Fate/Zero is undoubtedly one of the finest anime of this age. This timeless anime echoes the deepest desires, fears, and hopes of our human nature.
---Story & Characters---
If the premise of this story does not intrigue you, I'm not quite sure what would. While its contemporaries presents naive adolescents with seemingly inexplicable powers, this harshly realistic story offers matured adults, each with his own innocent or sinful motives, engaging in thoughtful combat in a death game. Beginning in a tranquil, yet faintly mythical, tone, each episode (sans Rin's filler) furthers the storyline and presents to viewers the mentalities of each combatant in exquisite detail.
The characters, in my opinion, solidly cements this anime's intrigue and interest. Presenting a diverse cast, each with his own background, interests in the War, and skill set, we come to empathize with Waver's desire to prove the strength of the younger magic families and sympathize with Kariya in his attempt to save his (presumably) love's daughter from horrific abuse.
However, the Servants themselves are greatly interesting (why else would they have their own tales?). To see the engaging battles taking place outside of fanfiction crossovers is tremendously enjoyable, and the twists in the legends amusing yet strangely appropriate.
---Art & Sound---
Simply superb. Other reviewers, more competent than I, have already discussed the technicalities of skilfully using CG in anime, the fitting accompanying soundtrack, and others in great detail. It suffices to say that it deserved to win best-of-2011 animation awards across the Web.
Fate/Zero has been an emotional ride from the very start, with its introduction of some very serious characters and background. This anime is truly one of the best of this year.
