One Punch Man Season 3, which premiered on Netflix and Hulu in October 2025, has encountered an unexpectedly negative reception, marking its lowest scores to date on platforms like IMDb. While previous installments of the popular anime series maintained high ratings, typically averaging between 7 and 9, Season 3's scores have consistently declined, with its highest IMDb score currently standing at a mere 4. The sixth episode of the season, titled "Motley Heroes," received an exceptionally low score of 1.4, drawing comparisons to other critically panned series such as Velma, which holds an overall IMDb score of 2.7.

Fan criticism has been widespread and severe, contributing to a significantly low Rotten Tomatoes audience score of just 6%. Reviewers and viewers alike have voiced strong objections, citing issues such as poor animation quality, the noticeable absence of the protagonist Saitama, and a general feeling that the series fails to live up to the manga's standards. Many have described the viewing experience as akin to watching a "terrible slide show," a stark contrast to the high-action scenes and visual prowess for which the anime is typically known.

One Punch Man itself is celebrated for its unique premise, following Saitama, a superhero capable of defeating any enemy with a single punch. The manga, which continues to be ongoing, has achieved remarkable success, selling over 34 million copies by August 2025. The series is known for its blend of intense action and comedic elements, often exploring philosophical questions about heroism, particularly through Saitama's character, who acts as a hero purely as a hobby, devoid of concern for status or recognition.

For fans who may be disappointed with the current season, several other acclaimed anime series offer similar themes and high-quality storytelling. Solo Leveling, for example, features Sung Jinwoo, a protagonist who develops overwhelming strength and often defeats foes with a single blow, echoing Saitama's power. My Hero Academia also presents a structured hero system, complete with bureaucratic elements and diverse characters with unique powers, while balancing slice-of-life moments with stunning, high-action animation. Both provide action-packed narratives and compelling hero journeys.

Despite the criticisms, One Punch Man Season 3 remains available for streaming on Netflix and Hulu for those who wish to watch the series unfold as the Heroes Association confronts the Monsters Association in City Z.