One of those series that isn't particularly exceptional at anything, but all the parts are solid enough to give it a very good base to work from. The art is decent, not great, same with the characters, villains and world building which feels like an industrial era Germany.

I suppose the strongest point about FMA is the bond between the brothers and their tragic backstory, it fits well into the narrative to form a basis of why they're doing what they do, rather than them just being a couple of stubborn headed kids who want to be a pirate or something. I disliked Winry and her awkward romance with Ed and their comedic moments left a lot to be desired. I give the show props for having a planned out beginning, middle and ending rather than inventing new villains and conflicts.

Overall it's a good manga but I slightly prefer the Brotherhood adaptation it's one of the few series that I think works better as an anime.