Hunter x Hunter has often been criticized over the years for its art being sometimes too simple or unrefined, especially after author Yoshihiro Togashi started suffering from serious health issues due to his back. In particular, the Succession War arc has been accused of being overloaded with dialogue due to the author being in no shape to draw.
Chapter #406, however, just proved all the critics wrong, featuring two gorgeous double spreads, which is pretty unusual for Hunter x Hunter in recent years. The chapter is impressive for a few reasons, as fans got revelations about Chrollo's actions, his evolving Nen ability, and more. However, the most impressive has been the art. The first sequence of the Phantom Troupe members walking through the bowels of the Black Whale stuns with the majestic machines and their details. Later, the shot of the crowd at Prince Halkenburg's funeral is equally impressive.
Hunter x Hunter's Art Has Leveled Up Over the Years
The Latest Chapter Is a Sign of Togashi's Improved Health
Truth be said, Hunter x Hunter always had great art, going back to the Hunter Exams arc, which makes sense given Togashi was a veteran who authored Yu Yu Hakusho and Level E. As the years went on, the illustrations became even more breathtaking, with the Chimera Ant arc having some of the best scenes seen in shonen manga. This continued into the Succession War, where the art of the backgrounds became even more detailed and beautiful. The shading, perspective, and presentation were all top-notch, and chapter #406 is proof of that.
While the series has always featured more dialogue than the average manga, the Succession War arc has more dialogue than ever before, leading many to be turned off by this. It's an incredibly complex story to follow, which also made the art take a step back. However, even if the increased word count may have helped Togashi draw less due to his back pains at times, the creator revealed the real reason that the arc has more dialogue is to enhance the characters and make each one stand out. This latest chapter confirms that Togashi's health has been improving, and puts his impressive artwork in the forefront once again.
The Manga's Art Has Always Been Top-Notch
Togashi's Pen Game Is Unmatched
This chapter is a reminder that when the series wants to go all out with the artwork, it does just that. The facial expressions are evocative, the fights are beautifully choreographed, the scenery is breathtaking, the character designs are always diverse and amazing, and the presentation is fabulous. Hunter x Hunter masterfully weaves between very simple drawings and some of the best art in manga, and this style of drawing is one reason the series is so interesting and unique.
The last six chapters that have been released are easily the best that fans have seen in many years. Firstly, the series is going at an incredible pace, and it definitely won't be too long until fans can witness the climax of the arc. Furthermore, the fact that it doesn't feel rushed or forced is incredible, as the plot lines and developments all feel natural. This makes sense given how long the creator took to set up everything and prepare for what is happening.
Chapter #401 kicked off with a big bang by revealing that Beyond Netero was the true villain of the arc, and it was only better from there. There were some very huge developments, such as Halkenburg's "death", Chrollo's plans in the Succession War, Melody and Kacho's plans to kill Luzurus, Zhang-Lei's real power, and many more fascinating developments that made the two-year wait worth it.
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Hunter x Hunter Just Teased the Most Unexpected Resolution For Kurapika and the Phantom Troupe
Hunter x Hunter's latest chapter hinted at a possible development that could completely change the dynamic between Kurapika and Chrollo.
Another great thing about these latest chapters is that the threads are being woven together in a way that makes sense. The Phantom Troupe plot line is finally connected with the Succession War by having Chrollo try to steal the Kakin treasures, the Mafia plot line now makes more sense as it affects the Succession War with the potential of martial law, and Beyond Netero's master plan is affecting the war greatly. The number of storylines made fans worry about how they would all be connected and if Togashi could handle it, but as demonstrated, there is no need to worry.
Hunter x Hunter has never been better and there is no better time than now to be a reader of the legendary series. The creator has revealed how his health has improved and how he can finally draw while sitting on a chair, and the results speak for themselves. Furthermore, he is very hard at work and has done his part in 23 chapters, and aims to finish 30 chapters before the end of the year. Fans of the series can rejoice in knowing that what they have seen since the return of Hunter x Hunter is just the beginning, and they can expect more similar or even higher quality as the weeks go on.
Hunter X Hunter
Hunter × Hunter is a Japanese manga and anime franchise created by Yoshihiro Togashi. The story follows Gon Freecss, a boy who discovers his father is a legendary Hunter, and embarks on a journey to become one himself. Along the way, he encounters friends and foes in a world filled with martial arts, adventure, and paranormal elements. The franchise spans manga, multiple anime adaptations, films, OVAs, and video games.
Created by Yoshihiro Togashi
First Episode Air Date October 16, 1999
Video Game(s) Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact
English (US) ·