After years of anticipation, One Punch Man has finally returned with its long-awaited Season 3 premiere — but the reception has been far from unanimous. Episode 1 debuted to mixed reviews from fans and critics, currently holding a 6.7 rating on IMDb, marking a divisive start for one of anime’s most iconic modern franchises.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
It’s been nearly four years since Season 2 wrapped up, leaving fans eager to see Saitama, Genos, and the Hero Association return to action. The new season picks up immediately after the Monster Association arc begins to escalate, promising high-stakes battles and deeper character development. However, despite the hype, many viewers have voiced concerns over the animation quality and tonal shift, which they say don’t quite live up to the series’ explosive first season.
While One Punch Man’s humor and satirical take on superhero tropes remain intact, some fans argue that Episode 1 lacked the visual punch and tight pacing that made earlier episodes so iconic. The slower setup and heavier dialogue-driven approach have divided audiences — with some praising the more mature tone, while others feel it strays too far from the show’s roots.
Animation Controversy Returns
A major point of contention stems from the change in animation studio. The first season, handled by Madhouse, is still regarded as one of the most visually stunning anime productions of the 2010s. Season 2, produced by J.C. Staff, faced widespread backlash for inconsistent animation and stiff action sequences. Season 3’s production has since shifted again, this time to a new studio aiming to rebuild fan confidence — but reactions suggest the results are mixed at best.
Some sequences in Episode 1 were praised for dynamic camera angles and improved lighting, while others felt flat or lacking in impact. On social media, fans expressed disappointment that the long production gap didn’t translate into a significant visual upgrade. “It feels like the soul of the show’s action is gone,” one Reddit user commented, while another defended it, saying, “It’s just the calm before the storm — the fights will deliver later.”
A Divided Fandom
Despite its flaws, One Punch Man still commands one of the most loyal fanbases in anime. Many praised the episode for setting up new storylines, particularly Garou’s continued rise as an antihero and the looming threat of the Monster Association. Saitama’s comedic timing remains a highlight, and several fans noted that the episode’s quieter tone helps build anticipation for the chaos to come.
However, others feel the long hiatus and lack of visual spectacle may have hurt the show’s momentum. Some reviewers on IMDb described the premiere as “underwhelming but promising,” suggesting that while Episode 1 wasn’t the explosive comeback many hoped for, it laid the groundwork for stronger episodes ahead.
The Road Ahead
With One Punch Man Season 3 officially underway, the real test will be how the series maintains its balance between philosophical storytelling and over-the-top action — the very formula that made its debut a global hit. The premiere’s lukewarm reception may sting, but there’s still room for redemption as future episodes dive deeper into the Monster Association arc and Saitama’s evolving role in a world that fears and worships him in equal measure.
For now, fans remain cautiously optimistic. While Episode 1’s IMDb score of 6.7 reflects a shaky start, One Punch Man’s enduring popularity suggests that even with its flaws, the series still packs enough intrigue, humor, and heroism to keep viewers coming back — hoping that the next punch lands a little harder.