Basic Information
Title (English): Hunter x Hunter
Alternative Titles: ハンター×ハンター (Hantā Hantā)
Author & Artist: Yoshihiro Togashi
Release Year: 1998
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Psychological, Shonen
Status: Ongoing (Hiatus as of 2024)
Overview
Hunter x Hunter is one of the most influential and intelligently written shonen manga of all time. Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, also known for Yu Yu Hakusho, this series transcends the boundaries of the typical adventure manga, combining emotional storytelling, philosophical depth, and intricate battle systems.
At its core, Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who sets out on a journey to become a Hunter and find his missing father. What begins as a simple coming-of-age tale evolves into a profound exploration of human ambition, morality, and identity.
Target Audience: Fans of deep, character-driven stories with complex power systems; suitable for readers aged 13 and above.
Storyline
The manga is divided into distinct arcs, each exploring different aspects of humanity, morality, and adventure.
1. Hunter Exam Arc: Gon joins the dangerous Hunter Exam to earn his license and prove his worth. Here, he meets key characters like Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, forming the emotional core of the story.
2. Yorknew City Arc: The narrative shifts to a darker tone as Kurapika seeks revenge against the Phantom Troupe, a group of master assassins. This arc showcases Togashi’s exceptional writing in psychological tension and character contrast.
3. Greed Island Arc: A creative mix of gaming and reality, where Gon and Killua train through puzzles, strategy, and Nen battles, blending adventure with emotional growth.
4. Chimera Ant Arc: Regarded as one of the best arcs in manga history. It explores the boundaries between humans and monsters, life and death, good and evil. The arc’s moral complexity and emotional payoff cement Hunter x Hunter as a masterpiece.
5. Dark Continent Expedition Arc: Still ongoing, this arc expands the world beyond known limits, diving into themes of exploration, danger, and existentialism.
Story Highlights:
Intricate Nen power system (one of the most logical and strategic in all manga).
Dynamic character growth and shifting moral perspectives.
Constantly evolving tone from lighthearted adventure to psychological thriller.
Main Characters
Gon Freecss: The main protagonist, driven by optimism and curiosity. His journey reflects innocence confronting the harsh realities of life.
Killua Zoldyck: Gon’s best friend and former assassin. A brilliant mix of childlike vulnerability and trained lethality.
Kurapika: The last survivor of the Kurta clan, consumed by vengeance. Represents moral struggle and sacrifice.
Leorio Paradinight: Initially comic relief, later becomes the group’s emotional and rational anchor.
Hisoka Morow: A charismatic, unpredictable antagonist who blurs the line between ally and enemy.
Chrollo Lucilfer: Leader of the Phantom Troupe; calm, intellectual, yet terrifyingly ruthless.
Each character undergoes profound development, revealing Togashi’s mastery of psychological realism and human emotion.
Art Style
Early Arcs: Simple, energetic line work with classic shonen expressions.
Later Arcs: Gritty, detailed illustrations reflecting emotional intensity.
Character Design: Distinct and expressive—each design mirrors personality and role (e.g., Killua’s sharp lines vs. Gon’s round, innocent face).
Panel Layout: Experimental, cinematic, and masterfully composed to enhance pacing and atmosphere.
Despite criticisms during hiatus periods (when art quality fluctuated), fans admire Togashi’s ability to convey emotion, chaos, and humanity through minimalism or detail when needed.
Themes & Messages
Human Nature: The duality of kindness and cruelty.
Ambition & Consequences: The cost of chasing one’s dreams.
Morality & Perspective: There are no true heroes or villains, only choices and outcomes.
Friendship & Growth: The balance between innocence and maturity.
The Chimera Ant Arc pushes these themes to their limits, exploring love, empathy, and death in ways few shonen manga dare to.
Impact & Reception
Sales: Over 84 million copies sold worldwide.
Adaptations: Two anime series (1999 and 2011), multiple films, and games.
Awards: Ranked consistently among the top 10 manga of all time on MyAnimeList and Anime News Network polls.
Cultural Impact: Its influence can be seen in series like Naruto, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Attack on Titan.
Critical Praise: Known for redefining the shonen genre by blending intellect, emotional realism, and ethical complexity.
Who Should Read It
Ideal for: Fans of action, adventure, strategy, and moral philosophy.
Readers who enjoy: Character-driven storytelling.
Recommended Age: 13+ due to moderate violence and psychological themes.
Conclusion & Recommendations
Overall Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Hunter x Hunter isn’t just a manga—it’s a journey into the complexity of the human soul. Emotional, intelligent, and deeply meaningful.
Should you read it? Absolutely. Whether you’re a new manga reader or a seasoned fan, Hunter x Hunter offers something profound, an experience that evolves as you grow with it.
If you liked Hunter x Hunter, try: Fullmetal Alchemist, Attack on Titan, Yu Yu Hakusho, Jujutsu Kaisen.
Community Reviews – What Readers Say About Hunter x Hunter
Overall Reception
Fans around the world praise Hunter x Hunter for being one of the smartest and most emotionally rich shonen manga ever created. While it starts with familiar adventure tropes, the story quickly evolves into something psychological, strategic, and deeply human.
What Readers Love
Exceptional Writing and Depth: “It’s not your typical battle manga. You have to experience it yourself; it’s unpredictable, mature, and incredibly well-written.”
Brilliant Art and Evolving Style: “I personally love it, the art is amazing. Some parts are even easier to read than to watch in the anime.”
Anime Adaptations That Complement the Manga: “Watch the anime first, specifically the 2011 version. It’s truly spectacular.”
Common Critiques
Inconsistent art quality during certain arcs, often due to the author’s health.
Long hiatuses slow the story’s progress.
Even so, most readers express deep respect for Togashi’s dedication and creative genius.
“Even with the breaks, it’s still a masterpiece. You can tell every panel comes from passion and care.”
Summary Table
Story & Themes: ★★★★★ “Deep, emotional, and unpredictable.”
Characters: ★★★★★ “Realistic growth and moral complexity.”
Art Style: ★★★★☆ “Evolves beautifully over time.”
Overall Enjoyment: ★★★★★ “A timeless masterpiece of shonen.”
People Also Ask
Is Hunter x Hunter still going in 2025?
As of 2025, Hunter x Hunter has not officially ended, but it remains on an extended hiatus. Author Yoshihiro Togashi continues to work on new chapters intermittently due to ongoing health issues. Togashi has confirmed that the story will continue when he’s able to draw.
Is Hunter x Hunter incomplete?
Yes, Hunter x Hunter is technically incomplete. The manga has not yet reached its final arc, and several storylines—particularly involving the Dark Continent Expedition—remain unresolved. Despite long breaks, fans still consider it one of the most in-depth and intelligently written shonen series.
How many Hunter x Hunter manga volumes are there?
As of 2025, there are 37 tankōbon volumes published by Shueisha. The manga began serialization in 1998 in Weekly Shōnen Jump, covering key arcs such as the Hunter Exam, Yorknew City, Greed Island, Chimera Ant, and the ongoing Succession War arc.
Is there LGBT representation in Hunter x Hunter?
While Hunter x Hunter does not explicitly focus on LGBT themes, it includes characters with diverse gender expression and ambiguous sexuality. Characters like Alluka Zoldyck are discussed within fan communities for their portrayal of gender identity and acceptance, handled with nuance for a shonen manga.
Who is the strongest character in Hunter x Hunter?
Meruem, the Chimera Ant King, is widely considered the most powerful being introduced so far. His strength, intelligence, and evolution make him nearly unbeatable. Other top-tier contenders include Isaac Netero, Ging Freecss, and Chrollo Lucilfer.
