Hunter x Hunter Anime: The Hunt You Weren’t Prepared For!

“Hunter x Hunter” is an exhilarating journey full of adventure and trials, not unlike a daring exploration through the dense streets of Tokyo’s Akihabara district. Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, this series is renowned for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and its balance of light-hearted fun and darker themes.

Hunter x Hunter Story Summary

“Hunter x Hunter” follows the adventures of a young boy named Gon Freecss, who dreams of becoming a Hunter, an elite class of individuals with the license to track down secret treasures, rare beasts, or even other individuals. But his ultimate goal isn’t fame or fortune; it’s to find his father, Ging Freecss, a Hunter himself, who left Gon when he was a baby.

To fulfill his dream, Gon leaves his home on Whale Island and takes on the notoriously challenging Hunter Examination. During the exam, he befriends other candidates: the revenge-driven Kurapika, the ambitious and sharp-witted Leorio, and the ex-assassin Killua.

After the exam, the friends go on separate journeys that lead them into a world beyond their wildest imagination. From underground arenas to a deadly game world, and from the dangerous creatures known as Chimera Ants to the shadowy organization Phantom Troupe, Gon and his friends face numerous threats and challenges.

“Hunter x Hunter” is not merely an adventure story; it’s a deep exploration of personal ambitions, friendships, morality, and the darkness within the human soul. The story is a thrilling ride full of intense battles, strategic mind games, emotional moments, and unexpected twists.

Hunter x Hunter Characters

Gon Freecss: The protagonist of the series, Gon, is determined, optimistic, and has an uncanny ability to befriend others. Despite his cheerful personality, Gon has a serious side, especially when his friends are in danger.
Killua Zoldyck: A former assassin from the notorious Zoldyck family, Killua is a skilled fighter who becomes Gon’s best friend. He’s intelligent, cool-headed, and while he can be ruthless, he cares deeply for his friends.
Kurapika: The last surviving member of the Kurta clan, Kurapika is on a mission to avenge his clan and recover their stolen scarlet eyes. He’s calm, strategic, and can be ruthless when it comes to his mission.
Leorio Paradinight: An aspiring doctor who joins the Hunter exam to fund his medical studies, Leorio is straightforward, kind-hearted, and brings comic relief.

Summary of First Arcs

The initial arcs of “Hunter x Hunter,” including the “Hunter Exam Arc,” “Zoldyck Family Arc,” “Heavens Arena Arc,” and “Yorknew City Arc,” introduce the main characters, their dreams, and their world. They set the stage for the adventures, battles, and challenges that lie ahead for Gon and his friends.

Hunter x Hunter Anime Reading Order

“Hunter x Hunter” should be watched in chronological order, starting with the “Hunter Exam Arc.” The series unfolds as a continuous narrative, with each arc building upon the previous one.

My Personal Review/Watching Experience

Watching “Hunter x Hunter” felt like discovering a hidden gem in a thrift shop in Shimokitazawa. Its complex storylines, character development, and mix of light-hearted and dark themes make it a captivating watch. It’s a series that grows on you, with characters and stories that you’ll find yourself deeply invested in.

Hunter x Hunter Anime Quotes

“You should enjoy the little detours. To the fullest. Because that’s where you’ll find the things more important than what you want.” – Ging Freecss
“If I ignore a friend I have the ability to help, wouldn’t I be betraying him?” – Killua Zoldyck
“For the right price, you can buy not only treasures but dreams, hearts, and even people’s lives!” – The Oreo
“When I say it doesn’t hurt me, that means I can bear it.” – Killua Zoldyck
“Being able to cry for his friend… I wonder when Gon will be able to smile again.” – Morel Mackernasey
“A dream is something you do for yourself, not for others.” – Leorio Paradinight
“I’m not alone. I’m with Gon.” – Killua Zoldyck

About the Author/Artist

Yoshihiro Togashi, the creator of “Hunter x Hunter,” is well-known in the manga and anime industry. His works, including “Yu Yu Hakusho” and “Hunter x Hunter,” are celebrated for their intricate plotlines, character development, and exploration of darker themes.

TV Adaptations

“Hunter x Hunter” has been adapted into two anime series. The original aired from 1999 to 2001, and the more complete and widely celebrated adaptation, which faithfully follows the manga, aired from 2011 to 2014.

Hunter x Hunter FAQ

Is “Hunter x Hunter” suitable for kids? While “Hunter x Hunter” starts off light-hearted, it delves into darker themes as the series progresses. Some arcs may not be suitable for younger viewers.
Does “Hunter x Hunter” follow the manga? The 2011-2014 anime adaptation closely follows the manga, including most of the major arcs.
Where can I watch “Hunter x Hunter”? Hunter x Hunter is available on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll.

“Hunter x Hunter,” like a night out in Roppongi, is an adventure full of surprises, excitement, and emotional highs and lows. It’s a series that tests the limits of friendship, resilience, and humanity in a world where danger lurks around every corner.