From the nerve-wracking Hunter Exam to the mind-bending battles that follow, Hunter x Hunter is a rollercoaster of emotions, strategic showdowns, and unforgettable characters—all courtesy of Yoshiro Togashi’s genius.
This classic shounen anime is a masterclass in storytelling, where even the most seemingly innocent adventure quickly turns into a battle of wits, willpower, and a whole lot of fist-throwing.
Whether you’re in it for the strategic mind games or the high-octane action, Hunter x Hunter is a must-watch, but getting the order right is key to fully appreciating the ride. Buckle up, because you’re about to embark on a journey that’s as thrilling as it is unpredictable!
Hunter x Hunter 1999 Version
1. Hunter x Hunter (1999-2001)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER |
| Episodes | 62 |
| Aired | 1999-2001 |
A Hunter is one who travels the world doing all sorts of dangerous tasks. From capturing criminals to searching deep within uncharted lands for any lost treasures.
Gon is a young boy whose father disappeared long ago, being a Hunter. He believes if he could also follow his father’s path, he could one day reunite with him.
After becoming 12, Gon leaves his home and takes on the task of entering the Hunter exam, notorious for its low success rate and high probability of death to become an official Hunter.
He befriends the revenge-driven Kurapika, the doctor-to-be Leorio and the rebellious ex-assassin Killua in the exam, with their friendship prevailing throughout the many trials and threats they come upon taking on the dangerous career of a Hunter. Based on the manga by Togashi Yoshihiro.
2. Hunter x Hunter: Yorknew City (2002)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER OVA |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Aired | Winter 2002 |
After reuniting with Gon and his friends, Kurapika explained to them the risks he bears because of his abilities. Believing that his target of revenge is no longer alive and the search for his fallen comrade’s eyes could truly begin, Kurapika soon after receives a message informing him that all the Spiders still lived.
After much discussion between his friends, Gon, Kurapika and company decided to hunt after the one Spider member who’s ability could ultimately result in Kurapika’s defeat and death. Based on the manga by Togashi Yoshihiro.
3. Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island (2003)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER: Greed Island |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Aired | Winter 2003 |
After the battle with the Spiders, the search for Ging continues as Gon and Killua decided to once again attempt to purchase the rare game “Greed Island”.
However, Gon came up with a better plan, which was to volunteer to complete the game for the billionaire who owned it.
But some training must be done, as Gon and Killua’s abilities are still at a developing stage and “Greed Island” is no simple game for anyone to play with. It is the infamous game that could easily lead to one’s death. Based on the manga by Togashi Yoshihiro.
4. Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island Final (2004)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER G・I Final |
| Episodes | 14 |
| Aired | Spring 2004 |
Continuing with their adventure at Greed Island, Gon and Killua train furiously under the guidance of Biscuit for better preparation at attempting the game.
With their abilities vastly improving and the threat of player killers menacing Greed Island, Gon and company continue the game despite the dangers that they will face with the game activities and encounters with other players. Based on the manga by Togashi Yoshihiro.
Hunter x Hunter 2011 Remake
1. Hunter x Hunter (2011)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER (2011) |
| Episodes | 148 |
| Aired | 2011-2014 |
A new adaption by MADHOUSE studio.
A Hunter is one who travels the world doing all sorts of dangerous tasks. From capturing criminals to searching deep within uncharted lands for any lost treasures. Gon is a young boy whose father disappeared long ago, being a Hunter. He believes if he could also follow his father’s path, he could one day reunite with him.
After becoming 12, Gon leaves his home and takes on the task of entering the Hunter exam, notorious for its low success rate and high probability of death to become an official Hunter. He befriends the revenge-driven Kurapika, the doctor-to-be Leorio and the rebellious ex-assassin Killua in the exam, with their friendship prevailing throughout the many trials and threats they come upon taking on the dangerous career of a Hunter.
2. Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge (2013)
| Title | Gekijouban HUNTER×HUNTER: Hiiro no Genei |
| Episodes | 1 |
| Aired | Winter 2013 |
Kurapika became a Hunter to take vengeance on the Class-A crime group Phantom Troupe who massacred his clan for their unique eyes.
The eyes of the Kurta clan turn scarlet in times of anger or emotional agitation and are considered the most beautiful treasures in the world. Kurapika continues to pursue the Phantom Troupe but an unknown party has stolen his “scarlet eyes”.
With the help of Gon, Killua and Leorio, Kurapika’ s life was saved. However, the Phantom Troupe shows up before them and blocks their way. The true identity of the one with the No.4 spider tattoo is about to be unveiled.
3. Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission (2013)
| Title | HUNTER×HUNTER: THE LAST MAN |
| Episodes | 1 |
| Aired | Fall 2013 |
The strongest Hunters that once existed in the Hunters Association were split into “light” and “dark”, and each walked down their respective paths. The “dark” side begins moving in order to massacre all Hunters!
What actions will Gon take when the many crimes of Netero and the Hunters Association are unveiled…!?
| Arc | Manga Chapter | Eps (1999) | Eps (2011) |
| Hunter Exam | 1-38 | 1-31 | 1-21 |
| Zoldyck Family | 39-43 | 32-36 | 22-26 |
| Heavens Arena | 44-63 | 37-44 | 27-36 |
| Yorknew City | 64-119 | 45-70 | 37-58 |
| Greed Island | 120-185 | 71-92 | 59-75 |
| Chimera Ant | 186-318 | – | 76-136 |
| Hunter Chairman Election | 319-339 | – | 137-148 |
| Dark Continent | 340-348 | – | |
| Succession Contest | 349-390 | – |
There is another way out, which is to finish the 1999 version of the anime, then watch the new version from episode 75, instead of starting from the beginning. Keep in mind that the animation style is very different, and if you don’t enjoy this kind of transition, you might as well just watch the 2011 anime from the beginning.
Now that you’ve got the watch order down, you’re all set to embark on the epic journey of Hunter x Hunter.
Whether you’re here for the nostalgia of a classic shounen or diving in for the first time, one thing’s for sure: Hunter x Hunter will keep you hooked from start to finish. So grab some snacks, settle in, and let the adventure begin—just be ready to question everything you thought you knew about anime along the way!
