As most of you know, this version, the older version, largely deviates from the manga after a certain point, as the manga could not keep up with the anime.
FMA:B, on the other hand, follows the manga to its core.
Having said that, many would assume that the 2003 FMA would be worse than FMA:B, as it deviates from the manga. This is not the case.
FMA and FMA:B are both enjoyable.
I have viewed FMA twice (the first time when it first came out in 2003; I was merely 10 years old that time, but I did find it amazing)
Story- 10/10
FMA is a much darker anime with respect to FMA:B, while FMA:B is more hilarious.
Not even once did I get bored while watching FMA. Even the filler episodes are highly enjoyable, and adds more to the story. Before FMA:B, this anime was considered a masterpiece, and that was rightfully so. It stands out as an independent piece of class, doing full justice to the alternative story and setting.
Art- 9/10
FMA came out in 2003-04. That was more than 10 years back. Comparing it to the other anime of that era, FMA was leaps and bounds better than most. Even if you are new to the series, and will be watching it soon or in the future, be not afraid; its animation will continue to amaze, unless there are major changes in the animation technology.
Sound- 10/10
For some reason, the only thing that comes to my mind while mentioning the sound effects / quality, is that one scene involving Nina Tucker and the Elric brothers. I will not be giving out spoilers, but that scene, combined with the sound effects, voice effects etc., still sends chills down my spine.
Character- 10/10
I feel the character development for this is better than FMA:B. Characters were covered more in details, each character serving a major purpose in the build up of the story. You'll begin to sympathise with most of the characters, even some of the villains. You'll laugh with them, get angry, annoyed, and even cry at some of the events (them onion cutting ninjas).
Enjoyment- 10/10
I enjoyed it thoroughly, so much that I cannot exactly pinpoint the reasons for the same. The entire anime overall was a piece of art.
Overall- 10/10
This anime, along with its alternative FMA:B, are both amazing. It takes you through a priceless journey (2 journeys in this case), and it was a memorable one.
Recommended for watching? Hell yes. This anime will never cease to amaze you. Watch both this and FMA:B to fully appreciate the FMA universe. Each has its own unique story, and are equally enjoyable. FMA (2003) is a masterpiece in its own right.
