One Punch Man has captured the hearts of anime fans worldwide with its unique blend of humor, action, and commentary on the superhero genre. The series, based on the webcomic by ONE, has two seasons that contain both canon and filler episodes. Understanding the difference between these types of episodes is essential for fans who want to appreciate the story fully. In this article, we will dive into the canon and filler episodes of Seasons 1 and 2.
What Are Canon and Filler Episodes?
Before we delve into the specifics of One Punch Man, it’s important to clarify what is meant by canon and filler episodes:
- Canon Episodes: These are episodes that are directly adapted from the original source material, such as the manga or webcomic. They follow the established storyline and character arcs.
- Filler Episodes: These episodes are not found in the original source material. They are often created to provide additional content or to give the manga time to progress. Filler episodes may feature side stories or character development that does not impact the main plot.
Season 1 Overview
Season 1 of One Punch Man consists of 12 episodes that aired from October to December 2015. The season is primarily composed of canon episodes that faithfully adapt the manga’s early chapters.
Canon Episodes in Season 1
Most episodes in Season 1 are considered canon. Here’s a breakdown:
- Episode 1: “The Origin of Saitama”
- Episode 2: “The Lone Cyborg”
- Episode 3: “The Obsessive Scientist”
- Episode 4: “The Modern Ninja”
- Episode 5: “The Ultimate Mentor”
- Episode 6: “The Terrifying City”
- Episode 7: “The Ultimate Weapon”
- Episode 8: “The Deep Sea King”
- Episode 9: “The Hero Association”
- Episode 10: “The Dominator of the Universe”
- Episode 11: “The Strongest Hero”
- Episode 12: “The Path to the Strongest”
Filler Episodes in Season 1
Season 1 does not contain any filler episodes. Every episode contributes to the overall narrative and character development, making it a tightly woven story.
Season 2 Overview
Season 2 aired from April to July 2019 and consists of 12 episodes. This season received mixed reviews, partly due to changes in animation style and pacing.
Canon Episodes in Season 2
While Season 2 does contain several canon episodes, it also introduces a few filler episodes. Here’s a list of the canon episodes:
- Episode 1: “The Hero Association’s No. 1”
- Episode 2: “The Strongest Disciple”
- Episode 3: “The Hunt Begins”
- Episode 4: “The Metal Bat”
- Episode 5: “The Martial Arts Tournament”
- Episode 6: “The S-Class Heroes”
- Episode 7: “The Ultimate Ninja”
- Episode 8: “The Class S Heroes”
- Episode 9: “The Monster Association”
- Episode 10: “The Threat of the Monster Association”
- Episode 11: “The S-Class Heroes’ Challenge”
- Episode 12: “The Final Showdown”
Filler Episodes in Season 2
Season 2 includes a few filler episodes that do not have a direct correlation to the main plot. These episodes are:
- Episode 4: “The Metal Bat” (contains filler elements)
- Episode 5: “The Martial Arts Tournament” (includes additional character interactions)
Why It Matters
Understanding the distinction between canon and filler episodes is crucial for viewers who want to follow the storyline closely. Canon episodes provide essential plot developments, while filler episodes can offer entertainment and character exploration but may not be necessary for grasping the main narrative.
Conclusion
One Punch Man remains a standout series in the anime community, and knowing which episodes are canon versus filler can enhance the viewing experience. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the series, this guide aims to clarify your path through the adventures of Saitama and his companions.