Fate/strange Fake - Episode 2 discussion

*Fate/strange Fake*, episode 2

**Reminder:** Please do not discuss plot points not yet seen or skipped in the show. Failing to follow the rules may result in a ban.

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**Streams**

* [Crunchyroll](http://crunchyroll.com/series/G4PH0WJQZ)

**Show information**

* [MyAnimeList](https://myanimelist.net/anime/55830/)
* [AniList](https://anilist.co/anime/166617)
* [AniDB](https://anidb.net/perl-bin/animedb.pl?show=anime&aid=18093)
* [Anime-Planet](https://www.anime-planet.com/anime/fate-strange-fake)
* [Kitsu](https://kitsu.app/anime/47682)
* [Official Website](https://fate-strange-fake.com/)
* **/r/fatestaynight**

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**All discussions**

Episode|Link
:-:|:-:
1|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1q32kvx)
2|[Link](https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1q97v2e)

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Commentaires

AnimeMod2026-01-10 17:06

# Source Material Corner

Reply to this comment for any source-related discussion, future spoilers (including future characters, events and general hype about future content), comparison of the anime adaptation to the original, or just general talk about the source material. **You are still required to tag all spoilers.** Discussions about the source outside of this comment tree will be removed, and replying with spoilers outside of the source corner will lead to bans.

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`[Spoiler source] >!Spoiler goes here!<`

# **All untagged spoilers and hints in this thread will receive immediate 8-day bans (minimum).**

Hexenmommies012026-01-10 17:06

Oh Dead Apostles, I know that because of the [REDACTED] anime from 2003.

AliceinTeyvatland2026-01-10 17:17

Bro, this meme is older than some people here lol

wjodendor2026-01-10 17:56

It's so ingrained in the Tsukihime community that I've seen people actually start questioning their own perception on the subreddit. Someone will ask questions about The Anime Which Does Not Exist and every comment is gaslighting them. People will link to the Wikipedia page and then others will be like "that page doesn't lead anywhere. It's just blank"

creamyhorror2026-01-10 18:18

Lol. I actually liked the Tsukihime anime back in the day even though I knew it didn't cover much of the VN story. Youngsters should give it a watch if they aren't going to play the VN.

RepulsiveIconography2026-01-10 17:29

[removed]

ZaphodBeebblebrox2026-01-10 18:24

Sorry, your comment has been removed.

- This belongs in the Source Material Corner at the top of this thread. In discussion threads for currently airing anime, discussions about source material, spin-offs, author comments and unadapted content must be posted there.

- Any comparison to the source material **no matter how minor** belongs there.

- Your comment was **not removed for spoilers;** it was removed for *discussion of the source material outside of the Source Material Corner*.

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exian122026-01-10 17:51

I know it's memed to death but my Tsukihime journey was FSN DEEN > Carnival Phantasm > Tsukihime anime. It was a trip to say the least.

Nome_de_utilizador2026-01-10 22:22

How's the asylum?

flashmozzg2026-01-10 23:09

Joker backstory

WhoiusBarrel2026-01-10 17:11

Gilgamesh and getting involved with another priest in the Holy Grail war, some things never change.

Seeing Assassin getting an existential crisis over her Master being a Dead Apostle is telling of how terrifying one is appearing live.

SaltwaterSmoothie2X2026-01-10 17:36

As if the clip of “Type Immunity” didn’t already say enough, either!

Jester was just standing there like Armstrong, and then picked up an oversized object single-handedly like DIO.

getterburner2026-01-10 17:54

Assassin is also just very very very religious so being contracted to a monster like this is basically a spit in the face to everything she supports.

oops_i_made_a_typi2026-01-10 18:37

yeah, she's way more interesting the other Assassins in the 4th and 5th grail wars imo, really loving her character (and also seeing her go all out with her abilities is pretty damn fun)

Yellow90Flash2026-01-10 18:44

[removed]

emeraldwolf342026-01-10 19:55

Plus seeing a servant in a fate series have their Muslim faith really explored is going to be really fun

BosuW2026-01-10 20:04

Plus she seems really hardcore about it like she really going on a whole one woman Jihad here

Rhazort2026-01-10 21:27

The entire grail way is Heretical in her view because they are claiming to fight over the Holy Grail (an artifact that is already heretical on her views) aside from being Heretical mages.

NevisYsbryd2026-01-11 00:25

It shows up pretty regularly for First Hassan, although it is very implicit with him, being how he is.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:47

In fact she's so religious it's basically driving her to oppose everything involved in why she was summoned into this.

Constellar-A2026-01-10 19:57

Like she said in episode 0, "our god does not hold a goblet." The Grail is a Christian concept, not an Islamic one, so she's totally against it.

n080dy1232026-01-10 20:31

That's an interesting angle actually, I've seen every Fate anime, played a couple games, and played Arc 1 and change of FGO, and despite so many characters from differing cutlures I don't think any of them have rejected the Christian elements baked into the entire system. Some reject the idea of a god entirely, but none of them really opposed the system based on faith. Even Jalter, who beefs with the entire concept of the Christian God on principle.

Constellar-A2026-01-10 21:31

Generally Servants don't care because the Grail can grant their wish, or in the case of FGO they're facing a crisis threatening all of human history so are putting their cultural grievances aside (though it still comes up sometimes, like when Lakshmibai the Rani of Jhansi met Sherlock Holmes and went silent when he said he was British).

When Assassin mentioned in this episode that the Grail had led her predecessors astray, she was referring to the Assassins from Zero and Heaven's Feel and how they had pursued it despite being leaders of the Hashashin, an Islamic religious order.

goffer542026-01-10 22:14

The holy grail isn't actually the cup of Christ. Most mages and servants know that.

towardselysium2026-01-10 19:18

If magic is heresy, try to describe what the magic of the undead atheist who openly mocks God must be.

Its like Jester was hand crafted to mock everything important to Assassin

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:54

>Gilgamesh and getting involved with another priest in the Holy Grail war, some things never change.

Gave us our first "mongrel" of the episode!

>Seeing Assassin getting an existential crisis over her Master being a Dead Apostle is telling of how terrifying one is appearing live.

I love how we have a Master/Servant duo that is a crazy vampire yandere(?) master with a Servant who wants to kill him and doesn't even want to be a Servant beyond destroying the very war she's meant to be participating in.

Prestigious_Spend_812026-01-10 23:51

FSN Caster also hated her original master, but a vampire is harder to deal with, and Assassin don't have the rule breaker.

platysaur2026-01-10 18:48

So hyped to see a Dead Apostle. Not just a vampire, these dudes are not to be fucked with. Just absolute monstrosity’s of the highest order, which is terrifying to consider seeing as they’re not even the most powerful form of vampire.

crazynoyes372026-01-10 17:13

[removed]

kaori_cicak9902026-01-10 17:17

Is it will be proper adaptation or just another 1 year 1 eps bullshit?

crazynoyes372026-01-10 17:19

Yes, it will be a weekly adaptation and we started with this week's episode.

kaori_cicak9902026-01-10 17:20

Thank god

za_shiki-warashi2026-01-10 17:19

It's weekly release.

Odd-Investigator65032026-01-10 17:50

Can’t wait to see what American servants they use, should be a cool/different setting

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:58

[removed]

alicitizen2026-01-10 18:19

Saber's name aint been revealed yet so careful with name usage.

NovaAhki2026-01-10 18:24

>It's Narita

For those who don't know, Narita is the author who wrote shows like Baccano, Durarara and Dead Mount Death Play. If you have seen those series, you will know this is going to be peak.

DustyBot232026-01-10 18:28

Wait that’s awesome I really enjoyed dead mount dead play.

Thone1372026-01-10 18:34

Saber's name is still a spoiler.

crazynoyes372026-01-10 18:36

Oh, you're right, oops, corrected.

za_shiki-warashi2026-01-10 17:18

Church Executor vs Dead Apostle hype next week.

RepulsiveIconography2026-01-10 17:27

It always reminds me Arcueid vs Ciel

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:53

Where's my Tsukihime anime, Ufotable!?

wjodendor2026-01-10 18:06

I'm not usually one for fan fics but I recently was reading Fate/ Path of the King and it has Shirou vs Ciel fighting over Satsuki and it was just awesome.

(Also Dojima from Persona 4 fights some mage assassins with uzis to protect Caster lol)

I'm getting too Nasu-pilled for my own good

WhoiusBarrel2026-01-10 18:10

Even down to the colour palettes with Jester's white outfit and Hansa's executor attire.

soulruu2026-01-10 19:47

Ha, I just whispered to myself at least its not \[Tsukihime spoilers\]>!A True Ancestor!<

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:53

Jester talked about how they needed someone with faith to take him on, so who better than a man of the cloth?

towardselysium2026-01-10 19:16

"With no heroic spirit, nor servant of faith you have no hopes of winning" - he says completely ignoring the priest in the room multiple times

BosuW2026-01-10 19:56

"Address me, Jester" **throws coffee**

fatalystic2026-01-11 03:12

In a different set of timelines this would be the Church's main job so if it's an issue of matchups, Jester's getting the script flipped on him now.

Cross_Toss2026-01-10 18:51

Battle Without Heroic Spirits is unironically one of my favorite arcs in any fate story, purely due to how fun both Hanza and Jester are

Kardinale2026-01-10 19:11

As someone who recently played Tsukihime remake I'm definitely a lot more excited by that

Middle_War_91172026-01-10 20:41

[removed]

[deleted]2026-01-10 23:12

[removed]

liscup342026-01-10 17:22

Extrovert boy Saber x Introvert girl Ayaka is a hilarious treat. Our old man on his throne must be giggling seeing our local otome protagonist and her knight in this story.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:02

I can already imagine Ayaka falling for him in-spite of herself and I'm totally here for it. Just her playing straight woman to his antics is already entertaining.

notanfan2026-01-10 17:24

can i start fate from this?

Stabaobs2026-01-10 17:26

There's an episode 0 prologue for Strange Fake, if you're starting with Strange Fake, you need to start with that before episode 1.

Edit: To answer the question, yes, but start with episode 0. There's a lot of references to other Type-Moon material, but it's fanservice. If you think you'll feel bad about not getting the Fate references, wait until you realize you'd also need to read several VNs and novels that don't have anime adaptations. Don't worry about it, it's just fanservice.

LunaSakurakouji2026-01-10 17:34

I'd advise against it. One of the largest appeals of Strange Fake is how it's essentially a melting pot of Type-Moon lore.

notanfan2026-01-10 17:35

NovaAhki2026-01-10 17:40

You can watch it just fine. It is still good as a standalone story. Though you may not be able to catch some easter eggs for the fans.

Failsnail642026-01-10 18:04

You can watch it just fine, it might just be a bit confusing. But I recommend watching Fate Zero first. It's a better introduction of the world and how a Grail War should work.

notatoaster002026-01-10 18:12

You can technically just start with Strange Fake but it's a super fan servicey show with numerous references to other Fate series. If you want to have a real backbone for Strange/Fake you should consider watching these.

**Fate Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works**
\- [Unlimited Blade Works Episode 0](https://myanimelist.net/anime/27821/Fate_stay_night__Unlimited_Blade_Works_Prologue)
\- [Unlimited Blade Works Season 1](https://myanimelist.net/anime/22297/Fate_stay_night__Unlimited_Blade_Works)
\- [Unlimited Blade Works Season 2](https://myanimelist.net/anime/28701/Fate_stay_night__Unlimited_Blade_Works_2nd_Season)

**Fate Stay Night Heavens Feel Movie Trilogy**
\- [First](https://myanimelist.net/anime/25537/Fate_stay_night_Movie__Heavens_Feel_-_I_Presage_Flower)
\- [Second](https://myanimelist.net/anime/33049/Fate_stay_night_Movie__Heavens_Feel_-_II_Lost_Butterfly)
\- [Third](https://myanimelist.net/anime/33050/Fate_stay_night_Movie__Heavens_Feel_-_III_Spring_Song)

**Fate Zero** this is actually a prequel to Fate/Stay Night, but is meant to be watched after as it's a prequel **sequel**.

\- [Season 1](https://myanimelist.net/anime/10087/Fate_Zero)
\- [Season 2](https://myanimelist.net/anime/11741/Fate_Zero_2nd_Season)

**Lord El Melloi II** Best watched after Fate Zero. You could watch Strange Fake after this. If you want even more knowledge consider watching FGO as well.

\- [Episode 0](https://myanimelist.net/anime/38936)
\- [Season 1](https://myanimelist.net/anime/38959)
\- [Movie: Magic Lantern](https://myanimelist.net/anime/49361)

**Fate Grand Order** An adaptation of the Fate/Grand Order gacha game. It's not the best but it generally serves its purpose. First Order is the prologue of the game, and then skips 5 arcs to Camelot so it's gonna be a bit of a jarring jump. Just keep that in mind and you'll be fine. Not totally 1:1 but if you've played the Persona games think of FGO as palaces on a world level.

\- [First Order](https://myanimelist.net/anime/34321)
\- [Camelot Movie 1](https://myanimelist.net/anime/38085)
\- [Camelot Movie 2](https://myanimelist.net/anime/38086)
\- [Babylonia Episode 0](https://myanimelist.net/anime/40206)
\- [Babylonia Season 1](https://myanimelist.net/anime/38084)
\- [Solomon Movie](https://myanimelist.net/anime/41497)
\-- [Moonlight Lostroom](https://myanimelist.net/anime/36915) (can honestly skip this ova. it is insanely confusing if you haven't played FGO.)

Also if you like visual novels you could [play that](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2396980/Fatestay_night_REMASTERED/) since it's the actual source material. Basically though you will appreciate Strange/Fake much more with as much knowledge you can muster, but it's not required.

RepulsiveIconography2026-01-10 17:26

[removed]

Lt_Ryou2026-01-10 17:41

Do they still exist in other regular Fate verses?

Wei8282026-01-10 17:50

They do but their influence is weaker due to certain factors and some of the strongest Dead Apostles are dead in Fate. There is also a cap on the power that the strongest Dead Apostles can gain which results in the other Dead Apostles being weaker as well because their subordinates gain extra power from them so if their lords are weaker so are they.

Constellar-A2026-01-10 17:50

They exist but they're weaker.

The difference between Fate and Tsukihime verses is Fate is "humanity fuck yeah" and Tsukihime is "humanity is small against all the horrors”. Vampires are weaker in Fate, and summoning Servants is impossible in Tsukihime. But Strange Fake is a mix of both (because it's so old that it started before Nasu decided to split them, so when he did the split he let Narita keep going by saying it's a mix world).

Vundal2026-01-10 17:52

they are not shown in the other fate anime, no. The main connection to the fate series seems to be The Church and The Clocktower, who work to curb the vampires and stomped out most of them.

KanchiHaruhara2026-01-10 17:54

Usually most nasu stuff exists in all the verses, just with a couple few things being different here and there. Even Fate/Stay Night and Fate/Zero are *technically* both different universes, but both have their own versions of each other's events happening. I THINK this is to give writers just a bit of extra leeway in case they wanna change something that could've messed with pre-established canon.

WhoiusBarrel2026-01-10 17:45

Still waiting for that Tsukihime Remake adaptation but Ufotable's got their hands full with the coming Mahoyo movie.

If anyone wants to experience Tsukihime the OG VNs are still a good place to start but the Switch/PS4 release have incredible production despite only covering Arc and Ciel's routes.

Stabaobs2026-01-10 17:53

The manga adaptation is also a very solid adaptation of the OG Arcueid Route that takes some bits from the Far Side.

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:57

>Still waiting for that Tsukihime Remake adaptation but Ufotable's got their hands full with the coming Mahoyo movie.

And Genshin...and finishing up the Demon Slayer films...

Maximilian_Sinigr2026-01-10 18:10

If I don't see Mahoyo movie with the FGO/Mahoyo collab (aka in 2,5 months), it's officially dead to me as an idea.

exian122026-01-10 17:56

And TM Elitist is still going to tell anime newbies that they HAVE TO at least read Tsukihime VN. IMO getting some general idea and context clues that the anime gave is enough. My Dead Apostle knowledge is Tsukihime anime, FGO bits that I don't remember now where I've read there, and some FGO subreddit discussions.

wjodendor2026-01-10 18:03

To make things a bit more complicated, the original Tsukihime from 2000 and Fate/stay night from 2004 were supposed to be in the same world but it was later reconned into separate worlds.

Jobe11052026-01-10 18:12

Okay that makes sense cause I remember the vampires of Fate universe being way weaker (with the exception of the ones I saw in FGO).

DustyBot232026-01-10 18:29

I’m reading mahoyo right now and I flinched when the clerk mentioned kitschy land and then the heroine seeing the red cloaked midget this episode. I was so confused, So that’s why lol!

alicitizen2026-01-10 17:33

Finally we are on go mode for this, it's been so long...

It's funny seeing "The gun that spawns FGO boss mobs" in action. Truly the most threatening move possible.

exian122026-01-10 17:58

"That's the most valuable Noble Phantasm anyone could have!"

-unemployed FGO ~~farmer~~Master

Lt_Ryou2026-01-10 18:16

My early account would hate to face the Giant Ghost, Soul Eater, and that eyeball mob simultaneously.

oops_i_made_a_typi2026-01-10 18:38

> Finally we are on go mode for this, it's been so long...

they cooked so fucking hard for this ep, insane animation for the fights ofc, but even in all the character acting scenes like Hamza talking with Gil, or little "camera" movements like with Saber in the interrogation room

One-Statement-30972026-01-10 17:36

Yohei Miyawaki's composition never disappoint.

AdWide46902026-01-10 17:37

It has been years, YEARS I say, since I began waiting for Executor Hansa Cervantes vs Dead Apostle Jester Karture to be animated.

One of my favorite fights from this series, and now I'll see it fully animated next week. HYPE!

Boshea2412026-01-10 17:37

I like the touch that even in the super happy outro, Assassin refuses to hold hands with Jester.

getterburner2026-01-10 17:55

You’ll also notice that Orlando and Faldeus aren’t holding Francesca’s hand, they’re grabbing her by her wrists like they’re restraining her lol.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:44

"Somebody has to keep this crazy girl contained!"

deleted-user2026-01-10 19:16

I wouldn't want to catch those crazy cooties either.

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:55

And because she's wearing a mask, they can't show her actually smiling like she's happy to be there lol.

Constellar-A2026-01-10 17:38

[removed]

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-10 17:40

- [It’s really funny that a Servant is being interrogated by the police.](https://i.imgur.com/xOEPB8k.png) [](#kotohoops)

- [Cutting straight from this](https://i.imgur.com/bR8jmbx.png) to [Gil betting in a casino](https://i.imgur.com/YSfZpjn.png) is some peak comedic timing. [](#azusalaugh)

- [Sasuga, Gilgamesh.](https://i.imgur.com/bgflDBF.png) [](#kukuku)

- ~~[Saber has the ability to turn invisible, huh.](https://i.imgur.com/yCj8AWI.png)~~ Edit: Ignore this, I just forgot that was a normal thing for Servants to be able to do. [](#harukathink)

- [Oh that’s scary.](https://i.imgur.com/SCKigKa.png) [](#scaredmio)

- [Hahahahaha, I like this Saber.](https://i.imgur.com/gVlHXoL.png) [](#trololol)

- [Eyyyyyyyyy](https://i.imgur.com/e7SDYMm.png) [](#girlslastdab)

- […who is he talking to?](https://i.imgur.com/nCRqrnD.png) [](#morethanonewaifu)

- [Hm…](https://i.imgur.com/ZOER0AK.png)

- [Oh geez.](https://i.imgur.com/Oc9Nyya.png) [](#seasonalshock)

- [Well… that explains what his deal is, but still…](https://i.imgur.com/OOE3Aee.png) [](#emiliaohdear)

- [Haaaaaaaaaaah.](https://i.imgur.com/JiAAszd.png) [](#serialkillerlaugh) This should be fun to see the fall-out over next time.

alicitizen2026-01-10 17:52

> Saber has the ability to turn invisible, huh.

All servants have had that capability, except Saber in Fate/SN routes, just because Shirou couldnt support it.

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-10 17:54

Ah, you're right, it's just been a while since I last watched the other Fate shows. Thanks.

alicitizen2026-01-10 17:57

It's fair it's like never relevant to moments.

Theadier2026-01-10 17:54

Saber does not have the ability to become invisible; all Servants, except for very specific cases like the classic Saber of S/N and Zero, are able to return to their spiritual form and therefore not be seen.

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-10 17:55

Yeah I just forgot, it's been a while since I watched the other Fate shows.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:04

Saber is like the worst person to interrogate because no matter what you do he'll just roll with it and smile. He's also not as naive as you think because he was only going along with it to help Ayaka.

I love how Gilgamesh is really enjoying himself this go-around. I mean, he always does, but having Enkidu involved just seems to have really gotten him going now.

exian122026-01-10 18:04

Gil is such a fucking cheat in the casino with his Clairvoyance lmao

Miteigi742026-01-10 18:25

He has Clairvoyance but pretty sure Golden Rule is the one at effect here

Constellar-A2026-01-10 18:35

Yeah, his Golden Rule skill means money just falls into his lap.

Cross_Toss2026-01-10 19:15

IIRC it's not even that - he has the skill "Golden Rule A" which means he'll always have effortless access to a massive amount of money.

He describes gambling as just reaching into his wallet.

Ocixo2026-01-10 18:44

> [Hahahahaha, I like this Saber.](https://imgur.com/gVlHXoL)

Ayaka won’t like his shenanigans, but I’m thoroughly entertained by this more theatrical version of Saber. His “magic trick” in front of the police was hilarious.

I’m certainly looking forward towards Saber’s future interactions with Ayaka.

LeloThePGG2026-01-10 17:41

"Not one thing will reach you, huh? My coffee did"

How can I not *scream* from happiness at this? My favourite scene, that I've been waiting years to be animated, finally here.

Ocixo2026-01-10 18:28

You know that Hansa is a skilled fighter considering that Jester didn’t seem to notice him *till* this cup of coffee.

LeloThePGG2026-01-10 18:43

Not even simply skilled: it was mentioned in episode 1 that he's an Executor.

Which means he is *specifically* skilled for facing monsters like Jester.

MMinjin2026-01-10 19:14

I thought he was just supervising the war and not participating?

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:47

And Hansa was probably just chilling and enjoying the show up to that point.

Nome_de_utilizador2026-01-10 22:26

He is a full blown executor.

For perspective, Kirei, the super-human priest who fought kiritsugu in zero and assasin and shirou in heavens feels, was also an executor.

That should give you an insight into Hansa's combat prowess.

regardedjuggmain2026-01-10 17:42

There's a fair bit of comedy in the writing, but the director doesn't really play along with it with the music.

Aileos2026-01-10 17:44

"I am not your master!"

"Alright, I’ll do whatever I want then"

Already liking the dynamic. This is going to be a funny duo.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:01

Ayaka: "I'm not going to be the female lead of this anime or any kind of Heroine!"

Saber: "But maybe you could be? I believe in you! I mean, you even have a naked scene in the OP!"

sagevallant2026-01-10 19:13

I read a bit of the manga version, probably not even enough to get through this season, but I fuckin' love this Saber.

n080dy1232026-01-10 19:29

He's both so upfront and on the level with people but so dangerously willful, I love him already.

"I'll cooperate with the police, sure! Happily! I'm gonna leave in a day though, and you can't stop me, so I'd happy to help you save face for it!"

Ikari_212026-01-10 21:52

He’s incredibly charming, I love his personality already lol just does what he wants and incredibly honest about it haha

suzushiro2026-01-10 23:14

I changed my laptop wallpaper to the HQ image of him standing on the truck cuffed because he is just such a likeable guy. He is basically the epitome of lawful good.

mythriz2026-01-10 21:28

Saber's personality reminds me a bit of Flat, but somewhat less chaotic I guess haha

Carnifex_992026-01-10 17:45

The carnival phantasm ass ending is goated, wish there were more subtle hints and details though like in the OP.

Keen for next week so I can get some Ciel glaze in a dope fight.

Cross_Toss2026-01-10 19:11

We do have some - Assassin doesn't hold Jester's hand, Jester is squizing Hanza's, and Faldeus and Orlando are holding Franchesca by the wrists

RehabCenterInc2026-01-10 17:45

Priest guy is such a vibe

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:59

Bruh just rolls in to check in on Masters/Servants and enjoying himself the entire time. Even gets to have fun fighting a vampire.

Ur--father2026-01-11 02:13

Would that count as having fun? Imagine going on a chill business trip for a change of pace then your day job just shows up.

GoingSeafoam2026-01-10 17:46

It feels like it’s been forever since the last Fate anime, I’m glad it’s finally out of production hell. And the ED being everyone just holding hands in a series like this is hilarious

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:56

>And the ED being everyone just holding hands in a series like this is hilarious

And the nuns at the end with a sign that says "this ED is not indicative of the actual content of the show."

I thought I was watching a Carnival Phantasm ED for a second there.

But it was nice to see Ayaka smile.

Prince-Dizzytoon2026-01-10 17:49

Jester is so cool man, I hope he gets his ass whooped

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:57

Honestly if Assassin and Jester don't take each other out in a mutual kill with unhinged sexual tension, I'll be disappointed.

Bakadestroyerr2026-01-10 18:09

Bruh, I laughed too hard at this and almost spilled my coffee

Ill_Mud75842026-01-10 20:02

Be sure to spill it on Jester.

RepulsiveIconography2026-01-10 18:21

As someone who watched it at the advance screening, I can say this: the Jester Hansa fight in the next Fate Strange Fake episode is genuinely one of the best action scenes in the franchise, so get hyped.
The quality is so high it honestly brings to mind the [Jogo Sukuna](https://youtu.be/NvcYfsSTzG4) fight from Jujutsu Kaisen.

Smol_WoL2026-01-10 17:50

So, is the whole season coming out or is it like the first episode and we have to wait another season for episode 3? Don't wanna watch only to have to wait months for the next episode to come out

getterburner2026-01-10 17:56

It’s finally just gonna be weekly lol. 13 episodes total no counting the OVA

BenjoKazooie642026-01-10 17:51

The chief’s gun that fires FGO NPCs gave me PTSD to the years of grinding those nodes…

getterburner2026-01-10 17:59

[removed]

Ur--father2026-01-10 18:29

[removed]

JonnySpark2026-01-10 18:39

FGO vets: just gonna 3 turn and be done with this shit

FGO newbies: WHA-

CathNoctifer2026-01-10 18:59

The fact that these mobs didn't drop anything makes it the cherry on the cake.

RetryPerson2026-01-10 17:51

No wonder jester is smitten with assassin. she's really beautiful. But yeah good for her trying to kill her master since he's a monster of some sort, kinda reminds me of lancer in fate UBW.

Ocixo2026-01-10 18:49

The class of Assassin unfortunately tends to attract the wrong type of people. She’s dealt a rough hand with this master.

I don’t think that Assassin is necessarily a bad person, though. She was at the very least able to recognise evil.

AbdDjamil_272026-01-10 19:09

Assassin isn't a bad person she's just heavily devoted to the assassin's creed ideology to the point she will rather kill her master and die than wining the grail ang getting her wish

Deck_of_Cards_042026-01-10 21:26

She’s a zealot

The Hashashin were very zealous Shia Muslims who according to some stories, would drug initiates with hashish and give them visions of “paradise” to strengthen their faith.

It’s why she hates the grail and mages, “our god has no cup” is referring to the fact that Islam has no tale of the Holy Grail, that’s a Christian only thing, and like the church, magecraft is viewed as heresy

Frontier2462026-01-10 17:52

Ayaka and Saber are currently in police custody while Orlando assesses their threat level and identities. Saber is, as always, all charm and smiles while Ayaka looks like she's pretty much completely spent (and considering the day she's had, I don't blame her), but she's also the biggest wild card in this whole situation.

We finally get the proper OP! Featuring all the Masters/Servants in their daily lives, the Servants doing battle (with Saber of course fighting Gilgamesh), the seedy darkness beneath this false Holy Grail War, and Ayaka and Saber hoofing it on the road!

Caster can't hit the slots, but Gilgamesh definitely will! The city of sin meets the kind of babylon, and he's making the most of his time. Not only just pleasuring himself but also kind of mentoring Tine and bringing her out of her shell so she can be a master truly worthy of him, and so he can truly fulfill her goals.

(Also Tine bumped into a woman with an absurdly short skirt...)

Good cop/bad cop doesn't work on Saber, he's just too inexplicably happy and polite. Dude is willing to pay to rebuild the opera house as a boon towards a mutually beneficial relationship! He's only even playing along with this farce for Ayaka's sake. Who can hate that winning smile?

Ayaka doesn't seem to be doing well in jail, though having to take an elevator to her cell probably didn't help. She's not happy to see Saber visiting her in her cell either because she still wants nothing to do with him, but Saber just can't leave her alone...even if she's not his Master and he's not her Servant, they're linked together by the Command Seals she now wields and that means Saber will be loyal and dedicated to her whether she wants him to or not. And if that means pulling a jailbreak together...let's do it!

Hansa is making the rounds among the Masters/Servants to fulfill his overseer duty (and we get to see his battle nuns in casual clothes!), though Orlando doesn't take well to his presence. Like, "surround him with his officers to intimidate/kill him" level of not taking well (though Orlando definitely has some attractive lady cops in his employ). I wonder how things would've gone had they not been interrupted by a call from Caster...and a visit from Assassin.

Assassin swooping in! Orlando may have an elite squad of officers wielding their own Noble Phantasms, because that's just the way Caster rolls as the author of this team, but Assassin has a Noble Phantasm that seemingly lets her use whatever ability she needs, meaning she can match them with full force. Zabaniya!

Assassin is a Servant with no Master whose only goal is to tear this Holy Grail War down from within, for the honor of her people, though it's not inaccurate to say she has no Master...at least someone she's getting her magic from. A VAMPIRE named Jester Karture who is as deadly as he is obsessive, and now he's obsessed with Assassin whether she wants anything to do with him or not. Imagine using your first Command Seal as a Master to send your Servant away from trying to kill you and so you can take over slaughtering some police. It was nice to see Assassin's face though.

Is Orlando screwed? I mean, Jester stole Tom's arm, takes down pretty much all the officers, and apparently they don't stand a chance with no Servant or someone of absolute faith to battle him...good thing they've got Hansa.

The ED is really cheerful and upbeat with everyone smiling and holding hands! And some redhead with a horse! Also I love how they have Hansa's nuns at the end with a "fake" sign to put into perspective how this is not accurate to the show itself.

Yellow90Flash2026-01-10 18:52

>Tom's

dude put some respect to his name, that was John

Cross_Toss2026-01-10 20:56

My man did not move from "List of minor characters" to his own page on the wiki just to be disrespected like that

Yellow90Flash2026-01-10 20:56

yeah thats John Fate himself

Odd-Display-72272026-01-10 17:54

Sawano don’t make anime openings again. It was ass.

LeonKevlar2026-01-10 17:57

[Reeves saying that Heroic Spirits shouldn't gamble](https://i.imgur.com/mqCHhSb.jpeg) when there's a Holy Grail War going on, followed by [the hard cut to Gil betting it all on red](https://i.imgur.com/eI1IND7.jpeg) was actually pretty damn funny. Of course, the first thing Gil does is to check what people are doing in this era for entertainment.

[I do love how chill this Gil though.](https://i.imgur.com/5L76uRu.jpeg) He's definitely giving me the same vibes as CasGil. Maybe he's more relaxed here [because his master is a child](https://i.imgur.com/AZJoVkf.jpeg) and because Enkidu is also participating in this HGW.

[We got our first "Zasshu" from Gil!](https://i.imgur.com/Ivx21QI.jpeg) How appropriate that the first one he calls mongrel [is someone from the Overseer sent by the Church.](https://i.imgur.com/EfzZSU8.jpeg) I'm definitely excited to see [what Hansa and his nuns can do.](https://i.imgur.com/TnAGg1B.jpeg)

[Saber turning into his spirit form to escape his handcuffs](https://i.imgur.com/qxJgdio.jpeg) was a pretty funny trick. I kinda wish he stayed invisible for a bit and let the cops panic, but [he's too nice to bully them like that.](https://i.imgur.com/3CVe0cc.jpeg) I love the wink he gives them at the end.

[There's no escaping your fate, Ayaka.](https://i.imgur.com/wF9471F.jpeg) You already have the Command Spells. Even if you reject Saber as your Servant, [the two of you are already linked](https://i.imgur.com/ojdn7sp.jpeg), and other Masters will still target you since you're now a participant of the HGW.

[The absolute balls on Reeve to threaten someone from the Church.](https://i.imgur.com/5jThuiD.jpeg) He's either that confident in his skills and his subordinates, or he's just plain stupid. To be fair, Assassin seems to struggle against them, so Reeve can definitely walk the walk.

[Assassin spamming Zabaniya](https://i.imgur.com/Tn3Fq5x.jpeg) and [Reeve summoning Phantasmal Beasts](https://i.imgur.com/UUhSmPM.jpeg) were pretty cool to see. I didn't think they'd get interrupted [by a Master who's a Dead Apostle.](https://i.imgur.com/KonY37S.jpeg) How unfortunate for Assassin [that her Master is someone she hates](https://i.imgur.com/bXLLHqc.jpeg).

[Jester is actually pretty terrifying, tho.](https://i.imgur.com/lKBV8AX.jpeg) I feel like he could easily turn all of Reeve's men into just piles of flesh. So it's amazing [to see Hansa interrupt him by throwing coffee on his back.](https://i.imgur.com/WA3Rfj6.jpeg) I can't wait to see what this fight is gonna look like next week!

I am so happy that we finally get to see this as a full series! No more one episode per year, FSF is finally happening! [That ED is so goddamn adorabnle, tho!](https://i.imgur.com/WiiJD4K.jpeg) That ED feels like it would fit in Carnival Phantasm. I think my favourite part of the ED is [Assassin refusing to hold hands with Jester.](https://i.imgur.com/KKZ1FOB.jpeg) xD

Ocixo2026-01-10 18:37

I love Gilgamesh so much as a character. He’s so cool! If there’s one servant who can gamble in a casino without a care in the world, it’s him.

Despite his cocky attitude, it does seem like he’s looking out for his master. Tiné must find out what *she* truly desires.

n080dy1232026-01-10 19:56

It's also super interesting the way context and the time in his life can lead to such differing depictions of him in various scenarios. Gilgamesh as an Archer in Zero/FSN presents a distinct take on the character, compared to Caster Gil from FGO, or Ruler Gil from Samurai Remnant, or even Kid Gil from Prisma Illya and Hollow Ataraxia. All clearly the same character but varied temperaments and emphasizing certain aspects of his character. And even his Archer incarnation here and I believe the one in Extra (haven't played it) the way he conducts himself is reflective of both the situation and his Master.

ParasaurolophusZ2026-01-11 03:58

In Zero, he's got a Master who wants to use him as a tool. He is the King of Heroes and does not appreciate anyone thinking he's a tool.

In FSN era, he's had 10 years to see the worst of humanity while also being reminded of everything he's lost. He's jaded and bitter after starting out in a bad mood.

Here in SF, he has a Master who is giving him proper respect and is eager to learn from him. Remember how Gil in Zero actually gave Waver his respect for knowing his place (according to Gil) with regards to Rider? Plus, Enkidu is here in SF and that's going to make Gil's mood automatically better.

Frontier2462026-01-10 18:46

Gil gets to do the Holy Grail War with his bestie! This is the best timeline for him.

I'm sorry Ayaka, you're stuck as our de-facto Heroine and stuck with Saber. But I honestly think the latter will grow on her.

sagevallant2026-01-10 19:19

Gil is a good boy who just gets up to very bad things when he has to entertain himself.

Ikari_212026-01-10 21:55

The entire jester fight I was praying he didn’t kill any of the cute girls especially that twintail girl LOL

getterburner2026-01-10 18:00

[removed]

Shimmering-Sky2026-01-10 18:07

Sorry, your comment has been removed.

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Mallecho_miching2026-01-10 18:01

When he said "dead apostle", I was Leo pointing at the screen

I want the next episode already. The hype has been boiling in me for years and it continues even now

PerseusRad2026-01-10 18:07

I accidentally spoiled myself on a couple of things, but so far I don't think it's hurt my viewing experience. I'm not sure I'll ever be able to completely get over that weird shadow on all the noses, but it's fine. I know FSF's thing is that it sorta breaks the rules regarding Dead Apostles and Servants, interested to learn more about the mechanics of exactly why Jester can't be hurt. Since most of the Tsukihime or Tsukihime-adjacent stuff never seems to make that a big thing.

[deleted]2026-01-10 18:29

[removed]

[deleted]2026-01-10 18:07

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[deleted]2026-01-10 18:12

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ZaphodBeebblebrox2026-01-10 18:18

KazuharaIlfan2026-01-10 18:08

Ok this is gonna be one of the standouts of this season too huh. For now, I prefer this kind of artstyle and storyboard but Im sure JJK also have few in the chamber for this season too.

chrome42026-01-10 18:12

Yeah I prefer the animation style used here over the new(?) one used by JJK which looks good but at the same time bothers me

Vinpupx2026-01-10 18:08

Heh, the ending is cute.

Rathilal2026-01-10 18:09

Well things finally get rolling.

I don't have much knowledge of Ayaka from the other works she's in, but I have to say the combination of a "red shadow" appearing to her for a moment there and her instinct to call Saber's Magecraft "Magic" is a combination of hints that any who have read Mahou Tsukai no Yoru might recognize.

Bakadestroyerr2026-01-10 18:12

Gotta say the comment section is so interesting for a casual Fate watcher like me. I don't understand half of it, but I am definitely enjoying the ride

n080dy1232026-01-10 20:06

This series draws on a LOT of different corners of the Nasuverse, even Tsukihime which Fate almost never touches, so there's a lot here for franchise fans to geek out about. Luckily it's written in such a way that we can geek out about those things without new or casual fans feeling lost because don't have that knowledge.

Mami-kouga2026-01-10 18:12

1. Another year, another episode of me getting angry at every word out of Gilgamesh's mouth as if he's not one of my *gag* faves...if you're going to ask her eyes to sparkle take her to an amusement park instead of being self indulgent you bum!

2. Saber and Ayaka are cute, they're so cute~~ From the moment I saw him shamelessly decide that he'll be here protector regardless of her wishes I was taken, swept up my feet, her resistance is even better, be showered with affection you silly girl! (Also they're putting visual shout outs too now, that's so cool!)

3. Was Hansa always this bishie, smug and sassy....

4. Oh hey, I recognise those shotgun summons!

5. Second super clean amputation in an anime I've seen this week!

6. You know even if she didn't hate him on principal for being a mage in a ritual she considers blasphemy and an undead freak of nature she considers heresy, she'd probably hate him for just being a freak in general. Like this dude making ahegeao faces is what I'm getting my magical energy from? That just feels dirty on principle

7. Next week- time to punch a vamp in the face, church style~~

Normal-Link54152026-01-10 18:12

[removed]

tannegimaru2026-01-10 22:02

And it didn't drop anything upon death as well, I'd say it's faithful to the game lmao

LunchAtNightIsDinner2026-01-10 18:12

Too many things happening....which is too exciting

bakato2026-01-10 18:13

I wonder if the ED is gonna change to include the rest of the cast.

n080dy1232026-01-10 20:51

I'm curious about this too, if only cuz it's got the redhead who hasn't shown up yet and her horse, but the black-haired kid with the gun who also hasn't appeared yet shows up way more prominently in the OP but isn't in the ED.

vp7872026-01-10 18:15

The ED is so goofy with all these characters whom should be trying to kill eachother holding hands happily.

\[Fate Strange Fake Novel\] >!Though I'm surprised to see a certain horse and handler there so early!<

kawaii_song2026-01-10 18:25

When I first watched the OP at the Alamo, I was taken aback at how casual it was, but it has gray action scenes too. I've been replaying the leaks version on loop for a month now and hyped to see the HD version again.

Caster is hilarious catching Orlando off guard yet again.

Assassin face reveal!

The Gilgamesh and Tine dynamic is similar to Gilgamesh and Kotomine in Zero, as is Gilgamesh and Enkidu in their Epic. I guess Gil can't help but want to fulfill every hollow person he meets.

nerdshark2026-01-10 18:25

Oh my fucking god it was worth the wait.

gooodluckboi2026-01-10 18:31

AMAZING

DustyBot232026-01-10 18:33

That shot of francesca pouring creamer in her tea, holy crackers!

deleted-user2026-01-10 18:49

Poor Ayaka got the theater kid of Sabers.

towardselysium2026-01-10 19:26

An introvert's hell makes good entertainment

ericthefred2026-01-11 02:14

It's also a plot necessity to force an introvert into agency. He going to squeeze a functional, proactive mage out her despite herself, just by being this kind of Saber.

Unapologetic_Lunatic2026-01-10 18:50

"You seem to be laboring under a terrible misunderstanding, but no matter. For what sort of King would I be if I let you poor mongrels suffer in such ignorance? The money was in your casino, yes. But that does not make it any less *my* money." - Golden Rule Gil, basically

ZelrWM2026-01-10 18:57

I can't get enough of Ayaka's scream at Saber's appearence in her cell room. Love them so much. Missed the "jailbreak" line from Saber tho im sure we will get more of his goofyness soon and the rest of the episode was really good.

The Jester-Assassin Command Spell scene was beautiful and the nonSaber-Ayaka highlight

suzushiro2026-01-10 19:12

Is it just me or is the sound design of this show really good? Especially those moments where assassin was unleashing her noble phantasm.

Also I really appreciate the show putting in effort designing and animating even minor characters. Felt like every single of one the police chief's underlings is a main character and he himself probably got less animation budget than all of them combined.

BosuW2026-01-10 20:41

Absolutely this is one to watch with headphones or a home theatre, shit almost feels like IMAX

Frontier2462026-01-11 02:08

Even the random lady Tine bumped into in the casino stood out.

SnabDedraterEdave2026-01-10 19:24

>Chief Orlando: It's preposterous for a Servant to be spending time in a casino during a Grail war!

Cue Gilgamesh playing roulette in Vegas. LMAO Its so totally on brand for him to be taking time off to enjoy Vegas.

I had to binge through Episodes 0 and 1 as Aniplex, Dengeki and A1 Pictures took their sweet time finally releasing the series proper after so many years, that I was afraid I would forget most of the details.

As anime-only with some knowledge of Nasuverse lore (including the latest from FGO NA), this series does live up to its name as a love story for Fate fans with all the Easter Eggs littered all over the place.

We have an Einzbern (who seems to have manipulated poor Ayaka and her memories into doing her bidding), we have the Church, we even have Dead Apostles (Vampires).

When Assassin's Master Jester somehow survived her Noble Phantasm, I had a feeling he could be a DA.

And while Jester's gloating at how he's completely curbstomping Orlando's men, he seems to have forgotten the presence of the carefree Hansa, who's an Executor of the Holy Church, the natural enemy of the DAs.

bananeeek2026-01-10 19:56

This episode felt like it was only 5 minutes long.

I thought Assassin would get killed right off the bat, but it looks like now we'll get a Dead Apostle vs Priest duel? This Fate is... Strange.

Also, does Assassin have any cooldown on that Zabaniya? She was spamming it like crazy.

Horaji122026-01-10 20:28

It should be only limited by amount of Magical energy she receive from Jester.

cmszd2026-01-10 19:57

so... much... background animation

holy fuck this episode was incredible. shun enokido and takahito sakazume have been doing an incredible job as directors for this series, not just in the action scenes, but in the downtime as well. the fight in this episode was really something else though. the way the action was constructed left me in awe. the fx shapes in [this scene](https://www.sakugabooru.com/post/show/297770) really stood out to me

also that ed is so good lmfao

alpacamegafan2026-01-10 21:27

[My personal favorite.](https://www.sakugabooru.com/post/show/297769)

oops_i_made_a_typi2026-01-10 21:45

its just insane, no wonder why they took this long, and i'm so glad they did. feels like every other scene they go above and beyond with the animation

ShinItsuwari2026-01-11 01:10

The camera work is insane. That scene in the police station where Hansa notices they cleared the building. They had no need to animate him looking this animated while the camera is also moving. But they did.

cmszd2026-01-11 05:30

on the topic of animators animating unnecessary things, its so wild that they really animated that one cut where the camera slightly rotates behind saber in the interrogation room. they really couldve just given the effect of a rotation with clever parallax usage, but no, they actually animated saber's rotation, with minimal melting too. shit like that really goes to show how much the staff cares for the show

n080dy1232026-01-10 21:04

Saber talking to seemingly no-one is interesting. That flash of Robin Hood/Loxley in Episode 1 when he countered Assassin's Zabaniya struck me as a "borrowed power" sort of moment, so I'm wondering if he doesn't have Robin Hood as some sort of lesser attached spirit, like a much smaller scale version of Zero Rider's Ionioi Hetairoi, or Zero Assassin's duplicates.

Speaking of that scene, isn't it typically very rare for Sabers to be able to use Magecraft?

allhailthemoon2026-01-10 21:17

>Also isn't it typically very rare for Sabers to be able to use Magecraft?

It is rare, but why is important. While Saber container obviously doesn't grant skills connected to magecraft, it wouldn't limit one from using them. Cu as a saber, would absolutely be able to use runes. Artoria would be able to use magecraft, but she just didn't bother to learn.

The actual why is that not that many Sabers we have actually are magecraft practitioners or had a magecraft teacher like Artoria/Cu.