by The upcoming TV anime Thunder 3 has revealed the official preview images and synopsis for Episode 1, titled “Small 3,” ahead of its highly anticipated premiere. Based on the manga by Yuki Ikeda, the series will begin broadcasting in Japan on July 8, 2026, with Netflix streaming the anime worldwide.
The newly released stills introduce viewers to the story’s main characters and offer the first glimpse of the heartfelt adventure that begins when a young girl suddenly goes missing.
A New Adventure Begins
Thunder 3 follows the story of three inseparable middle school friends known collectively as the “Small 3.”
Although they appear to be ordinary students living peaceful everyday lives, an unexpected incident changes everything when one of their loved ones mysteriously disappears.
Episode 1 introduces the group’s close friendship while setting the stage for the emotional and action-packed adventure that follows.
Episode 1 Synopsis – “Small 3”
The first episode centers on Pyontaro, a cheerful middle school student who often finds himself pushed around by his energetic younger sister, Futaba.
Their everyday sibling relationship suddenly takes a dramatic turn when Futaba unexpectedly goes missing.
Determined to find her, Pyontaro joins forces with his best friends—collectively known as the Small 3.
Together, the trio begins searching for Futaba, unaware that their investigation will lead them toward an extraordinary adventure far beyond anything they could have imagined.
The newly released preview stills capture several key moments from the opening episode, highlighting the friendship between the three boys as well as the mystery surrounding Futaba’s disappearance.
What Is ‘Thunder 3’?
Based on the manga by Yuki Ikeda, Thunder 3 blends everyday slice-of-life storytelling with mystery, science fiction, and action.
The series begins with a simple missing-person story before gradually expanding into a much larger adventure.
Its combination of relatable middle school characters, emotional storytelling, and unexpected twists has made the manga popular among readers, and fans are eager to see its unique world brought to life in animated form.
Main Characters
Pyontaro
The story’s main protagonist.
A kind-hearted middle school student who deeply cares about his younger sister, Futaba. When she disappears, he refuses to give up until he finds her.
Futaba
Pyontaro’s lively younger sister.
Although she frequently teases and bosses around her older brother, she is an important part of his life. Her sudden disappearance becomes the catalyst for the story.
The Small 3
Pyontaro and his two closest friends form the trio known as the Small 3, whose friendship and teamwork drive the adventure forward.
Anime Staff
The TV anime is based on the original manga by Yuki Ikeda, serialized in Kodansha’s Monthly Shonen Magazine.
Staff
- Original Work: Yuki Ikeda
- Serialized in: Monthly Shonen Magazine (Kodansha)
Additional production staff information is expected to be announced as the series approaches its premiere.
Voice Cast
The anime stars a talented cast of voice actors:
- Sayumi Suzushiro as Pyontaro
- Natsumi Kawaida as Tsubame
- Eri Akiyama as Hiroshi
- Honoka Mitsubachi as Futaba
Their performances bring the young cast of characters to life while emphasizing the close friendships and family relationships at the heart of the story.
Broadcast Schedule
The anime will premiere across multiple Japanese television networks beginning in July.
Television Broadcast
Fuji TV
- July 8, 2026
- 12:45 AM JST
- Episode 1 begins at 12:50 AM
Kansai TV
- July 9, 2026
- 2:15 AM JST
- Episode 1 begins at 2:19 AM
Tokai TV
- July 11, 2026
- 1:45 AM JST
BS Fuji
- July 12, 2026
- 1:30 AM JST
Hokkaido Cultural Broadcasting
- July 16, 2026
- 12:55 AM JST
TV Nishinippon
- July 16, 2026
- 2:15 AM JST
Streaming Information
Fans around the world will be able to watch Thunder 3 through Netflix.
- Worldwide Exclusive Streaming: July 8, 2026
The simultaneous global release will allow international audiences to experience the series alongside viewers in Japan.
Why ‘Thunder 3’ Is Worth Watching
At first glance, Thunder 3 appears to be a simple coming-of-age story about three middle school friends.
However, the series gradually develops into something much larger, blending friendship, mystery, suspense, and science-fiction elements into a unique adventure.
The emotional bond between the main characters, combined with the mystery surrounding Futaba’s disappearance, provides a compelling starting point that promises unexpected developments as the story unfolds.
For newcomers, the anime offers an accessible introduction filled with relatable characters and an engaging mystery, while longtime manga readers can look forward to seeing Yuki Ikeda’s artwork and storytelling adapted for television.
Final Thoughts
With its emotional premise, mysterious opening episode, and strong focus on friendship, Thunder 3 is shaping up to be one of the intriguing new anime premieres of Summer 2026.
Episode 1, “Small 3,” introduces viewers to Pyontaro and his friends as they begin searching for the missing Futaba—a journey that marks the beginning of a much greater adventure.
The anime premieres on July 8, 2026, on Fuji TV and other Japanese broadcasters, with Netflix streaming the series worldwide.
