Hunter x Hunter Review: A Shonen Adventure with Depth
9/10 — Hunter x Hunter (2011)
Pros
- Clever Nen power system
- Gon and Killua's friendship
- Powerful Chimera Ant arc
Cons
- Conventional early episodes
Twelve-year-old Gon Freecss sets out to become a Hunter, a licensed adventurer, in search of his father, befriending the young assassin Killua along the way. The 148 episodes cover arcs from the Hunter Exam to the Chimera Ants.
What works
The power system, Nen, is thoughtful and gives battles a strategic layer, and the Chimera Ant arc is a standout, taking the series to darker places. The friendship of Gon and Killua is the heart of it.
Where it falters
The early episodes are more conventional, and a few arcs drag.
Verdict
One of the best shonen anime, smart and emotional.
