portal of truth. Due to the law of equivalent exchange, he lost his eyesight. In other words, it’s just like Edward and Al lost their bodies. 

#23 – Are Ed and Winry in love? 

Yes, they are definitely in love. In the end, Ed told Winry that it would be great if she could do an equivalent exchange with her. He gives half his life to her and she gives half of her life to him. In response to this, Winry was annoyed and said something like, “ why do you have to do everything the alchemy way, I can even give you full life, maybe 90%, 80%, or 75%.” 

#24 – What happened to Nina Tucker? 

Shou Tucker turns Nina Tucker into a Chimera. When Scar saw her like that, he murdered her. Undoubtedly, this was the saddest scene in Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood. 

#25 – What episode does Ling become Greed? 

In Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Ling Yao becomes the new Greed in Episode 14. In this episode, titled “Those Who Lurk Underground,” Ling makes a pact with the original Greed, who was killed by King Bradley earlier in the series. Ling allows Greed’s soul to possess his body, resulting in the fusion of their identities. From that point on, Ling shares his body with the Greed persona and inherits his abilities and powers as an “Ultimate Shield.” This event marks the beginning of Ling’s transformation into the Homunculus known as Greed.

#26 – Is Maria Ross still alive? 

After the chaos of the events surrounding Maes Hughes’ death, Maria Ross is wrongfully accused and convicted of his murder. So Roy Mustang tries to fake her death with a dummy. In Episode 19, titled “Death of the Undying,” it is shown that Roy Mustang, Edward Elric, and others staged Maria Ross’ death in order to protect her from being executed. They used a charred corpse and orchestrated a plan to make it appear as if she died in the fire. In reality, they smuggled her out of the country, ensuring her survival.

Later in the series, it is disclosed that Maria Ross is alive and well. She makes her reappearance and plays a role in the fight against the Homunculi and their plans.

#27 – How Does Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood End? 

While fighting the Pride, Edward finds his right arm struck with a rod. He can’t move and Pride is on his way to get his life so that he can make a philosopher’s stone, after all he’s weak at this point. At that moment, Alphonse asks Shao May to transmute his soul for Edward’s hand. And guess what? Al loses his soul here and it goes inside the gate of truth. 

Now after this, Edward goes crazy because he felt he lost his brother. So using his alchemical skill, Edward repeatedly punches Pride, overpowering him and essentially beating him to death.

Lastly, to restore Alphonse’s body without using a Philosopher’s Stone or relying on Hohenheim’s life, Edward sacrifices his own ability to perform alchemy. In a final act of selflessness, Edward uses his Gate of Truth to exchange himself for Alphonse. This results in Edward losing his ability to use alchemy but successfully brings Alphonse back to life with his original body.

The series concludes with Edward and Alphonse parting ways temporarily, as Edward plans to explore the world beyond their familiar territories. However, he promises Alphonse that he will return someday, and they bid each other farewell with the hope of a future reunion.

#28 – Does Roy Mustang become führer? 

Yes, he becomes a führer in the end. In fact, he also returns Ishvalans land so that he can bring peace and harmony. 

#29 – What are some similar anime shows to Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood?

If you enjoyed Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and are looking for similar anime shows with compelling stories, memorable characters, and a mix of action, adventure, and emotional depth, here are some of my recommendations:

1. Attack on Titan: Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures called Titans, this dark and intense series follows the journey of Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the fight against the Titans and uncover the truth about their world.

2. Hunter x Hunter (2011): This action-packed series follows the young Gon Freecss as he sets out to become a Hunter, a prestigious profession with a variety of pursuits. Alongside his friends, Gon faces challenges, discovers secrets, and encounters powerful adversaries.

3. My Hero Academia: In a world where almost everyone has superpowers known as “Quirks,” Izuku Midoriya dreams of becoming a hero despite being born without powers. He is granted a chance to attend a prestigious hero academy and trains to become the symbol of peace.

4. Soul Eater: Set in a world where humans and supernatural beings coexist, students at the Death Weapon Meister Academy train to become skilled warriors and wielders of weapons. The story follows the adventures of a group of students as they battle evil forces and face their own inner demons.

5. Noragami: This supernatural series revolves around Yato, a minor god who dreams of gaining widespread recognition. With the help of a human girl named Hiyori and a regalia (a spirit weapon) named Yukine, Yato takes on odd jobs and battles evil spirits while uncovering his own past.

6. Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic: Based on Arabian Nights, this series follows Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana as they navigate the world of magic, politics, and adventure. They seek treasures, challenge powerful enemies, and strive to create a better world.

These anime series share thematic elements such as epic journeys, character development, intricate world-building, and a blend of action, fantasy, and deeper storytelling that fans of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood may enjoy.

Is Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Worth Watching?

Yes, this is one of those series that you can’t afford to miss. There are moments when you might cry and then there are scenes where you might burst out laughing. Don’t skip even a single episode and I’m sure you won’t regret watching this series!  

Note: Before the first 10 episodes, this series might feel boring. But trust me, it will be better after this. In fact, I’ve written another article about this where I mentioned 10 reasons why Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood isn’t boring.