Updated February 12, 2023 by Ernie
In a world where Hunters; an elite cabal of humans track down secret treasures, rare beasts, and even rare humans. To become a hunter. one must pass an excruciating annual exam conducted by the Hunter Association (the passing rate being one in a hundred thousand).
Table of Contents
Gon Freecss, a young boy who was presumed to be an orphan his entire life finds out that his father is still alive and has since managed to become a legendary Hunter. Hence, Gon decides to become a Hunter to find him. It’s Shonen, and you’ll enjoy it if you already like shonen, however, it’s so much more than that.
Hunter X Hunter is one of the best anime shows you could watch, but here’s the thing. It’s not just a show/series, it’s also a bunch of movies, OVAs, Manga, the timelines, and watching order is a wonderful mess that new viewers find intimidating and are therefore discouraged from watching anything related to Hunter X Hunter again.
In this episode guide let me help you navigate the story arcs like a pro! Hence, I’ve devised a watching order for you so you don’t have to go through the pain of googling (thank me later!).
Common Questions About Hunter X Hunter:
Q1. What is the correct watch order for Hunter x Hunter Series?
- Hunter x Hunter episodes 1-148 (2011-2014)
- Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge movie (2013)
- Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission movie (2013)
Q2. Are there any OVAs for Hunter x Hunter?
- Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island (2004)
- Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island Final (2004)
- Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge (2013)
- Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission (2013)
Q3. Do You Need to Watch Hunter x Hunter in Order?
It is generally recommended to watch or read “Hunter x Hunter” in the order it was released, as the story and character development progress chronologically. Watching or reading out of order may confuse and make it difficult to fully understand and appreciate the story. However, if you are familiar with the story and characters, you can watch or read certain arcs or episodes out of order and still understand what is happening. Keep in mind that it’s all about personal preference, some people might prefer to watch it out of order and that’s fine too.
HOW TO WATCH HUNTER X HUNTER IN ORDER
Quick Watch Order
In a world where Hunters; an elite cabal of humans track down secret treasures, rare beasts, and even rare humans. To become a hunter. one must pass an excruciating annual exam conducted by the Hunter Association (the passing rate being one in a hundred thousand).
Gon Freecss, a young boy who was presumed to be an orphan his entire life finds out that his father is still alive and has since managed to become a legendary Hunter. Hence, Gon decides to become a Hunter to find him. It’s Shonen, and you’ll enjoy it if you already like shonen, however, it’s so much more than that.
The second adaptation was released in 2011, this one contains better animation. There are almost no fillers and it’s more faithful to the manga.
Watching the 2011 version is recommended. Some fans argue that the fillers in the previous adaptations were really good, and it’s true to some extent but I’ll still recommend watching the 2011 adaptation. If you have the time, you can always watch the fillers from the old adaptation later. Take a look at our Hunter X Hunter filler list blog for a hassle-free viewing experience.
Also if you’re a detail freak, I’d suggest you watch the first two episodes of the 1999 adaptation because one of the most important characters is introduced in them which the 2011 adaptation fails to do so properly.
Which Version To Watch?
Release Order
- Hunter X Hunter (1999-2003)
- Hunter X Hunter (2011-2014)
The Complete Watch Order: Hunter x Hunter Series (Both 1999 and 2011)
There are major distinctions between Hunter x Hunter anime versions (1999 & 2011). The 2011 version is a remake of the original series, with updated animation and a more faithful manga adaptation.
So, if you folks have been wondering what the best version to watch is? Then I suggest 2011 is the best thing to pick out of your pockets!
1. Hunter Exam Arc
Episodes: 31
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
Our first Arc begins with Gon Freecss, who has always thought that he was an orphan, until one fateful day. He encounters a mysterious stranger, the stranger claims that Gon’s father is very much alive.
The stranger gives him a Hunter Card. After learning all this, Gon decides to become a hunter, he obtains permission from him to say his farewell to everyone on his island and begins his journey.
He participates in the Annual Hunter Exams where he meets Kurapika, whose clan was murdered, and his only ambition in life is to exact revenge on the people responsible for their death (ring any bells Naruto fans?). He also meets Leorio, a man that’s only interested in seeking fortune (and of course, there’s a reason why he’s obsessed with money), and Killua seems to be there just because he’s bored (or is there some other reason?)
2. Zoldyck Family Arc
Episodes: 4 (2011 Version & 1999 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
Gon and Killua decide to take a vacation in Gon’s hometown after leaving Heaven’s Arena. The two of them come across a mysterious game called “Greed Island”(if the name didn’t give away how messed up it is, the next arc will) in the previous arc.
This game was created by a group of powerful nen users, one of them was Gon’s father. Meanwhile, Kurapika is a bodyguard for the Nostrade Family, more specifically, Neon Nostrade who is a flesh collector (yes it’s exactly what it sounds like) and the daughter of the head of the Nostrade Mafia Family.
His main objective, however, is to find the stolen eyes of his clan and kill them. He receives a tip that he’ll find the answers he’s looking for in Yorknew and as fate would have it, all four of them meet each other in the city of Yorknew. Their plans however go down the drain when they encounter the Phantom Troupe who also wants the mysterious game.
3. Heavens Arena Arc
Episodes: 10 (2011 Version), 9 (1999 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
After the Zoldyck Family Arc, Killua reunites with his friends. However, the path of a Hunter sends the four friends on their separate ways.
Leorio decides to become a doctor, while Kurapika tries to find a bodyguard job. Gon and Killua however are together and decide to participate in the most famous fighting tournament in the world. This tournament takes place in a high tower called The Heaven’s Arena. This arc is a long tournament.
At some point, the duo finds a box left by Gon’s father and also the next clue to find him, which is a game called Greed Island which will be sold at an auction in Yorknew City.
4. Yorknew City Arc/Phantom Troupe Arc
Episodes: 22 (2011 Version), 26 (1999 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
Gon and Killua decide to take a vacation in Gon’s hometown after leaving Heaven’s Arena. The two of them come across a mysterious game called “Greed Island”(if the name didn’t give away how messed up it is, the next arc will) in the previous arc.
This game was created by a group of powerful nen users, one of them was Gon’s father. Meanwhile, Kurapika is a bodyguard for the Nostrade Family, more specifically, Neon Nostrade who is a flesh collector (yes it’s exactly what it sounds like) and the daughter of the head of the Nostrade Mafia Family.
His main objective however is to find the stolen eyes of his clan and kill them. He receives a tip that he’ll find the answers he’s looking for in Yorknew and as fate would have it, all four of them meet each other in the city of Yorknew. Their plans however go down the drain when they encounter the Phantom Troupe who also wants the mysterious game.
5. Greed Island Arc
Episodes: 17 (2011 Version), 22 (1999 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
The four friends again go their separate ways. Leorio continues to pursue his dream of becoming a doctor while Kurapika becomes a bodyguard for the Nostrade Family again. Gon and Killua look for a sponsor to participate in Greed Island and eventually find one.
On the island, they meet Biscuit Krueger, a very strong nen user who trains them. The island consists of many horrors and surprises, among them is a player called Bomber who is notorious for killing a lot of players on the island. They also encounter the Phantom Troupe who intend to find a nen-remover after the fall of Genei Ryodon/Phantom Troupe.
Arcs in 2011 Anime Adaptation Only
1. Chimera Ant Arc
Episodes: 61 (2011 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
This has to be the most atrocious if not the best arc in the anime. There’s no way to summarise it without sounding at least a bit crazy. I mean, how do you say that one of the main characters is suddenly friends with an octopus? Or that there’s a character whose power is vaping.
After the events of the Greed Island arc, Gon and Killua (still in search of Gon’s father) meet Kite instead, who’s a student of Ging Freecss (Gon’s father). Kite specializes in wildlife, he even saved Gon’s life once.
They are hired to go to an island called NGL to investigate the creatures that were killing the islanders. These creatures turn out to be Chimera Ants. Ants that don’t look like humans. Chimera ants take the form of whatever poor soul ends up being the Queen Ants’ breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack and hence the confusion.
In any case, almost all of the Island dwellers are now Chimera Ants. And it is our trio’s responsibility to put an end to them, the only problem being, they’re incredibly powerful.
2. Chairman Election Arc
Episodes: 11 (2011 Version)
Duration Per Episode: 26 minutes
Plot
Killua decides to go back home to find a cure for Gon, who is deeply wounded after the fight with Neferpitou. He’s hanging on by a thread and Killua’s brother Alluka is the only person that can help him. Alluka can grant any wish as long as his requests are fulfilled.
Meanwhile, the Zodiac, Issac Netero’s 12 most trusted followers conduct the 13th Hunter Association Chairman Election after his death.
One of the problems that the Zodiacs face is the conditions that must be met to fulfill the election. The condition is; The candidate must garner a majority vote of 95% or the voting has to be done all over again. Why not take a moment to check out our latest blog on HUNTER x HUNTER, where we explore the Zodiac Signs of the characters? Get an in-depth look and see which astrological sign each character aligns with.
Are there any OVAs for Hunter x Hunter? (Watch Order with Summaries)
1. Hunter X Hunter: Spider (1999)
Plot
Kurapika has reunited with Gon and his friends. His abilities make him a huge risk and he knows this, but so do they. Can he finally start searching for the eyes of his friend?
2. Hunter X Hunter: Greed Island (1999)
Plot
Still, in search of his legendary Hunter father, Gon and his friend Killua enter Greed Island, a mysterious game that was created by a group of powerful nen users, one of them Gon’s father.
Together, they must navigate through the horrors they’ll face in the games and hopefully come out alive.
3. Hunter X Hunter: Greed Island Final (1999)
Plot
Greed Island is deadly, and the only way Gon and Killua can survive is with the help of Biscuit, a very powerful nen user who decides to train them. The island offers murderous activities, and killers all over.
One such killer is Bomber who is notorious for killing Greed Island players. Together the trio must face the bomber and also the infamous Phantom Troupe.
Hunter X Hunter Movies Watch Order (2013)
By the way, guys, if you’re wondering is it necessary to watch the movies before the series? Then the answer is no. The movies are not considered canonical and do not affect the main story.
1. Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge (2013)
Plot
Kurapika and another member of his clan get their eyes stolen. A clan that was known for its members having scarlet eyes was massacred. That’s the clan Kurpaika belongs to. Gon, Killua, and Leorio save him but the Phantom Troupe is not done with them.
2. Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission (2013)
Plot
The Hunter Association is divided, and its strongest members are now split into two factions; Light and Dark. The Dark faction begins to eradicate all Hunters, Amidst all this, Killua and Kurapika are attacked, and the latter almost dies.
Why were Killua and Kurapika attacked? What does Gon plan on doing to stop Netero & the Association? Will he sacrifice his morality to do it?
Conclusion
Well, there you have it my friends, a well-curated order for you to watch Hunter X Hunter. Now I know this all seems a little intimidating but once you start watching and start caring about the characters you’ll find yourself wanting more Hunter X Hunter content!
It was announced that a new anime adaptation of the manga series “Hunter x Hunter” is in development. However, the release date and other details have not been confirmed yet. Meanwhile, new manga chapters are coming! and you can check out our blogs for the latest news!
Wanna know more about Hunter X Hunter merchandise?! If we can’t quench your thirst then no worries! Hunter X Hunter has a huge fan community! This means that there are a lot of intriguing fan theories, in-depth analyses, and also some fascinating fan artwork! Therefore if you want more content, better check it out!
