How Far Is Hunter X Hunter Manga From Anime?

Hunter x Hunter is one of the most popular manga series, known for its intricate plot and deep character development. Fans of both the manga and anime often wonder how far the Hunter x Hunter manga is from the anime adaptation. This article will explore the differences between the two, including where the anime leaves off in relation to the manga and any critical story arcs that are still unexplored in the anime.

Understanding Hunter x Hunter: An Overview

Hunter x Hunter, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, debuted in 1998. The series follows young Gon Freecss, who aspires to become a Hunter—a specialist who can track down secret treasures, rare beasts, or even other individuals. The manga has achieved immense popularity and has been adapted into two anime series: the first in 1999 and the second in 2011.

The Two Anime Adaptations

The original 1999 anime adaptation of Hunter x Hunter aired until 2001, covering up to the end of the Greed Island arc. The 2011 adaptation, however, resumed the story from the beginning but continued beyond the 1999 version, reaching up to the end of the Chimera Ant arc before going on hiatus.

Manga Progression vs. Anime Endings

As of October 2023, the Hunter x Hunter manga is significantly ahead of the latest anime adaptation. Here’s a breakdown of the current status:

• The 1999 anime covers through the end of the Greed Island arc.
• The 2011 anime adapts content up to chapter 339 of the manga.
• The manga continues beyond chapter 399, encompassing several new arcs such as the Election arc and the ongoing Dark Continent Expedition arc.

How Far Is Hunter x Hunter Manga from Anime?

As of now, the Hunter x Hunter manga is approximately 90 chapters ahead of the latest anime adaptation. To provide clarity, let’s delve deeper into what this means for fans who are watching the anime versus those who are reading the manga.

Critical Arcs Missing from the Anime

Several key arcs present in the manga have not been adapted into the anime. These include:

• The 13th Hunter Chairman Election Arc: This arc deals with the elections for the new Chairperson of the Hunter Association and offers insights into various characters' motivations and goals.
• The Dark Continent Expedition Arc: This ongoing arc introduces new characters, dangers, and explores the unknown territories of the Dark Continent.

Differences in Storytelling and Pacing

The manga tends to delve deeper into character backstories and plot nuances, providing a richer narrative experience. In contrast, the anime, particularly the 2011 version, has streamlined certain elements for pacing. This leads to a different experience for viewers compared to readers.

Why Should You Read the Manga Instead of Watching the Anime?

Reading the Hunter x Hunter manga brings multiple advantages:

Detailed Artwork and Story Development

The manga presents the original artwork and storytelling as envisioned by Togashi. Readers can appreciate the intricacies of the illustrations and the thorough character developments often not fully captured in the anime.

Current Updates and New Content

Since the manga is ongoing, readers have access to the latest developments, allowing them to stay up-to-date with all the happenings in the Hunter x Hunter universe, unlike the completed anime series.

Conclusion: Embrace Both Worlds

While many fans relish the action-packed episodes of the Hunter x Hunter anime, exploring the manga offers a deeper understanding of the narrative. With the Hunter x Hunter manga being over 90 chapters ahead, there is an abundance of content waiting to be discovered. Whether you choose to watch the anime or read the manga, each provides a unique perspective on this beloved franchise. For the utmost experience, engaging with both forms could enrich your enjoyment of Hunter x Hunter.