Hunter x Hunter (2011) Review: Why This Anime is a Timeless Masterpiece

Synopsis

Hunter x Hunter (2011) is widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved anime series of all time. Adapted from Yoshihiro Togashi’s long-running manga, this version reintroduces fans to the story with modern animation, expanded arcs, and a faithful representation of its unique blend of action, strategy, and heartfelt storytelling. Unlike traditional shonen anime that rely primarily on brute strength, Hunter x Hunter (2011) emphasizes intelligence, character depth, and emotional conflict, making it stand out in an already competitive genre.

The story follows Gon Freecss, a cheerful yet determined boy who sets out on a journey to become a professional Hunter—a licensed individual who takes on dangerous jobs such as tracking down criminals, exploring uncharted territories, or discovering mythical treasures. His motivation stems from his desire to find his father, Ging Freecss, a legendary Hunter who abandoned him at a young age. Gon’s innocent optimism contrasts sharply with the challenges ahead, and his path is filled with unexpected allies and formidable enemies.

Throughout the series, Gon befriends Killua Zoldyck, an ex-assassin who struggles with the morality of his upbringing; Kurapika, the last survivor of the Kurta Clan, who seeks revenge against the Phantom Troupe; and Leorio Paradinight, whose dream of becoming a doctor drives him to join the Hunter Exam. These friendships form the emotional core of the narrative, showcasing themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and personal growth.

Unlike many anime where battles are decided by sheer power, Hunter x Hunter (2011) introduces the concept of Nen, a complex energy system that requires intelligence, creativity, and strategic mastery. This elevates every fight into a battle of wits as much as strength. The diversity of Nen abilities also allows the series to highlight each character’s individuality, making encounters unpredictable and thrilling.

The anime covers multiple arcs, each distinct in tone and storytelling. The Hunter Exam Arc introduces viewers to the harsh realities of becoming a Hunter. The Heavens Arena Arc focuses on Gon and Killua’s growth in combat and Nen. The Yorknew City Arc dives into mafia wars and Kurapika’s revenge mission. The Greed Island Arc blends adventure with the mechanics of a high-stakes game. Finally, the Chimera Ant Arc, considered one of the best story arcs in anime history, explores morality, evolution, and the complexity of human nature through a war between Hunters and the deadly Chimera Ants. The series concludes with the Election Arc, bringing Gon closer to his father while showcasing the political intricacies of the Hunter Association.

Through its mix of emotionally charged storylines, morally complex villains, and unpredictable plot developments, Hunter x Hunter (2011) proves itself as more than just a typical shonen anime. It is a timeless masterpiece that explores the very essence of humanity—friendship, ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one’s destiny.

Hunter x Hunter (2011) Details

Episodes	148
Genre(s)	Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Shounen
Author	Based on the manga by Yoshihiro Togashi
Studio(s)	Madhouse
Legal Streaming Platform(s)	Crunchyroll, Netflix (region-dependent), Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (region-dependent)
Rating	PG-13 (violence, mature themes)

Pros and Cons

Like any great anime, Hunter x Hunter (2011) has its strengths and weaknesses. Its depth, character-driven narrative, and innovative approach to storytelling have earned it worldwide acclaim, but it’s not without elements that may challenge or even frustrate certain viewers. Below is a balanced look at both sides.

Pros

• Deeply Developed Story Arcs

  Each arc in Hunter x Hunter (2011) is unique in tone and structure, preventing the story from becoming repetitive. From the lighthearted adventure of the Hunter Exam to the dark and philosophical Chimera Ant Arc, the anime offers a variety of emotional experiences that appeal to different audiences.

• Innovative Power System (Nen)

  The Nen system is one of the most well-structured and strategic energy systems in anime history. Unlike simple power-ups, Nen requires creativity, planning, and intelligence, which makes every battle unpredictable and engaging.

• Complex and Relatable Characters

  The characters are multidimensional, each with distinct motivations and flaws. Whether it’s Gon’s childlike optimism, Killua’s struggle with morality, or Meruem’s philosophical evolution, the cast ensures emotional investment from start to finish.

• High-Quality Animation and Soundtrack

  The 2011 adaptation benefits from fluid fight choreography and vibrant visuals. Combined with an emotionally powerful soundtrack, the presentation elevates every dramatic moment, particularly in intense battles and emotional confrontations.

• Philosophical and Emotional Themes

  Unlike most shonen anime, Hunter x Hunter (2011) delves into mature themes such as revenge, morality, sacrifice, and the nature of humanity. These layers give it timeless appeal, attracting not only young viewers but also adult audiences seeking deeper narratives.

Cons

• Slow Pacing in Certain Arcs

  Some arcs, especially the Chimera Ant Arc, have deliberately slow pacing. While this allows for greater depth, it can test the patience of viewers who prefer fast-moving narratives.

• Hiatus Legacy of the Manga

  Although the anime covers a significant portion of the manga, the story remains unfinished due to the author’s health-related hiatuses. Viewers looking for complete closure may feel unsatisfied.

• Length and Commitment

  With 148 episodes, the series requires a considerable time investment. For casual anime fans, this might feel overwhelming compared to shorter series.

• Sudden Tonal Shifts

  The series often transitions between lighthearted humor and dark, emotionally heavy moments. While this variety is a strength, it may feel jarring for viewers who prefer a consistent tone.

• Limited Focus on Some Characters

  Although the main cast is fleshed out, certain secondary characters, including Leorio in some arcs, don’t receive as much screen time as fans might wish. This can leave viewers longing for more balance in character exploration.

Main Characters

One of the strongest aspects of Hunter x Hunter (2011) is its memorable cast. Each character plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative, and their growth throughout the series adds depth to the story. Below are the main characters and their roles:

Gon Freecss

Gon is the central protagonist of the series, a boy full of optimism, curiosity, and determination. His primary motivation is to find his father, Ging Freecss, a legendary Hunter who left him as a child. Despite his cheerful and adventurous nature, Gon’s journey reveals his darker, more complex sides, especially when he is pushed to emotional extremes. He embodies the series’ core theme: the balance between innocence and maturity.

Killua Zoldyck

Killua, Gon’s best friend and one of the most beloved characters in anime, comes from the infamous Zoldyck family of assassins. Initially cold and calculating due to his upbringing, Killua gradually develops his own moral compass through his friendship with Gon. His struggle to escape his family’s dark legacy and embrace genuine freedom makes him one of the most complex and relatable characters in the series.

Kurapika

Kurapika is the last surviving member of the Kurta Clan, whose people were massacred for their Scarlet Eyes. Driven by vengeance, his goal is to reclaim the stolen eyes of his people and bring justice to those responsible. Unlike Gon and Killua, Kurapika’s story is far more tragic, and his intelligence, resourcefulness, and emotional depth make him stand out as both a friend and a force to be reckoned with.

Leorio Paradinight

Leorio is initially portrayed as comic relief, but his character grows significantly throughout the series. His dream is to become a doctor to help those in need, which reflects his strong moral values and loyalty. Although he isn’t as powerful as other main characters, Leorio’s charisma, kindness, and ambition make him indispensable to the group.

Hisoka Morow

Hisoka is one of the most enigmatic and unpredictable characters in Hunter x Hunter. A skilled and sadistic fighter, he thrives on challenging powerful opponents. His fascination with Gon and Killua adds layers of tension to the story, as his intentions often blur the line between ally and enemy. Hisoka’s complexity and unpredictability make him one of the most iconic antagonists in anime.

Hunter × Hunter (2011) Episode List

Number	Episode Title (English)	Date
1	Departure × And × Friends	Oct 2, 2011
2	Test × of × Tests	Oct 9, 2011
3	Rivals x In x Survival	Oct 16, 2011
4	Hope × and × Ambition	Oct 23, 2011
5	Hisoka × is × Sneaky	Oct 30, 2011
6	A × Surprising × Challenge	Nov 6, 2011
7	Showdown × On × The Airship	Nov 13, 2011
8	Solution × Is × Majority Rules?	Nov 20, 2011
9	Beware × Of × Prisoners	Nov 27, 2011
10	Trick × To × The Trick	Dec 4, 2011
11	Trouble × With × The Gamble	Dec 11, 2011
12	Last Test × Of × Resolve	Dec 18, 2011
13	RecapLetter × From × Gon	Dec 25, 2011
14	Hit × The × Target	Jan 8, 2012
15	Scramble × Of × Deception	Jan 15, 2012
16	Defeat × And × Disgrace	Jan 22, 2012
17	Trap × In × The Hole	Jan 29, 2012
18	Big × Time × Interview	Feb 5, 2012
19	Can't Win × But × Can't Lose	Feb 12, 2012
20	Baffling Turn × Of × Events	Feb 19, 2012
21	Some × Brother × Trouble	Mar 4, 2012
22	A × Dangerous × Watchdog	Mar 11, 2012
23	The × Guard's × Duty	Mar 18, 2012
24	The × Zoldyck × Family	Mar 25, 2012
25	Can't See × If × You're Blind	Apr 1, 2012
26	RecapThen × and × After	Apr 8, 2012
27	Arrival × At × The Arena	Apr 15, 2012
28	Nen × And × Nen	Apr 22, 2012
29	Awakening × And × Potential	Apr 29, 2012
30	Fierce × And × Ferocious	May 6, 2012
31	Destiny × And × Tenacity	May 13, 2012
32	A × Surprising × Win	May 20, 2012
33	An × Empty × Threat	May 27, 2012
34	Power × To × Avenge	Jun 3, 2012
35	The × True × Pass	Jun 17, 2012
36	A Big Debt × And × A Small Kick	Jun 22, 2012
37	Ging × And × Gon	Jun 29, 2012
38	Reply × From × Dad	Jul 7, 2012
39	Wish × And × Promise	Jul 14, 2012
40	Nen × Users × Unite?	Jul 22, 2012
41	Gathering × Of × Heroes	Jul 29, 2012
42	Defend × And × Attack	Aug 5, 2012
43	A × Shocking × Tragedy	Aug 12, 2012
44	Buildup × To A × Fierce Battle	Aug 19, 2012
45	Restraint × And × Vow	Sep 2, 2012
46	Chasing × And × Waiting	Sep 9, 2012
47	Condition × And × Condition	Sep 16, 2012
48	Very × Sharp × Eye	Sep 23, 2012
49	Pursuit × And × Analysis	Sep 30, 2012
50	Ally × And × Sword	Oct 7, 2012
51	A × Brutal × Battlefield	Oct 14, 2012
52	Assault × And × Impact	Oct 21, 2012
53	Fake × And × Psyche	Oct 28, 2012
54	Fortunes × Aren't × Right?	Nov 4, 2012
55	Allies × And × Lies	Nov 11, 2012
56	Beloved × And × Beleaguered	Nov 18, 2012
57	Initiative × And × Law	Dec 2, 2012
58	Signal × To × Retreat	Dec 9, 2012
59	Bid × And × Haste	Dec 16, 2012
60	End × And × Beginning	Dec 23, 2012
61	Invitation × And × Friend	Jan 6, 2013
62	Reality? × And × Raw	Jan 13, 2013
63	A × Hard × Master?	Jan 20, 2013
64	Strengthen × And × Threaten	Jan 27, 2013
65	Evil Fist × And × Rock-Paper-Scissors	Feb 3, 2013
66	Strategy × And × Scheme	Feb 10, 2013
67	15 × 15	Feb 17, 2013
68	Pirates × And × Guesses	Feb 24, 2013
69	A × Heated × Showdown	Mar 3, 2013
70	Guts × And × Courage	Mar 10, 2013
71	Bargain × And × Deal	Mar 17, 2013
72	Chase × And × Chance	Mar 24, 2013
73	Insanity × And × Sanity	Mar 31, 2013
74	Victor × And × Loser	Apr 7, 2013
75	Ging's Friends × And × True Friends	Apr 14, 2013
76	Reunion × And × Understanding	Apr 21, 2013
77	Unease × And × Sighting	Apr 28, 2013
78	Very × Rapid × Reproduction	May 5, 2013
79	No × Good × NGL	May 12, 2013
80	Evil × And × Terrible	May 19, 2013
81	The × Fight × Begins	May 26, 2013
82	Kite × And × Slots	Jun 2, 2013
83	Inspiration × To × Evolve	Jun 9, 2013
84	A × Fated × Awakening	Jun 16, 2013
85	Light × And × Darkness	Jun 23, 2013
86	Promise × And × Reunion	Jun 30, 2013
87	Duel × And × Escape	Jul 7, 2013
88	Rock-Paper-Scissors × And × Weakness	Jul 14, 2013
89	Compassion × And × Strength	Jul 21, 2013
90	Interest × And × Curse	Jul 28, 2013
91	The Strong × And × The Weak	Aug 4, 2013
92	One Wish × And × Two Promises	Aug 11, 2013
93	Date × With × Palm	Aug 18, 2013
94	Friend × And × Journey	Sep 1, 2013
95	Grudge × And × Dread	Sep 8, 2013
96	A × Lawless × Home	Sep 15, 2013
97	Carnage × And × Devastation	Sep 22, 2013
98	Infiltration × And × Selection	Sep 29, 2013
99	Combination × And × Evolution	Oct 9, 2013
100	Tracking × And × Pursuit	Oct 16, 2013
101	Ikalgo × And × Lightning	Oct 23, 2013
102	Power × And × Games	Oct 30, 2013
103	Check × And × Mate	Nov 6, 2013
104	Doubt × And × Hesitation	Nov 13, 2013
105	Resolve × And × Awakening	Nov 20, 2013
106	Knov × And × Morel	Nov 27, 2013
107	Return × And × Retire	Dec 4, 2013
108	Gungi × Of × Komugi	Dec 11, 2013
109	Taking Stock × And × Taking Action	Dec 18, 2013
110	Confusion × And × Expectation	Dec 25, 2013
111	Charge × And × Invade	Jan 8, 2014
112	Monster × And × Monster	Jan 15, 2014
113	An × Indebted × Insect	Jan 22, 2014
114	Divide × And × Conquer	Jan 29, 2014
115	Duty × And × Question	Feb 5, 2014
116	Revenge × And × Recovery	Feb 12, 2014
117	Insult × And × Payback	Feb 19, 2014
118	A × False × Rage	Feb 26, 2014
119	Strong × Or × Weak	Mar 5, 2014
120	Fake × And × Real	Mar 12, 2014
121	Defeat × And × Dignity	Mar 19, 2014
122	Pose × And × Name	Mar 26, 2014
123	Centipede × And × Memory	Apr 2, 2014
124	Breakdown × And × Awakening	Apr 9, 2014
125	Great Power × And × Ultimate Power	Apr 16, 2014
126	Zero × And × Rose	Apr 23, 2014
127	Hostility × And × Determination	Apr 30, 2014
128	Unparalleled Joy × And × Unconditional Love	May 7, 2014
129	Formidable Enemy × And × Clear Objective	May 14, 2014
130	Magic × And × Despair	May 21, 2014
131	Anger × And × Light	May 28, 2014
132	Flash × And × Trigger	Jun 4, 2014
133	Deadline × to × Live	Jun 11, 2014
134	The Word × Is × That Person	Jun 18, 2014
135	This Day × And × This Moment	Jun 25, 2014
136	Homecoming × And × Real Name	Jul 2, 2014
137	Twelve Zodiac × In × Discussion	Jul 9, 2014
138	Plea × and × Favor	Jul 16, 2014
139	Alluka × and × That Thing	Jul 23, 2014
140	Third Election × And × Re-election	Jul 30, 2014
141	Magician × And × Butler	Aug 6, 2014
142	Needle × And × Debt	Aug 13, 2014
143	Sin × And × Claw	Aug 20, 2014
144	Approval × And × Coalition	Aug 27, 2014
145	Defeat × And × Reunion	Sep 3, 2014
146	Chairman × And × Release	Sep 10, 2014
147	Salvation × And × Future	Sep 17, 2014
148	Until Now × And × From Now	Sep 24, 2014

Legal Places to Watch

If you’re planning to dive into Hunter x Hunter (2011), it’s essential to know where you can stream it legally in high quality. Watching through official platforms not only supports the creators but also guarantees a smoother viewing experience with subtitles or dubs. Here are the best platforms to watch Hunter x Hunter (2011):

1. Crunchyroll

   Crunchyroll is one of the largest anime streaming platforms and offers Hunter x Hunter (2011) with both Japanese audio and English subtitles. It’s an excellent option for viewers who prefer simulcast-style releases and official translations. Crunchyroll typically provides high-definition video quality and allows users to watch on multiple devices.

   👉 Watch on Crunchyroll

2. Netflix

   Netflix has become a go-to platform for casual anime fans, and Hunter x Hunter (2011) is available in many regions. The platform often provides multiple language dubs (including English, Spanish, and French) alongside subtitles, making it accessible to a global audience. With its offline download feature, Netflix is a convenient choice for viewers who want to watch on the go.

   👉 Watch on Netflix

3. Hulu

   For viewers in the United States, Hulu also offers Hunter x Hunter (2011). It provides both subtitled and dubbed versions, ensuring flexibility for different viewing preferences. Since Hulu bundles anime with a wide range of TV shows and movies, it’s a great platform for audiences who enjoy variety alongside anime.

   👉 Watch on Hulu

4. Amazon Prime Video (Select Regions)

   In some regions, Hunter x Hunter (2011) is available for streaming or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. This option is useful for viewers who prefer to buy episodes or seasons individually rather than committing to a subscription service.

   👉 Watch on Amazon Prime Video

Reasons Why You Should Watch

Hunter x Hunter (2011) isn’t just another shonen anime—it’s a series that redefined what the genre could achieve. If you’re wondering whether this anime deserves a spot on your watchlist, here are compelling reasons why it absolutely does:

1. Complex Storytelling with Depth

   Unlike many action-heavy series, Hunter x Hunter (2011) balances fast-paced battles with intricate story arcs. Each arc, from the Hunter Exam to the Chimera Ant arc, introduces moral dilemmas, psychological depth, and unexpected twists that keep you hooked. The narrative doesn’t spoon-feed answers but challenges viewers to think critically about motives, justice, and humanity.

2. Character Growth that Feels Real

   The character development in Hunter x Hunter is second to none. Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio all experience significant changes, shaped by both victories and tragedies. Their growth feels natural, not forced, making their journeys resonate on a deeper level. Even side characters are given layers of complexity, making the world feel alive.

3. Unique and Strategic Battles

   Instead of relying solely on flashy power-ups, Hunter x Hunter focuses on strategy, intelligence, and creativity in battles. The introduction of “Nen” as a power system is one of the most detailed and flexible in anime, allowing for a wide variety of abilities and tactics. Each fight feels like a chess match where brains matter as much as strength.

4. A Blend of Genres That Works Seamlessly

   While fundamentally an action-adventure, Hunter x Hunter (2011) seamlessly blends in elements of mystery, dark fantasy, and even philosophical drama. The Chimera Ant arc, for instance, explores existential themes about life, morality, and evolution, making it feel more like a human drama than just an action arc.

5. Timeless Appeal and Rewatch Value

   Even after finishing, many fans find themselves rewatching Hunter x Hunter (2011). Its layered storylines, foreshadowing, and subtle character interactions reveal new insights upon a second or third viewing. This timeless appeal ensures that the anime remains relevant for both new fans and long-time viewers.

My Viewing Experience

After completing Hunter x Hunter (2011) in its entirety, I can confidently say that my experience was nothing short of very satisfying and incredibly exciting. If I were to rate it, the series comfortably falls between 9 and 9.5 out of 10, which firmly places it in the “Highly Recommended” category.

What Stood Out

What stood out to me the most was how the anime consistently surprised me with its depth and creativity. At first, I expected a traditional shounen adventure filled with training arcs, rivalries, and tournaments. Instead, I was given a series that constantly reinvented itself, presenting new ideas, fresh tones, and thought-provoking moral dilemmas in every story arc.

• The Hunter Exam drew me in with its thrilling survival challenges.
• The Yorknew City arc impressed me with its mafia underworld and the terrifying presence of the Phantom Troupe.
• Then came the Chimera Ant arc, which completely shattered my expectations with its philosophical depth and emotional storytelling—it was not just anime, but art.

Character Dynamics

On a personal level, the character dynamics resonated with me in a way few anime have managed. Gon and Killua’s friendship felt authentic, layered with moments of laughter, struggle, and sacrifice.

• Gon and Killua’s friendship gave the series its emotional heartbeat.
• Kurapika and Leorio added weight with their own meaningful journeys.
• Even the villains left a lasting impact—Hisoka’s unpredictability, Chrollo’s cunning calmness, and Meruem’s tragic transformation lingered in my thoughts.

By the time I reached the final arc, I realized I had grown deeply attached to the characters and the world. Yes, it was frustrating to know the story remains unfinished, but instead of leaving me unsatisfied, it left me with a greater appreciation for how much Hunter x Hunter had already achieved. Few anime manage to strike such a perfect balance of excitement, intellect, and emotion. Watching it felt less like entertainment and more like experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime story.

Eight Reviews from Viewers Worldwide

To give a broader perspective beyond my own viewing experience, here are eight unique reviews from fans across the Americas and Europe. Each reflects different impressions, but all underline the global impact of Hunter x Hunter (2011).

★★★★☆

“I have watched many shonen anime, but Hunter x Hunter easily stands above most. The Nen system feels logical and detailed, making every battle a thrilling mind game. What impressed me most is the way the Chimera Ant arc shifted into something so dark and emotional—I was in tears by the end.”

Lucas Martín (Argentina) - Rating: 9.5/10

★★★★☆

“The character development here is outstanding. Killua is my absolute favorite—his journey from a cold assassin to a loyal friend touched my heart. While some episodes slowed down, the payoff was always worth it. Truly a masterpiece that I’ll never forget.”

Emilia Novak (Poland) - Rating: 8.8/10

★★★★☆

“What makes Hunter x Hunter (2011) unforgettable is how intelligent the storytelling is. I loved how Nen wasn’t just about strength but about strategy and creativity. It made every fight unpredictable and fresh. For me, this anime is proof that shonen can be sophisticated.”

Rafael Costa (Brazil) - Rating: 9.0/10

★★★★☆

“I didn’t expect an anime to dive so deeply into themes like morality, humanity, and the meaning of life. The Chimera Ant arc changed the way I look at anime—it wasn’t just entertainment, it was art. Some parts broke my heart, but that’s why it was so impactful.”

Hannah Greene (United States) - Rating: 9.2/10

★★★★☆

“This anime has everything—adventure, emotion, and intensity. I started it casually but ended up completely invested in Gon and Killua’s friendship. Their bond carried me through even the most brutal parts of the series. A show I would recommend to anyone, even non-anime fans.”

Mateo Rojas (Chile) - Rating: 8.5/10

★★★★☆

“I admire the pacing and how each arc feels unique. From the Hunter Exam to Greed Island, each storyline had its own flavor and challenges. By the time I reached the Chimera Ant arc, I realized I wasn’t just watching a typical shonen—I was watching a timeless story.”

Sofia Richter (Germany) - Rating: 9.1/10

★★★★☆

“What I loved most was how unpredictable Hunter x Hunter is. You never know what’s going to happen next, and no character feels safe. It’s bold, emotional, and incredibly smart. Easily one of the best anime I’ve ever watched.”

Oliver Hayes (England) - Rating: 8.7/10

★★★★☆

“Few anime made me feel so attached to the characters. Kurapika’s arc was heartbreaking, Killua’s story was inspiring, and Gon’s transformation was shocking. This series doesn’t shy away from tough themes, and that’s why it left such a strong impact on me.”

Valeria Torres (Mexico) - Rating: 9.3/10