How Many Fullmetal Alchemist Manga Are There?

Fullmetal Alchemist is a renowned manga series that has captivated audiences worldwide with its compelling storyline, rich characters, and intricate world-building. Created by Hiromu Arakawa, the manga has achieved significant acclaim and spawned numerous adaptations, including anime series, films, and games. If you're wondering how many Fullmetal Alchemist mangas are there, this article provides a comprehensive breakdown.

The Fullmetal Alchemist Manga Series

The primary series consists of 27 volumes, published between 2001 and 2010. The story follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy in a quest to restore their bodies after a failed transmutation attempt to revive their deceased mother.

Overview of the Volumes

Each volume of Fullmetal Alchemist contains a unique segment of the story, weaving together themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. Below is a list detailing each volume:

• Volume 1: A New Beginning
• Volume 2: The First Homunculus
• Volume 3: Mother
• Volume 4: An Alchemist's Anguish
• Volume 5: The Shape of This Country
• Volume 6: The Old Philosopher's Stone
• Volume 7: Hidden Truths
• Volume 8: The Fifth Laboratory
• Volume 9: The Two Alchemists
• Volume 10: The God of Death
• Volume 11: One Is All, All Is One
• Volume 12: One Step Closer
• Volume 13: The Burying Sword
• Volume 14: Those Who Challenge the Sun
• Volume 15: The Promised Day
• Volume 16: Footsteps of a Comrade-in-Arms
• Volume 17: The Distant Ring
• Volume 18: The Arrogant Son
• Volume 19: Death of the Undying
• Volume 20: Father
• Volume 21: Advance
• Volume 22: Backs in the Distance
• Volume 23: The Final Battle
• Volume 24: Inside the Locket
• Volume 25: The Return of the Fuhrer
• Volume 26: The Book of the Dead
• Volume 27: The Last Sacrifice

Publication Details

Fullmetal Alchemist was serialized in Square Enix's Monthly Shōnen Gangan magazine from July 2001 until June 2010. The series was well-received, leading to its compilation into 27 tankōbon volumes. Each volume contains several chapters that delve deeper into the overarching plot and character development.

Adaptations and Legacy

Anime Adaptations

Fullmetal Alchemist has been adapted into two anime series. The first adaptation aired in 2003 and diverged significantly from the manga's plot. The second adaptation, titled Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, premiered in 2009 and closely followed the manga's storyline. The success of these adaptations contributed to the series' global popularity.

Film and Other Adaptations

Besides the anime, the Fullmetal Alchemist franchise expanded into films, including Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos, and live-action adaptations. These variations have introduced new audiences to the original manga while maintaining the core themes of the series.

Conclusion

In summary, there are 27 volumes in the Fullmetal Alchemist manga series, each contributing to a rich, complex narrative that explores themes of morality, the price of ambition, and the essence of humanity. The series has left a lasting impact on the world of manga and anime, making it a timeless classic cherished by fans around the globe.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, understanding how many Fullmetal Alchemist mangas exist helps appreciate the depth and craft of Hiromu Arakawa's storytelling. Dive into the volumes and experience the journey of the Elric brothers and their quest for redemption.