How to Watch Hunter x Hunter Anime: The Definitive 2025 Guide

recommendation

🧭 The Complete Watch Order Guide for HUNTER×HUNTER (Updated for 2025)

Let’s get straight to the point: If you’re new to HUNTER×HUNTER, start with the 2011 version!
After that, if you’re curious, you can explore the 1999 version, the OVAs, and the movies for a deeper dive. Watching everything in order really enhances the emotional impact and character arcs!

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • ✅ The recommended watch order for all HUNTER×HUNTER anime (2011 version, 1999 version, OVAs, and movies)
  • ✅ Highlights and key reasons why each version is worth watching
  • ✅ Streaming availability as of 2025 (both domestic and international platforms)

Perfect for first-time viewers and long-time fans alike — this guide will help you enjoy the series without any confusion or wasted time! 🎓
Wondering things like “Where do I start?” or “Are the movies important?” Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!


🔍 What Is HUNTER×HUNTER About?

Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, HUNTER×HUNTER is a legendary battle-fantasy anime full of adventure, emotion, and brilliant strategy.
It follows a young boy named Gon as he sets out to become a Hunter — an elite explorer licensed to go anywhere and do anything.

Along the way, he meets unforgettable friends and faces powerful enemies in a story that blends action, intelligence, and heart.

🧭 Ultimate HUNTER×HUNTER Anime Watch Order (2025 Edition)

Whether you’re brand-new to HUNTER×HUNTER or coming back for a nostalgic rewatch, this guide covers everything — including the 1999 classic, the 2011 reboot, OVAs, and movies. Here’s the ideal order to enjoy the story to its fullest 👇

No.TitleTypeYear(s)Episodes/LengthWhy Watch It Here?
HUNTER×HUNTER (2011 version)TV Anime2011–2014148 episodes🟢 The best place to start! This reboot covers the entire main story beautifully, with modern animation and faithful pacing. Perfect for first-time viewers.
HUNTER×HUNTER (1999 version)TV Anime1999–200162 episodes🟡 More old-school charm with a darker tone. If you’re curious about how the series was first animated (and love 90s anime vibes), this is a must! Think of it as an alternate experience.
OVA: Yorknew City Final ArcOVA20028 episodes🔥 Continues directly from the 1999 version. Watch this if you’re following the classic path — it completes the Yorknew City arc in a dramatic and emotional way!
OVA: Greed IslandOVA20038 episodes🎮 The adventure shifts into a video game world! It’s super fun to watch Gon and Killua evolve as fighters. Starts the Greed Island arc.
OVA: Greed Island FinalOVA200414 episodes🧠 Ends the Greed Island story with intense battles and major character growth. If you’ve made it this far in the 1999 route, you’ll love the payoff here.
Movie: Phantom RougeMovieJan 201397 minutes👁️ Focuses on Kurapika’s tragic past and revenge. It’s an emotional ride and fits nicely after the Yorknew arc. Optional, but really deepens your bond with the characters.
Movie: The LAST MISSIONMovieDec 201398 minutes🥊 Set after Greed Island, this one takes place in Heaven’s Arena. It’s pure shounen action with some great moments for Gon, Killua, and even Netero! Not canon, but enjoyable.

💡 Why This Order Works So Well

  • Start with the 2011 reboot if you’re new — it’s polished, complete, and captures the heart of the manga without interruptions. You’ll get the full emotional arc, especially in the Chimera Ant and Election arcs.
  • The 1999 version + OVAs are great if you want to explore a different artistic take or re-experience early arcs with unique atmosphere. The music, voice acting, and pacing are very different — in a good way.
  • Movies are optional but rewarding. They’re not necessary to understand the main plot, but if you’ve grown attached to characters like Kurapika or Gon & Killua’s bond, they hit surprisingly hard. Watch them after the corresponding arcs for maximum impact.

✨ Personal Tip

“Watching the 2011 series first gave me the full emotional rollercoaster. Then I went back to the 1999 version and was blown away by how different — and sometimes even more intense — some moments felt. It’s like seeing an alternate universe of your favorite story!”

📺 HUNTER×HUNTER Streaming Availability – Which VOD is Best for a Binge Watch?

Here’s the current streaming availability of HUNTER×HUNTER as of April 2025.

🔍 Legend:

  • ⭕ = Available with subscription (unlimited streaming)
  • ⭐ = Rental only
  • ❌ = Not available

📶 Streaming Status by VOD (April 2025)

VOD ServiceHUNTER×HUNTER (2011 series)Movie: Phantom RougeMovie: The LAST MISSION
dAnime Store
U-NEXT
Abema Premium
Hulu (Japan)
Amazon Prime Video JP
DMM TV

🟩 Recommendation

If you’re planning to binge HUNTER×HUNTER, U-NEXT, Hulu, or DMM TV are your best bets!
Not only do they include the full TV anime series, but also both theatrical movies available for unlimited streaming.

Before watching, please check the latest availability directly on each VOD platform’s website.

🌏 Watching HUNTER×HUNTER via Japanese Streaming Services – What International Fans Should Know

Before diving into Japanese platforms like U-NEXT, dAnime Store, or DMM TV, here are a few key points to keep in mind! 🧭✨

📝 Point💡 What You Need to Know
🔒 Region LockMost Japanese services are geo-blocked. You’ll need a VPN to access them from abroad.
🗣️ Language SettingsInterfaces and subtitles are usually only in Japanese. No English subs or dubs.
💳 Payment MethodsMany services require a Japanese credit card or PayPal. Some accept Apple/Google Pay if set to Japan.
🎮 Account SetupYou may need a Japanese phone number or address for registration. Workarounds exist with Google/Apple logins.
💸 Free TrialsMany platforms (like U-NEXT or DMM TV) offer free trials for new users — perfect for a binge session!
🔁 Subscription Auto-renewalBe sure to cancel in time if you only want to try the free period — otherwise, you’ll be charged automatically.

🌟 Friendly Tips for Overseas Fans:

  • If you’re a big anime fan, exploring Japanese streaming services can give you early access to new content and rare titles not available abroad.
  • Make sure to use a trusted VPN (like NordVPN, Surfshark, etc.) and set your region to Japan.
  • If the language barrier feels intimidating, try using browser extensions like Google Translate to help navigate menus.

🌍 HUNTER×HUNTER (2011) Global Streaming Availability – 2025

PlatformAvailable RegionsSubtitles AvailableDubbed VersionsNotes
NetflixSelect regions (e.g., Switzerland, Pakistan, Canada)English, Spanish, PortugueseEnglish, Spanish, PortugueseNot available in the US or Japan
Hulu (US)United States onlyEnglishEnglishFull 2011 series available
CrunchyrollWorldwide (varies by country)English, Spanish, Portuguese, FrenchEnglishFull 148 episodes, high accessibility
Amazon Prime VideoUS, Canada, India, some EU countriesEnglishNot always availablePartial availability depending on country
PeacockUnited States onlyEnglishEnglishAll six “seasons” available (split format)
FunimationUnited Kingdom, IrelandEnglishEnglishStreaming began in 2020, full dubbed version available
Muse Asia (YouTube)Southeast Asia, South Asia, East AsiaEnglish, HindiHindi (some regions)Free legal streaming, limited by geo-blocking

🔍 Key Points:

  • Best platforms for full access:
    • Crunchyroll (worldwide access, subs & dubs)
    • Hulu (US only, full series)
    • DMM TV / U-NEXT (for Japan, domestic only – not covered here)
  • 🌎 Regional restrictions apply on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube (Muse Asia) — availability depends heavily on your country.
  • 🎧 English dub is most consistently available on Hulu, Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Peacock.
  • 📺 Muse Asia on YouTube is a great free option (with ads) if you live in supported Asian countries.

💖 Highlights & Must-See Moments for Each HUNTER×HUNTER Title (Fan-Favorite Style)

TitleHighlights & Charm Points 💫
HUNTER×HUNTER (2011 version)🌟 A fully polished retelling of the original story!
💥 The Chimera Ant Arc is a soul-shaking masterpiece!
👑 Watching Killua grow and change will destroy your heart in the best way 😭
🎨 Smooth animation + top-tier voice acting = perfection!
HUNTER×HUNTER (1999 version)🌙 Retro, darker vibes that hit different!
🎼 The haunting BGM pulls you deep into the atmosphere
👀 Lots of original episodes = deeper character moments!
🧡 A must-watch for Kurapika stans!
OVA: Yorknew City Final (2002)🕷️ The final showdown with the Phantom Troupe is intense!
🎭 Kurapika’s vengeance arc is raw and emotional
🖤 Gritty, mature storytelling that hits hard!
OVA: Greed Island (2003)🎮 Finally, the game world begins!
💡 Strategic use of Nen + collectible cards = total excitement!
💪 Gon and Killua’s training glow-up is chef’s kiss!
OVA: G・I Final (2004)🔥 The climax of the Greed Island arc!
📈 Major power-ups, epic battles, and mind games galore!
💗 Biscuit’s mentorship and bonding moments = pure love 🥺
Movie: Phantom Rouge (2013)🔴 A must for Kurapika fans!
💎 Dive deep into his tragic past and Phantom Troupe drama
💥 Movie-quality fight scenes and serious emotions!
Movie: The LAST MISSION (2013)⚔️ Netero finally gets the spotlight!
🏟️ Set in Heaven’s Arena with an all-new enemy force
🖤 A thrilling “what if” side story full of dark Hunter lore
🎬 Perfect for fans craving more after the main arcs!

📝 Final Thoughts: Which HUNTER×HUNTER Path Will You Take?

Whether you’re diving into the 2011 reboot for the first time or exploring the nostalgic charm of the 1999 version and OVAs, HUNTER×HUNTER offers an unforgettable journey filled with powerful friendships, mind-blowing battles, and emotional growth.

💡 Here’s the TL;DR recap:

  • Start with the 2011 version for the most complete and modern experience.
  • 🕰️ Want a different flavor? Check out the 1999 version and OVAs for a darker, more emotional tone.
  • 🎬 The movies are optional but enrich the story, especially for Kurapika fans and those who love exploring alternate plots.

No matter the route you choose, you’re in for a wild ride full of Nen, loyalty, heartbreak, and hype.


✨Have a favorite arc or character?
💬 Drop it in the comments or share your watch experience with fellow Hunters!

And if this guide helped you, feel free to bookmark it or share it with a friend who’s just starting their Hunter Exam. 🪄🎣 Let the adventure begin!

✅ Before You Go…

📌 Looking for more watch order guides?
Check out our latest articles on:


📌 Want to support the blog?
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to bookmark it or share it with fellow fans!
And be sure to follow us for more anime watch orders, character deep dives, and fangirl-worthy recommendations. ✨

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where should I start watching HUNTER×HUNTER?

A: Start with the 2011 version! It covers the main story from the beginning through the Election Arc with high-quality animation and faithful adaptation. It’s perfect for newcomers.


Q2: Is the 1999 version worth watching?

A: Absolutely — especially if you love 90s anime or want to explore a different take on the early arcs. The tone is darker and the pacing is more emotional, which many fans love. Consider it a “bonus route” for deeper appreciation!


Q3: Do I need to watch the movies?

A: The two movies (Phantom Rouge and The LAST MISSION) are optional side stories, not essential to the main plot. However, they offer extra character depth — especially for Kurapika and Netero fans!


Q4: Are the OVAs important to the story?

A: If you’re watching the 1999 version, then yes, the OVAs are must-watch as they continue the story from where the TV series ends. If you’re only watching the 2011 version, the OVAs are not necessary.


Q5: Where can I stream HUNTER×HUNTER in English?

A: The 2011 version is available on platforms like Crunchyroll, Hulu (US), Netflix (select countries), and Peacock. Subtitles and English dubs are available on most platforms, but availability may vary by region.


Q6: How many episodes are there in total?

A: The 2011 version has 148 episodes. The 1999 version has 62 episodes, plus 30 OVA episodes (across three series), and 2 movies released in 2013.

コメント

タイトルとURLをコピーしました