There's no time to rest in the final season of Fire Force.
It’s definitely an explosive start for the return of Fire Force, with the first episode of Season 3 rolling out last Friday. And Fire Force Season 3 Episode 1, titled “Indomitable Resolve”, kicks off the final season with confidence.
The episode did well in structuring the storytelling so that the recap isn’t delivered all at once, but instead segmented into smaller portions. Unlike many early-season recaps, this one was woven naturally into the episode and didn’t feel jarring. After four years without new episodes, it felt reasonable to spend time revisiting key moments from the second season—something that Episode 1 executed effectively.
Right from the start, the episode includes foreshadowing and references before unveiling the biggest plot twist for anime-only fans (which manga readers have known for four years). The tone then shifts quickly to something darker and more serious. Still, the episode succeeded in inserting some comic relief, all while maintaining the overall sense of urgency and tension.
In terms of visuals, fans can be reassured that the series’ distinct art style remains intact, and the animation quality is consistent.
There wasn’t a great deal of action in this episode, aside from the sparring session in Company 8. Arthur and Shinra’s match was a highlight, showcasing brief but impressive combat with Shinra’s feet clashing against Arthur’s blade. Maki and Tamaki’s bout—while interrupted by the usual unnecessary “Lucky Lecher Lure” gag, did feature some well-animated moments, especially Tamaki’s colourful flames wrapping and twisting around with her catlike agility.
However, there were some questionable artistic choices, such as in the opening scene with the Infernals. Their cries of “wooooo” and “aaargh” were stylised with colourful, almost Wordart-like text effects. While there may be a reason for this that becomes clear later, it currently feels visually out of place in terms of colour and tone.
Tamaki Kotatsu’s “Lucky Lecher Lure” is another choice that divides fans. While it’s a staple of her character, introducing the gag in the first episode for the sake of fan service felt misplaced. It seemed to undermine her character, and the joke might have been better saved for later in the season to avoid detracting from Tamaki’s development.
Since it’s been years since the last episode aired, a quick recap of the previous seasons is helpful:
A quick recap of Season 1 and 2:
Fire Force takes place in the Tokyo Empire, a world devastated by an event known as the Great Cataclysm, which led to the terrifying phenomenon of spontaneous human combustion. Victims transform into destructive Infernals, prompting the creation of the Special Fire Force—comprising second- and third-generation pyrokinetics who can manipulate fire. These individuals operate under the Holy Sol Temple, balancing faith, duty, and science to protect civilians and put Infernals to rest.
The story centres on Shinra Kusakabe, a third-generation pyrokinetic who joins the force to become a hero and uncover the truth behind his family’s death in a fire. He discovers that his mother became an Infernal and that his presumed-dead brother, Sho, was taken by the White-Clad, a cult devoted to a mysterious figure known as the Evangelist. As Shinra and his allies fight back, they begin to unravel the mystery behind the Adola Burst—a rare and powerful flame linked to both Shinra and Sho—and push their abilities to new heights in order to combat overwhelming threats.
In Season 2, Shinra and Arthur undergo intense training under Captain Benimaru, experiencing the “Press of Death” and awakening their “Hysterical Strength.” As the Fire Force unites against rising dangers, the season ends with a cryptic image of a grinning moon—evoking Soul Eater—leaving fans speculating about deeper connections. With so many unresolved questions and the Evangelist’s plans in motion, Season 3 is poised for an explosive continuation.
WARNING: Major spoilers ahead
Season 3 sets the series ablaze easily
Season 3 begins with haunting visuals: a sea of Infernals crying out beneath a grinning moon, watched over by the Evangelist. Haumea and Charon are already moving forward with their plan to reshape the Empire. Meanwhile, Company 8 continues training, showcasing their improved coordination—though Captain Obi is noticeably absent.
The Grinning Moon is a familiar addition to Fire Force, as it featured heavily in another of the creator, Atsushi Ohkubo's work: Soul Eater. This factoid also confirms that Fire Force's setting is the same to Soul Eater. Although to what extent the Grinning Moon's influence will be in Fire Force, we're yet to find out.
Obi shares a quick report to the Chief that touches on events like Nataku’s Adola Burst and the White-Clad’s plot to collapse Tokyo’s foundations. Just as Obi is being recognised for uniting the Empire, he is suddenly arrested by the Tokyo Imperial Army—and the White-Clad make a bold public appearance.
Elsewhere, several high-ranking Fire Force captains are summoned by Raffles, only for the White-Clad to interrupt. Raffles claims they are there to lead the Empire into a new era. Although most of the captains are visibly disturbed, Haumea continues her manipulation, using her powers to influence them and proclaiming their goal of transforming the world into a sun, as Sol supposedly once did. Captain Burns, despite his reservations, ultimately kneels—leaving the others shocked.
Back at Company 8, the team is shaken by Obi’s arrest and the possibility that Shinra may be next due to his Adola Burst. Hinawa prepares to go after Obi alone, but the rest of the team refuses to let him face the danger without them. Fully aware that they are defying the Empire, the squad stands united—ready to become outlaws if necessary.
The biggest twist: Leonard Burns
No one expected Leonard Burns to side with, or even kneel, before the White-Clad. In the scene, Haumea uses “Talking Head” to read his thoughts while trying to convince him that they share the same goals. She references the captain’s eye as proof that he has seen the truth, dismissing Karim’s accusations about the White-Clad’s desire to recreate the Cataclysm. According to Haumea, that’s merely the method to their ultimate aim—turning the world into a sun, just like Sol once did. The others are visibly horrified, but when Haumea demands proof of faith, Leonard complies and kneels.
Burns’ manipulation reflects how blind faith, especially in cult-like organisations, can lead to deception and destruction. Much like Haumea using “Talking Head” to extract and twist Burns’ inner thoughts, cults often weaponise partial truths to manipulate followers. While faith can be admirable, it must be grounded in truth and critical thinking to avoid becoming a tool of control.
In Burns’ case, Haumea exploited his deepest thoughts and experiences to break him down, leading to his shocking submission.
What will happen to Captain Obi?
The episode’s conclusion effectively sets up the broader plot while creating real urgency with the revelation that the White-Clad plan to implant an Insect in Obi.
Because although he has no powers, Obi is the heart of Company 8—known for his moral conviction and determination to save lives. He represents the ideal firefighter, constantly putting others before himself.
The conversation among the team felt slightly drawn out, but this slower pace is to be expected in a season opener. The use of comic relief as each member agreed to join Hinawa was handled well and added levity, especially after the weight of Burns’ betrayal.
Most importantly, this episode lays the groundwork for major confrontations ahead. A clash between Shinra and Leonard Burns seems inevitable, particularly now that Burns has aligned himself with the White-Clad—who currently hold Obi hostage.
Fire Force Season 3 kicks off with high stakes and heavy twists, setting the stage for an intense final arc. While the first episode takes its time to re-establish key elements and characters, it expertly builds momentum through foreshadowing, unexpected betrayals, and character development. With a darker tone and more personal stakes, the series is primed for explosive confrontations in the episodes to come. Fans can expect plenty of tension, emotional growth, and high-octane action as the season progresses.
