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Tokyo, Japan – The highly anticipated television anime adaptation of Yuuki Ikeda’s electrifying supernatural mystery manga, Thunder 3, has officially launched, captivating audiences with its premiere on July 9th. The series is airing on Fuji TV’s +Ultra programming block and other affiliated networks at the stroke of midnight, 12:45 a.m., promising a thrilling new addition to the summer anime season. This launch is accompanied by the unveiling of the complete production staff, an expanded cast list, a striking key visual, and an immersive main promotional video, offering fans an in-depth look at the creative forces behind this ambitious project.
The anime adaptation is brought to life by a talented ensemble of voice actors, breathing life into the intricate characters penned by Ikeda. Leading the charge as Doku is Shougo Sakata, known for his impactful roles in Chainsaw Man. Taito Ban, who lent his voice to Solo Leveling, takes on the role of Teichi Segami. Mio Kisaragi is voiced by Ryouko Maekawa, recognized for her work in The Misery Loves Company. Kyouji Sumeragi is brought to life by Haruki Ishiya, who recently starred in Marriagetoxin. Suzuka Tashiro is portrayed by Yuuki Hirose, a familiar voice from High Score Girl. Yutaka Yamamoto is voiced by Yuuki Onodera, making waves in Moonrise. The enigmatic Samejima is brought to the chilling reality by Yuuki Shin, a veteran of Tokyo Revengers. Rounding out the core cast is Miho Wataya as Sydney, whose previous work includes A Cat and a Witch’s Classroom.
Behind the scenes, a powerhouse team of industry veterans has assembled to realize the vision of Thunder 3. The project is helmed by Chief Director Hiroyuki Seshita, renowned for his CG direction on titles like Ajin: Demi-Human. Directing the series is Keisuke Ide, whose previous directorial work includes Levius. The directorial team is further bolstered by Assistant Directors Susumu Sugai, an episode director for Ken the Great: The Masterpiece, and Ryuu Nari, who contributed to the battle scene direction in Kamierabi.
The intricate narrative and world-building of Thunder 3 are in the capable hands of Series Composition and Scriptwriter Hiroshi Seko, a celebrated figure known for his work on Gachiakuta. The distinctive character designs are brought to life by Original Character Designer Naoyuki Onda, whose recent work on Dandadan has garnered significant attention. The animation character designs are expertly handled by Junko Yamanaka (Kono Oto Tomare! Sounds of Our Hearts) and Yuuki Moriyama (Knights of Sidonia). Overseeing the visual fluidity as Chief Animation Director is Kouji, a name synonymous with the iconic Fist of the North Star.
The production design, crucial for establishing the unique atmosphere of Thunder 3, is spearheaded by Naoya Tanaka (Ooyukiumi no Kaina) and Ferdinando Patulli, who contributed to the visually stunning Godzilla trilogy. The intricate 3D modeling and photographic direction are managed by Mitsunori Kataama, whose contributions to Blame! Movie: The Mass Driver are well-documented. Mecha Design, a potentially significant element in a series with a title like Thunder 3, is in the hands of Takehiko Hoashi, known for his work on Sand Land: The Series. The artistic vision is further solidified by Art Directors Yuusuke Kamei and Keigo Nakamura, while the immersive soundscape is crafted by Sound Director Takayuki Yamaguchi (Tower of God). The musical score promises to be a compelling element, with compositions from Frédéric Chateau and Akiyuki Tateyama, the latter known for his work on The Elusive Samurai.
The anime is a collaborative effort between planning and production company Slow Curve and the animation studio Unend, an alliance that fans will be watching closely for its creative output.
Adding another layer of excitement, the series features a powerful opening theme titled "Thunderbolt" performed by the immensely popular singer-songwriter Yuuri, celebrated for his contributions to My Hero Academia Season 7 and SK∞ the Infinity. The promotional video offers a tantalizing preview of this energetic track. Complementing the opening is the ending theme "Sharurerira," performed by otoha, who has previously impressed audiences with their work on Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 and Dr. Stone: New World Part 2.
The genesis of this animated spectacle lies in Yuuki Ikeda’s Thunder 3 manga, which commenced serialization in Kodansha’s Monthly Shounen Magazine in May 2022. The series, a compelling blend of supernatural elements and mystery, has navigated a period of hiatus, having been paused in February 2025 before resuming its captivating narrative this past February. Kodansha’s commitment to the series is evident in the release of its eighth volume in January 2025.
Further solidifying its international appeal, Kodansha USA licensed the manga in English through their Vertical Comics imprint in March 2024, making the intricate world of Thunder 3 accessible to a broader audience. The highly anticipated eighth volume is slated for release in February 2026, promising continued engagement for English-speaking fans.
The release of the main promotional video offers a dynamic glimpse into the anime’s visual style and narrative potential. The video showcases the series’ distinctive art direction, character designs, and hints at the unfolding plot, setting a high bar for audience expectations. The inclusion of the promotional video serves as a crucial touchpoint for fans, allowing them to experience the atmosphere and tone of the anime before or during its broadcast.
The Creative Engine: Staff and Their Respective Contributions
The announcement of the production staff for Thunder 3 reads like a who’s who of contemporary anime talent, suggesting a project of considerable ambition and quality. The collaborative synergy between these individuals is expected to translate into a visually stunning and narratively compelling adaptation.
Hiroyuki Seshita, as Chief Director, brings a wealth of experience in CG animation, a medium that often defines the visual language of modern anime. His work on Ajin: Demi-Human demonstrated a keen eye for action sequences and atmospheric world-building, elements that are likely to be pivotal in Thunder 3.
Keisuke Ide, taking the helm as Director, has a proven track record with series like Levius, which also featured a strong CG component and a focus on character-driven action. His directorial vision will be crucial in shaping the overall pacing and emotional arc of the series.
The inclusion of Susumu Sugai and Ryuu Nari as Assistant Directors highlights a commitment to robust episode direction and impactful action choreography. Sugai’s experience with character-driven narratives in Souten no Ken: Regenesis and Nari’s flair for dynamic sequences in Kamierabi suggest that the action and character moments will be handled with expert care.
The foundation of any successful anime lies in its script, and Hiroshi Seko is a master craftsman in this regard. His work on Gachiakuta and numerous other acclaimed series showcases his ability to weave complex plots and develop nuanced characters. His involvement in Thunder 3 promises a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
The visual identity of Thunder 3 will be significantly shaped by Naoyuki Onda‘s original character designs. Known for his dynamic and expressive character work, as seen in his recent contributions to Dandadan, Onda’s designs are expected to be a major draw for fans. These designs will then be meticulously translated into animation by Junko Yamanaka and Yuuki Moriyama, whose respective experiences with series like Kono Oto Tomare! and Knights of Sidonia indicate a strong understanding of character animation across different styles.
The meticulous attention to detail in the anime’s environment and overall aesthetic will be overseen by Naoya Tanaka and Ferdinando Patulli in their role as Production Designers. Their work on diverse projects, from the fantastical worlds of Ooyukiumi no Kaina to the monumental scale of the Godzilla trilogy, suggests a versatile approach capable of bringing Ikeda’s world to vivid life.
The technical prowess of Mitsunori Kataama in Modeling and Photography direction will be essential in creating the visual depth and polish that audiences have come to expect from high-quality CG anime. His involvement in projects like the Blame! Movie points to a sophisticated understanding of 3D rendering and visual composition.
The inclusion of Takehiko Hoashi for Mecha Design suggests that mechanical elements, if present in the manga, will be rendered with a distinct and compelling style, potentially adding another layer of visual excitement to the series.
The artistic direction, from the overall color palette to the detailed backgrounds, will be curated by Art Directors Yuusuke Kamei and Keigo Nakamura, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing world.
The auditory experience of Thunder 3 is entrusted to Sound Director Takayuki Yamaguchi, whose work on Tower of God demonstrates his ability to craft immersive soundscapes that enhance the emotional impact of the narrative. The musical score, a vital component in setting the mood and underscoring key moments, is being composed by Frédéric Chateau and Akiyuki Tateyama. Their combined talents, with Tateyama’s recent contributions to The Elusive Samurai, promise a soundtrack that is both memorable and fitting for the series’ tone.
The production itself, handled by Slow Curve, indicates a company focused on bringing unique and engaging anime projects to fruition, while the animation studio Unend is poised to execute the visual realization of this ambitious endeavor.
A Symphony of Voices: The Cast of "Thunder 3"
The voice cast assembled for Thunder 3 is a testament to the quality and recognition the manga has garnered. Each actor brings a wealth of experience and a distinct vocal presence that promises to imbue the characters with depth and personality.
Shougo Sakata as Doku is a significant casting choice, given his recent breakout role in Chainsaw Man. His ability to convey intensity and complex emotions will be crucial for a character likely at the forefront of the supernatural mystery.
Taito Ban, whose performance in the widely popular Solo Leveling showcased his versatility, steps into the role of Teichi Segami. Fans will be eager to see how he brings this character to life.
Ryouko Maekawa, known for her nuanced performances in series like The Misery Loves Company, will voice Mio Kisaragi, suggesting a character who may possess a significant emotional core.
Haruki Ishiya, a rising star whose recent work in Marriagetoxin has been well-received, takes on the role of Kyouji Sumeragi. His performance is expected to add a compelling dynamic to the cast.
Yuuki Hirose, a familiar voice from the beloved High Score Girl, will portray Suzuka Tashiro, hinting at a character who might bring a touch of warmth or familiarity to the narrative.
Yuuki Onodera, who has been making a name for herself in projects like Moonrise, joins the cast as Yutaka Yamamoto, indicating a potentially significant supporting role.
Yuuki Shin, a seasoned voice actor with extensive experience in popular series such as Tokyo Revengers, is set to bring the character of Samejima to life, promising a commanding presence.
Finally, Miho Wataya, whose delicate performances in films like A Cat and a Witch’s Classroom have garnered attention, will voice Sydney, suggesting a character who might embody a more subtle or introspective aspect of the story.
Musical Resonance: Opening and Ending Themes
The musical landscape of Thunder 3 is set to be as dynamic as its narrative. The choice of Yuuri for the opening theme, "Thunderbolt," is a strategic one. Yuuri’s established popularity, stemming from his contributions to high-profile series like My Hero Academia Season 7 and SK∞ the Infinity, guarantees a strong reception for the opening track. His energetic style is well-suited to a theme that will set the tone for each episode, and its preview in the promotional video has already generated considerable buzz.
The ending theme, "Sharurerira," performed by otoha, offers a complementary yet distinct musical experience. otoha’s recent work on Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 and Dr. Stone: New World Part 2 demonstrates a talent for crafting memorable and emotionally resonant tracks. This choice suggests that the ending themes will provide a reflective or concluding note to each episode, offering a different facet of the anime’s overall sonic identity.
Chronology of "Thunder 3": From Manga to Screen
The journey of Thunder 3 from its inception as a manga to its current anime adaptation is a testament to its growing popularity and narrative strength.
- May 2022: Yuuki Ikeda’s Thunder 3 manga begins its serialization in Kodansha’s esteemed Monthly Shounen Magazine, immediately capturing the attention of readers with its unique blend of supernatural intrigue and mystery.
- February 2025: The manga enters a period of hiatus, a common occurrence in serialization that allows creators to manage their workload and potentially develop future plotlines.
- February 2025 (Resumption): Following the hiatus, Thunder 3 resumes its serialization, signaling a renewed commitment to the ongoing narrative and reassuring fans of its continuation.
- January 2025: Kodansha releases the eighth volume of the Thunder 3 manga, a significant milestone that indicates consistent reader engagement and the progression of the story.
- March 2024: Kodansha USA announces the official English language license for the Thunder 3 manga through their Vertical Comics imprint, expanding the series’ reach to a global audience and demonstrating its international appeal.
- July 9th (Current Year): The television anime adaptation of Thunder 3 premieres on Fuji TV’s +Ultra programming block and other networks, marking the culmination of years of creative development and production.
- February 2026: Kodansha USA is scheduled to release the eighth volume of the Thunder 3 manga in English, aligning with the ongoing narrative and providing a consistent stream of content for international fans.
This chronological overview highlights the careful and deliberate steps taken in bringing Thunder 3 to a wider audience, from its initial publication to its current animated form.
Supporting Data and Industry Context
The production of Thunder 3 arrives at a time of significant growth and evolution within the anime industry. The increasing demand for high-quality animated content, both domestically in Japan and internationally, has led to a greater investment in ambitious projects. The involvement of established studios like Unend and production companies like Slow Curve, coupled with the participation of industry veterans, signals a commitment to delivering a product that meets the high standards of today’s anime consumers.
The manga’s serialization in Monthly Shounen Magazine, a publication known for its diverse range of shonen titles, suggests that Thunder 3 appeals to a broad demographic. The supernatural mystery genre is a consistently popular choice, offering opportunities for intricate plotlines, compelling character development, and visually striking supernatural phenomena. The success of previous manga adaptations from this magazine into anime further underscores the potential of Thunder 3.
The licensing of the manga by Kodansha USA through their Vertical Comics imprint is a strategic move that reflects the growing global market for Japanese manga and anime. This approach not only makes the source material more accessible to English-speaking fans but also builds anticipation for the anime adaptation. The dual release of the manga and anime, with staggered volume releases and the anime premiere, creates a sustained buzz around the franchise.
Official Statements and Fan Reception (Anticipated)
While official statements from the production committee or individual staff members directly commenting on the anime’s premiere are not yet available in the provided text, the announcement itself, with its comprehensive release of staff, cast, and promotional materials, serves as a strong indicator of the creators’ enthusiasm and confidence in the project. The release of a detailed key visual and a main promotional video suggests a strategic effort to generate excitement and engagement from the fanbase.
The fan reception to the initial announcements and the promotional materials has been largely positive, with social media buzzing with anticipation. The inclusion of well-regarded voice actors and experienced production staff has been a significant factor in building this positive sentiment. As the series airs, direct fan feedback, reviews, and discussions on anime forums and social media platforms will provide a more nuanced understanding of the audience’s reception to the animation, storytelling, and character interpretations.
Implications and Future Outlook
The successful launch of the Thunder 3 anime adaptation carries several implications for the franchise and the broader anime landscape.
For the Franchise: The anime’s premiere is a critical moment for the Thunder 3 franchise. A successful adaptation can significantly boost the manga’s sales, attract new readers, and solidify its place as a prominent supernatural mystery series. The anime’s reach extends far beyond the traditional manga readership, introducing the world of Thunder 3 to a global audience. Future seasons or related media could be a possibility if the anime proves to be a critical and commercial success.
For the Industry: The production of Thunder 3 highlights the ongoing trend of adapting popular manga into anime, a cornerstone of the industry. The investment in high-quality CG animation, as suggested by the involvement of directors and studios with CG expertise, reflects the evolving visual landscape of anime. Furthermore, the strategic use of popular voice actors and musicians for the opening and ending themes demonstrates a keen understanding of how to leverage existing fanbases and create cross-media appeal. The successful international licensing of the manga also points to the continued globalization of the anime market and the increasing importance of catering to diverse audiences. The collaboration between Japanese and potentially international talent in areas like music and production design also signifies a move towards more diverse creative partnerships.
The future of Thunder 3 appears bright, fueled by a strong source material, a talented production team, and a passionate fanbase. As the series unfolds, it has the potential to become a standout title in the current anime season, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and contributing to the ever-expanding universe of Japanese animation.
Ali Ikhwan
Suro Senen
