The latest episode of One Punch Man Season 3 has finally given fans a major clue about the biggest mystery in the series: the secret behind Saitama’s overwhelming power. The episode, which aired recently, features a key explanation from Dr. Genus that introduces the conceptual “Limiter” to the anime audience. This theory provides a scientific-like reason for why Saitama stands alone as the world’s most powerful hero, distinct from every monster and other superhuman they face.
Dr. Genus Explains the Limiter Concept
In a scene that opens Episode 3, Zombieman has an unexpected meeting with the former scientist Dr. Genus. It is during this conversation that Genus lays out his groundbreaking theory. He explains that every living being has a natural boundary for growth, which he calls a “limiter.” This limiter is a biological safeguard that prevents a creature from acquiring too much power, as overwhelming strength can become unbearable and transform the individual into a mindless, rampaging monster.
According to Genus, Saitama is unique because he did not simply push his limits or become a monster. Instead, through his now-famous and seemingly simple training regimen, he completely removed his limiter. This act allowed him to achieve immeasurable strength without losing his humanity or his sense of self. The theory suggests that while monsters gain power by abandoning their humanity and receiving a new, higher limiter, Saitama broke his entirely, resulting in his current invincible state.
Dr. Genus stated, “No matter how much effort one puts in, every living being has an intrinsic limit to its growth… The mechanism with which growth is controlled is called the limiter.”
Garou’s Brutal Battle and a Twitching Hand
While Genus delivers his lecture, the episode cuts to a brutal fight between Garou and two demons from the Monster Association: Royal Ripper and Bug God. The battle is intensely competitive, and despite Garou’s theoretical strength, he is nearly overpowered. The fight takes a dark turn when the monster Sludge Jellyfish kidnaps the child Tareo.
Distracted by this, Garou is severely wounded by Royal Ripper, leaving him unconscious and bleeding. However, the Monster Association executives Bug God and Royal Ripper are under orders from Gyoro Gyoro to keep Garou alive. The episode ends with a shot of Garou’s hand twitching, confirming that the Hero Hunter has survived his injuries and hinting at his eventual return.
Saitama’s Everyday Problems Provide Comic Relief
In classic One Punch Man fashion, the heavy exposition and intense action are balanced with comedy centered on Saitama. The hero casually learns that he defeated Garou in a previous encounter, a fact he had completely forgotten. His more pressing concerns are overwhelmingly mundane.
At one point, Saitama becomes anxious after realizing he left his wallet and a bag of napa cabbage at a diner. This leads to a comical “dine and dash” scenario where Fubuki, the B-Class hero leader who was with him, ends up paying the bill. This contrast highlights the core of Saitama’s character—a man with god-like power who is still preoccupied with everyday life and grocery shopping.
The Monster Association Prepares for War
The episode also delves deeper into the plans of the main antagonists. Inside the Monster Association hideout, the commander Gyoro Gyoro shows no concern over Garou’s defeat. Instead, he orders the execution of a captured child and declares that the organization must prepare for all-out war.
This declaration comes after the monster Do-S reports that a Hero Association surveillance drone is likely to locate their secret base within a single day. This sets a clear and urgent timeline for the upcoming invasion by the heroes. The episode showcases the various dragon-level executives of the Monster Association, including Phoenix Man, Pure Blood, and others, setting the stage for the massive conflict to come.
Fan Reactions and Deeper Theories
The “Limiter” theory has been a major topic of discussion among fans. While its explanation in the anime provides a framework for Saitama’s power, many point out that it is not the only theory in the manga. Recent manga chapters have introduced new ideas, such as an “awakening” or “ascension” that characters like Saitama and Garou may have experienced. This suggests that the full explanation for Saitama’s strength may still be evolving within the story.
The reception to Season 3’s animation has been mixed among fans. Some viewers have expressed concern online, with one Reddit user stating, “I’m scared how they’ll handle the fights,” particularly after an exposition-heavy first episode. However, others have noted that the art style, coloring, and lighting seem improved from the second season, holding out hope that the animation quality will peak during the major battles still to come.
The season continues to adapt the long Monster Association arc, which is the most extensive story in the One Punch Man manga. With the heroes now aware of the monster base’s location and the villains preparing for war, the stage is set for an epic confrontation.
Also Read: One Punch Man Season 3 Episode 3 Release Details and Major Plot Preview
