Reader’s Question:
I’ve just started watching the Hunter x Hunter anime, and I’m unsure about the best order to watch it in. I’ve heard that the original series was left unfinished, so should I start with the newer version? However, I’ve also heard that the original is more enjoyable, and I’m
considering watching it up to where it ends before moving on to the new series. What do you recommend as the best viewing order? I plan to watch all episodes from both versions, but I’m torn about which one to start with. I’m worried that if I watch the more enjoyable one first, I might be disappointed later.
Deciding Between Hunter x Hunter Versions: A Personal Journey
So, I’ve been diving deep into the world of Hunter x Hunter recently, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure! If you’re like me, you might be caught in this whirlwind of opinions about whether to start with the original series or the 2011 reboot. I totally get it—there’s a lot to unpack here. First off, let’s talk about the original series. I remember settling in with a bowl of popcorn, excited to binge-watch the classic episodes. There’s something nostalgic about that older animation style, right? The quirky character designs, the voice acting—especially the iconic portrayal of Hisoka by Hiroki Takahashi—just hit differently. It felt like a wild ride through the late ’90s and early 2000s! I can still hear Takahashi’s voice echoing in my mind, giving that character an edge that was just superb. It was the kind of voice that made you laugh and shiver at the same time! But then, I switched gears and started watching the 2011 version. Wow, what an upgrade! The animation was so crisp it felt like I was seeing everything in HD for the first time. And the way the story flowed was just…beautiful. The pacing felt more aligned with the manga, which was refreshing. I found myself getting lost in the story, not to mention the character development was spot on. It’s like the creators took everything that worked from the original and polished it, making it shine even brighter. But here’s where it gets tricky. From what I’ve gathered, many fans suggest watching the original up to the Yorknew City arc, then switching to the 2011 version for the Greed Island arc and beyond. I can see the appeal in that! It’s like savoring the best of both worlds. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that switching voice actors mid-way might throw me off. I mean, can you get used to a new Hisoka? I struggled with that a bit, transitioning from Takahashi’s flamboyant style to the more subdued performance by Noriaki Sugiyama. It felt like changing the lead singer of my favorite band halfway through a concert! In the end, I decided to stick with one version at a time. I started with the 2011 series, and after falling in love with it, I’m now curious to see how the original handles those early arcs. It’s like reading a book and then watching the movie adaptation—you get to appreciate both for what they bring to the table. But let me tell you, it’s not all smooth sailing! I learned the hard way that arriving too early for a binge session means you end up snacking way too much, and suddenly, I’m halfway through a pack of chips before even hitting play! If you’re in the same boat, I’d say trust your gut. If you feel drawn to the original, go for it! If the newer version appeals to you more, dive right in. At the end of the day, both series have their charm, and I think it really comes down to personal taste. So, what about you? Have you watched both versions? Which one did you prefer, and why? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you might have for navigating this complex world of Hunter x Hunter!
