FATEPrototype: The Origins of the Fate Series
Introduction
The Fate series has become one of the most popular and influential anime franchises in recent years. Known for its intricate plotlines, intense battles, and compelling characters, Fate has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. However, before the success of Fate/stay night and its various adaptations, there was Fate/Prototype, a prototype version of the story that served as the foundation for what would become the iconic series we know today. In this article, we will explore the origins of Fate and delve into the world of Fate/Prototype.
The Creation of Fate/Prototype
Fate/Prototype was first conceived by Kinoko Nasu, the creator of the Fate series, as a novel and game concept. It was intended to be an adult visual novel similar to Tsukihime, another popular work by Nasu. Fate/Prototype was initially developed in 2000 as a collaboration project with artist Takashi Takeuchi and would later become the basis for the widely acclaimed Fate/stay night.
The Plot and Characters
Fate/Prototype takes place in a parallel universe to Fate/stay night and follows a similar premise. The story revolves around seven Masters who are chosen to participate in the Holy Grail War, a battle royale where the winner is granted a wish. Each Master is paired with a Heroic Spirit, a legendary figure from history or mythology, and together they must fight against other Masters and their Heroic Spirits to claim the Holy Grail.
Unlike Fate/stay night, however, Fate/Prototype features different characters and a slightly altered storyline. The protagonist is Ayaka Sajyou, a young woman who becomes the Master of the Saber-class servant, Saber. Ayaka is a mage from the prestigious Sajyou family and takes part in the Holy Grail War to protect the honor and legacy of her family. Alongside Ayaka is her loyal servant, Saber, a noble knight who is famed for his chivalry and unparalleled swordsmanship.
The Legacy of Fate/Prototype
While Fate/Prototype never received a full-fledged adaptation like Fate/stay night, it left a lasting impact on the development of the Fate series. Many concepts and ideas introduced in Fate/Prototype were carried over to Fate/stay night, including the idea of Heroic Spirits and the Holy Grail War itself. The success of Fate/stay night would not have been possible without the foundation laid by Fate/Prototype.
In recent years, there have been attempts to adapt Fate/Prototype into other mediums. A drama CD was released in 2011, featuring voice actors and actresses to bring the characters to life. Additionally, there have been animated shorts and manga adaptations that explore the world of Fate/Prototype in more detail. While these adaptations remain relatively obscure compared to the main Fate series, they allow fans to experience the origins of Fate in a different format.
Conclusion
Fate/Prototype serves as a crucial piece of the Fate series' history, laying the groundwork for the iconic franchise we know today. While it may not have received the same level of recognition as Fate/stay night, it remains a fascinating glimpse into the origins of the Holy Grail War and the beloved characters that make up the Fate universe. Whether you are a fan of the Fate series or simply interested in the development of popular anime, Fate/Prototype is a must-explore piece of the puzzle.
