Hunter x Hunter is a Japanese anime that has become a fan favorite thanks to its complex characters, thrilling storylines, and emotional depth.
At first, 148 episodes felt like a big commitment, but from the very beginning, the show hooks viewers with its incredible characters and storytelling.
It’s no wonder Hunter x Hunter has become a must-watch for anime fans.
Created in 1998, the series written by Yoshihiro Togashi follows 12-year-old Gon Freecss, a boy who dreams of becoming a Hunter to find his father, Ging.
The ‘Hunters Association’ holds an annual exam to determine if applicants are worthy of a hunter’s license which is for elite humans with extraordinary abilities. This license allows its holder to go almost anywhere and do almost anything. Throughout the hunter’s exam, Gon meets many other characters – some with better motivation than others.
The characters in this show are incredibly developed.
Gon is friendly, intensely loyal, and always looking to do the right thing, even when in a situation that seemingly won’t allow it. His naivety is endearing, although at times frustrating for other characters.
Other characters include Leorio – a self-centered and materialistic person who grows as the show continues, proving himself to be loyal and sensitive. Kurapika is introverted, stoic, and level-headed, although his righteous rage sometimes takes over. Finally there’s Killua – another 12-year-old hardened by his traumatic childhood and his family of famous assassins. Through his friendships, Killua shows his loyalty and clear desire to deviate from the path that his family wants for him.
While the series has plenty of heartwarming moments, it also goes to some very dark places. Antagonists can be brutal and vicious, torturing and mutilating their opponents. The protagonists are often faced with problems that have no good solution. Death is a reoccurring character.
The only downside of the show is that there’s not more of it as the last episode came out in 2014. The manga on which the series is based is also unfinished as its creator has been taking a hiatus due to health concerns.
Overall, Hunter x Hunter offers captivating storytelling, unforgettable characters, and visually stunning animation. The action scenes are gripping, and the episodes are short enough to make it easy to binge.
Just be warned: once you start, you might find yourself hooked.
