How many FNAF books are there in total, and what do they reveal about the lore?

How many FNAF books are there in total, and what do they reveal about the lore?

The Five Nights at Freddy’s (FNAF) franchise, created by Scott Cawthon, has grown far beyond its origins as a survival horror video game series. Over the years, it has expanded into a rich multimedia universe, including novels, graphic novels, and short story collections. As of October 2023, there are over 20 FNAF books in total, each contributing to the intricate and often mysterious lore of the series. These books are divided into several series, including the original novel trilogy, the Fazbear Frights series, and the Tales from the Pizzaplex series. But how do these books fit into the larger FNAF narrative, and what secrets do they unveil? Let’s dive into the details.

The Original Novel Trilogy: A Different Perspective on the FNAF Universe

The original FNAF novel trilogy consists of three books: Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Silver Eyes (2015), Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Twisted Ones (2017), and Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Fourth Closet (2018). These books are set in an alternate timeline from the games, offering a fresh perspective on the characters and events.

  • The Silver Eyes: This book introduces Charlie, the daughter of one of the founders of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, and her friends as they uncover the dark secrets of the animatronics. It explores themes of loss, grief, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
  • The Twisted Ones: The second book delves deeper into the horrors of the animatronics, introducing the concept of “twisted” versions of the characters. It also explores the psychological toll of the events on Charlie and her friends.
  • The Fourth Closet: The final book in the trilogy ties up loose ends, revealing shocking truths about Charlie’s identity and the fate of the animatronics. It also introduces new characters and concepts that expand the lore.

While these books are not considered canon to the games, they provide valuable insights into the themes and ideas that underpin the FNAF universe.

The Fazbear Frights Series: A Collection of Horrifying Tales

The Fazbear Frights series is a collection of 12 books, each containing three short stories. These stories are set in the same universe as the games and often explore darker, more gruesome aspects of the FNAF lore. Some of the most notable stories include:

  • Into the Pit: This story introduces the concept of time travel and a mysterious entity known as “Spring Bonnie.”
  • Fetch: A tale about a high-tech animatronic dog that becomes dangerously obsessed with its owner.
  • The Man in Room 1280: This story provides a chilling backstory for one of the series’ most enigmatic characters, William Afton.

The Fazbear Frights series is known for its graphic content and psychological horror, making it a favorite among fans who enjoy the darker side of the FNAF universe.

The Tales from the Pizzaplex Series: A New Chapter in the FNAF Saga

The Tales from the Pizzaplex series is the latest addition to the FNAF book lineup. As of October 2023, there are 8 books in this series, with more expected to be released. These books are set in the modern-day FNAF universe, focusing on the Pizzaplex, a massive entertainment complex featuring advanced animatronics. Some of the standout stories include:

  • Lally’s Game: A story about a young girl who becomes trapped in a nightmarish game orchestrated by the animatronics.
  • HAPPS: This tale explores the consequences of artificial intelligence and the dangers of relying too heavily on technology.
  • Bobbiedots: A story about a group of friends who discover a hidden room in the Pizzaplex, only to unleash a terrifying force.

The Tales from the Pizzaplex series is notable for its focus on modern technology and its exploration of the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI and robotics.

The Graphic Novels: Bringing the Stories to Life

In addition to the prose novels, there are also graphic novel adaptations of the original trilogy and select stories from the Fazbear Frights series. These graphic novels feature stunning artwork that brings the characters and settings to life, making them a must-read for fans who enjoy visual storytelling.

The Role of the Books in the FNAF Lore

The FNAF books play a crucial role in expanding the lore of the franchise. While the games provide the foundation, the books delve into the backstories of key characters, explore alternate timelines, and introduce new concepts that enrich the overall narrative. They also serve as a bridge between the games and other media, such as the upcoming FNAF movie.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Are the FNAF books canon to the games?

    • The original novel trilogy is set in an alternate timeline and is not considered canon. However, the Fazbear Frights and Tales from the Pizzaplex series are considered canon to the games.

  2. Which FNAF book should I read first?

    • If you’re new to the FNAF books, start with The Silver Eyes from the original trilogy. For a more modern take, begin with the first book in the Tales from the Pizzaplex series.

  3. Do the books contain spoilers for the games?

    • While the books expand on the lore, they are designed to complement the games rather than spoil them. However, some stories may contain references to events or characters from the games.

  4. Will there be more FNAF books in the future?

    • Given the popularity of the franchise, it’s likely that more books will be released in the future, continuing to explore the ever-expanding FNAF universe.