how many fnaf books are there in order, and why do they keep multiplying like animatronics in the dark?

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. Alongside the games, the FNaF universe has expanded into a rich collection of novels, novellas, and spin-off stories. But just how many FNaF books are there, and in what order should they be read? This article dives into the labyrinth of FNaF literature, exploring its evolution, themes, and the reasons behind its ever-growing library.

The Core Book Series: A Chronological Guide

The FNaF book series can be divided into two main categories: the original novel trilogy and the Fazbear Frights series. Here’s a breakdown of the books in order:

1. The Original Novel Trilogy

• Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Silver Eyes (2015)
  The first novel introduces Charlie, the daughter of one of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza’s founders, and her friends as they return to their hometown to uncover the dark secrets of the abandoned pizzeria. This book sets the tone for the series, blending horror with mystery.
• Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Twisted Ones (2017)
  The sequel delves deeper into the twisted animatronics and the psychological toll they take on Charlie. It expands on the lore, introducing new threats and deepening the connection between the human characters and the animatronics.
• Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Fourth Closet (2018)
  The final book in the trilogy ties up loose ends while introducing shocking revelations about the characters and the FNaF universe. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions and horror, leaving fans with more questions than answers.

2. The Fazbear Frights Series

The Fazbear Frights series is a collection of short stories that explore different aspects of the FNaF universe. Each book contains three standalone tales, often with gruesome twists and moral dilemmas. Here’s the order:

• Into the Pit (2019)
• Fetch (2020)
• 1:35 AM (2020)
• Step Closer (2020)
• Bunny Call (2020)
• Blackbird (2020)
• The Cliffs (2021)
• Gumdrop Angel (2021)
• The Puppet Carver (2021)
• Friendly Face (2021)
• Prankster (2021)
• Felix the Shark (2021)

3. Tales from the Pizzaplex

A newer addition to the FNaF literary universe, this series continues the tradition of short stories but focuses on the modern-day Pizzaplex setting introduced in Five Nights at Freddy’s: Security Breach. The books include:

• Lally’s Game (2022)
• HAPPS (2022)
• Somniphobia (2022)
• Submechanophobia (2023)
• The Bobbiedots (2023)

Why Are There So Many FNaF Books?

The sheer number of FNaF books might seem overwhelming, but there’s a method to the madness. Here are some reasons behind the franchise’s literary expansion:

1. Expanding the Lore
   The FNaF games are known for their cryptic storytelling, often leaving fans to piece together the narrative through hidden clues. The books provide a more straightforward way to explore the lore, offering deeper insights into the characters, locations, and events.

2. Exploring Alternate Timelines
   Many of the books, especially the Fazbear Frights series, exist in alternate timelines or parallel universes. This allows the authors to experiment with new ideas without being constrained by the main game continuity.

3. Catering to Different Audiences
   The FNaF franchise has a diverse fanbase, ranging from younger readers to hardcore horror enthusiasts. The variety of books ensures there’s something for everyone, whether it’s a novel-length story or a quick, chilling read.

4. Merchandising and Brand Growth
   Let’s face it: FNaF is a cultural phenomenon. The books are a natural extension of the brand, offering fans new ways to engage with the universe while generating revenue for the franchise.

Themes and Motifs in FNaF Literature

The FNaF books are more than just horror stories; they explore complex themes that resonate with readers:

• The Nature of Fear
  From jump scares to psychological terror, the books delve into what makes us afraid and how fear can shape our actions.

• The Consequences of Greed
  Many stories highlight the dangers of corporate greed and unethical experimentation, often tying back to the sinister origins of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza.

• The Power of Friendship and Family
  Despite the horror, the books often emphasize the importance of human connections, showing how characters rely on each other to survive.

• The Blurring of Reality and Illusion
  The line between what’s real and what’s imagined is frequently blurred, creating an unsettling atmosphere that keeps readers on edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are the FNaF books canon to the games?
A: While the original novel trilogy exists in a separate timeline, the Fazbear Frights and Tales from the Pizzaplex series contain stories that are considered canon or semi-canon to the games.

Q: Do I need to read the books to understand the games?
A: Not necessarily. The games and books complement each other, but they can be enjoyed independently. However, reading the books can provide additional context and depth to the FNaF universe.

Q: Which book should I start with?
A: If you’re new to FNaF literature, start with The Silver Eyes. For shorter, more varied stories, dive into the Fazbear Frights series.

Q: Will there be more FNaF books in the future?
A: Given the franchise’s popularity, it’s highly likely that more books will be released, continuing to expand the FNaF universe.

In conclusion, the FNaF book series is a sprawling, multifaceted collection that offers something for every fan. Whether you’re a lore enthusiast or just looking for a good scare, these books are a must-read. And who knows? Maybe the next book will finally answer the question of how many animatronics are lurking in the shadows.