Yuki Ikeda’s popular manga series, Thunder 3, is set to resume serialization in Kodansha’s Monthly Shonen Magazine starting in February. The announcement was made in the January issue of the magazine, much to the anticipation of fans following its hiatus in March of the previous year. The return marks a significant moment for the series, which has garnered considerable attention since its debut.
Thunder 3‘s Return to Monthly Shonen Magazine
The science fantasy manga, which has been serialized in Monthly Shonen Magazine since May 2022, went on an unannounced hiatus in March. The upcoming February issue will see the continuation of its storyline, which was reported to be entering its climax as of January 2025. This resumption will allow the narrative, praised for its unique blend of art styles and engaging plot, to continue its trajectory toward its conclusion.
Details of the Hiatus and Resumption
While the exact reasons for the hiatus were not immediately specified, such breaks are not uncommon in the manga industry, often allowing creators to manage their demanding schedules or prepare for critical story arcs. The confirmation of its return in February, announced through the January issue of Monthly Shonen Magazine, indicates that the series is ready to proceed with its highly anticipated climax.
Exploring the World of Thunder 3
Thunder 3 introduces readers to a compelling narrative centered around three ordinary middle school students—Pyontaro Tezuka, Hiroshi Ochanomizu, and Tsubame Azuma—dubbed the “Small Three.” Their lives take an extraordinary turn after they discover a mysterious disc that opens a gateway to a parallel world known as the Multiverse.
The Multiverse and Its Dangers
When Pyontaro’s younger sister, Futaba, and their pet dog are accidentally pulled into this hyper-realistic Multiverse, the trio follows, only to find a world overrun by alien inhabitants. Unlike their own “cartoonish” world, the Multiverse depicts a grim reality where humanity is on the brink of disaster, with governments subdued by extraterrestrial forces. A surprising twist unfolds as the “Small Three” discover that their seemingly ordinary bodies grant them invincibility and superpowers within this alternate dimension, making them formidable anti-alien combatants. This realization propels them into a mission to rescue Futaba and confront the alien threats alongside human resistance fighters.
Distinctive Art Style and Thematic Depth
A standout feature of Thunder 3 is Yuki Ikeda’s skillful use of contrasting art styles. The manga intentionally depicts the protagonist’s initial world in a flat, cartoonish manner, shifting dramatically to a realistic and highly detailed style upon entering the Multiverse. This artistic juxtaposition not only enhances the sense of entering a truly different dimension but also highlights the thematic clashes between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Critics have praised Ikeda’s detailed artwork, with some drawing comparisons to works like Hiroya Oku’s Gantz, noting similarities in artistic techniques, including 3D modeling and CG rendering.
Reception and Author Yuki Ikeda
Thunder 3 quickly gained recognition since its launch. The series was nominated for the 2022 Next Manga Award in the print manga category and the eBook Initiative Japan Manga Award 2023. It also secured the fourth position on Takarajimasha’s Kono Manga ga Sugoi! list of best manga of 2024 for male readers, with critics commending its premise and realistic art.
Little is publicly known about author Yuki Ikeda, described by Monthly Shonen Magazine‘s official website as a “super rookie” whose debut series Thunder 3 was serialized on the spot due to its compelling concept. Ikeda’s identity remains somewhat of a mystery, leading to speculation among fans and some YouTube programs that the author might be a well-known mangaka, possibly even Hiroya Oku, given the stylistic similarities. However, the editorial team and Ikeda have reportedly maintained the mystery surrounding the author’s true identity.
English Language Release
For international readers, Kodansha USA has licensed Thunder 3 for print release, with the first volume having been published in November of the same year. The series has also been adapted into French. As of January 2025, eight tankōbon volumes have been released in Japan, signifying the manga’s ongoing popularity and critical acclaim.
