Which Fate Route is Canon?
The Fate franchise has been a beloved and popular series among fans, with its intricate storyline and complex characters. One of the most debated topics among fans is which route is canon. In this article, we will delve into the world of Fate and explore the different routes, providing an answer to the question: Which Fate route is canon?
What is Canon?
Before we dive into the different routes, it’s essential to understand what canon means. In the context of Fate, canon refers to the official storyline or events that are recognized as part of the original narrative. In other words, canon is the original story created by the creators of Fate, and it serves as the foundation for all other adaptations and spin-offs.
The Original Fate/Stay Night Visual Novel
The original Fate/Stay Night visual novel, released in 2004, is the foundation of the entire franchise. The game consists of three main routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven’s Feel. Each route has its unique storyline, characters, and ending.
Fate Route
The Fate route is the first route that players encounter in the original visual novel. It follows the story of Shirou Emiya, a young man who becomes involved in the Holy Grail War, a tournament where seven "Masters" summon powerful "Servants" to fight for the Holy Grail. The Fate route focuses on Shirou’s interactions with Saber, his Servant, and their battles against other Masters and Servants.
Unlimited Blade Works Route
The Unlimited Blade Works route is the second route in the original visual novel. It takes place after the events of the Fate route and follows Shirou and Rin Tohsaka, another Master, as they work together to uncover the truth behind the Holy Grail War. The Unlimited Blade Works route introduces new characters and plot twists, making it a significant departure from the Fate route.
Heaven’s Feel Route
The Heaven’s Feel route is the third and final route in the original visual novel. It is a alternate storyline that explores the relationship between Shirou and Sakura Matou, a classmate of Shirou’s. The Heaven’s Feel route has a darker tone and explores themes of tragedy and sacrifice.
Which Route is Canon?
So, which route is canon? The answer is simple: all three routes are canon. The original visual novel was designed to have multiple endings and storylines, and each route is a valid part of the Fate narrative. The creators of Fate have consistently stated that all three routes are part of the official storyline, and fans have come to accept this as the official canon.
Fate/Zero and the Canon Conundrum
Fate/Zero, a prequel to the original Fate/Stay Night, has added another layer of complexity to the canon debate. Fate/Zero explores the events leading up to the Holy Grail War, and its storyline intersects with the original Fate/Stay Night. However, Fate/Zero has its own unique storyline and characters, which some fans argue are not part of the original canon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question Which Fate route is canon? is simple: all three routes are canon. The original visual novel was designed to have multiple endings and storylines, and each route is a valid part of the Fate narrative. The creators of Fate have consistently stated that all three routes are part of the official storyline, and fans have come to accept this as the official canon.
Table: Fate Routes
| Route | Storyline | Characters | Ending |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fate | Shirou and Saber’s battle against other Masters and Servants | Shirou, Saber, Rin | Happy ending |
| Unlimited Blade Works | Shirou and Rin’s investigation into the Holy Grail War | Shirou, Rin, Archer | Complex ending |
| Heaven’s Feel | Shirou and Sakura’s tragic storyline | Shirou, Sakura, Rin | Sad ending |
Bullets: Key Points
• The original Fate/Stay Night visual novel has three main routes: Fate, Unlimited Blade Works, and Heaven’s Feel.
• Each route has its unique storyline, characters, and ending.
• All three routes are canon and part of the official Fate narrative.
• Fate/Zero is a prequel that explores the events leading up to the Holy Grail War, but its storyline intersects with the original Fate/Stay Night.
• The creators of Fate have consistently stated that all three routes are part of the official storyline.