How to Watch 'Hunter x Hunter' in Order (Including the Movies), Explained

Hunter x Hunter is a popular shonen title about a young hero who fights monsters. The story follows 12-year-old Gon Freecss as he embarks on a journey to become a Hunter like his father.

Now, let's discuss what the Hunter x Hunter franchise consists of and the proper order in which to watch the anime.

What Does 'Hunter x Hunter' Consist Of?

The world-famous anime began with the release of the manga by Yoshihiro Togashi in the Japanese magazine Weekly Shonen Jump. It has been published from 1998 to the present.

The adaptation of Hunter x Hunter consists of two anime series. Nippon Animation produced the first adaptation, releasing 62 episodes of the series and many OVAs.

Madhouse produced the second adaptation, releasing 148 episodes and two movies.

What Are the Differences Between the Two Anime Adaptations?

The first anime adaptation of Hunter x Hunter aired from 1999 to 2001. Since not many chapters of the manga had been published at that time, the series only covered part of the story. The first adaptations include:

• Hunter x Hunter Pilot (1998);

• Hunter x Hunter – 62 episodes (1999-2001);

• OVA Hunter x Hunter – 8 episodes (2002);

• OVA Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island – 8 episodes (2003);

• OVA Hunter x Hunter: Greed Island Final – 14 episodes (2004).

A new anime adaptation was released in 2011, bringing the franchise its popularity. This remake features a dynamic narrative, improved animation quality, and a plot that more closely follows the original manga. The second adaptation includes:

• Hunter x Hunter – 148 episodes (2011-2014);

• Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission (2013);

• Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge (2013).

Recommended Watching Order for 'Hunter x Hunter'

There are different ways to watch Hunter x Hunter. The second anime adaptation is closer to the manga and has more episodes, so it is recommended that you start with the 2011 version.

However, if you are a fan of old animation and want to experience the nostalgia of the 90s series, the 1999 anime adaptation is perfect, but be aware that the plot is unfinished.

Below is the recommended order for watching the 2011 version:

• Episodes 1-21: Hunter Exam Arc;

• Episodes 22-26: Zoldyck Family Arc;

• Episodes 27-36: Heaven's Arena Arc;

• Episodes 37-58: Yorknew City Arc;

• Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge;

• Episodes 59-75: Greed Island Arc;

• Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission;

• Episodes 76-136: Chimera Ant Arc;

• Episodes 137-148: Election Arc.