Hunter x Hunter (2011-2014) is a Japanese anime series based on Yoshihiro Togashi’s manga of the same name, broadcast from 2011 to 2014. Produced by Madhouse Studio, this series is a renewed version of the first adaptation from 1999 and consists of 148 episodes. The story follows the adventures of young Gon Freecss, who dreams of becoming a famous “Hunter” like his father. Hunters are licensed individuals specialized in special missions. Gon participates in a challenging 'Hunter Exam' to find his father, making friends like Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua in the process. The youth-oriented anime series stands out with themes of adventure, action, and friendship.

^{Hunter x Hunter Opening Theme (Crunchyroll)}

Background and Production

Hunter x Hunter is based on a manga series created by Yoshihiro Togashi, which began in 1998 in the youth comic magazine Weekly Shōnen Jump. The manga has sold over 65 million copies in Japan. The first anime adaptation, produced by Nippon Animation in 1999, lasted 62 episodes, but Togashi's health issues, which caused interruptions in the manga, prevented the completion of this adaptation. In 2011, Madhouse Studio produced a new anime series, taking the story from the beginning. This adaptation covers a larger portion of the manga.

Plot

Hunter x Hunter tells the story of 12-year-old Gon Freecss's effort to find his father, Ging Freecss, a world-renowned Hunter. The story begins with Gon participating in the 'Hunter Exam' and progresses through challenging stages of the exam, including arcs like Greed Island (a game world story) and the Chimera Ant Arc (a story arc where giant ants threaten the world). Gon meets Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio during the exam. The friendships he forms constitute the emotional foundation of the story. The series explores themes of friendship, courage, and personal growth. Realistic character development and moral dilemmas elevate the narrative to a universal dimension.

Seasons

Main Characters and Development

• Gon Freecss: A cheerful and determined boy, Gon sets out on a journey with the goal of finding his father. His pure but brave personality forms the emotional foundation of the story.
• Killua Zoldyck: Hailing from an assassin family, Killua is Gon’s closest friend. The abilities he develops through the special ability system (Nen) add depth to his character.
• Kurapika: As the sole survivor of his annihilated clan, he becomes a Hunter for revenge. His struggle against the criminal organization known as the Phantom Troupe adds a dramatic dimension to the story.
• Leorio: Leorio, who aims to become a doctor, is a helpful and practical character.

^{A Scene from the Hunter x Hunter Series (IMDb)}

Awards and Nominations

• 2012 Anime Grand Prix: Best Anime (Nomination)
• 2012 Tokyo Anime Award: Best Television Anime (Nomination)
• 2013 Crunchyroll Anime Awards: Best Shōnen (Nomination)