I loved this anime; the plot, characters and overall anime was amazing; which left me confused when I learned that a lot of my fellow anime watchers didn't like it; and one of the main reason was that 'it looked childish,' and can I just confirm that, this anime is far from it!
Story:
I don't want to spoil anyone, so this bit may come across a little vague; but I'll try my best! Anyway, the story line was great, as far as I know, there wasn't any glaringly obvious plot holes and the plotline was beautifully developed. Compared to other ~long~ animes (animes which have over 50 episodes) all episodes were relevant and didn't contain much 'filler' episodes; or at least, that's what it felt like. The main story line never diverged and kept true to its main point which was, the protagonist, 'Gon' trying to find his father. As with most animes, there are also sub-plots and the subplots were also masterfully done; they were never too 'powerful' that it feels like the main 'quest' have been forgotten; they were enjoyable, yet, to the point.
Going back to the 'childish' thing going on, it is far from it; the anime as a whole is gripping and is very dark; (quite similar to Puella Madoka Magica, where the art style may seem bright and friendly; but the plot is a monster of feels and tears and anything in between). It is a great balance of light-hearted as we see the characters build close bonds with each other, to the comedic antics of other characters to the sorrowful and regrettable deaths of some. To those of you who are seeking romance, well, there is also romance in there.
In all honestly, one of the main reasons for my confusion as to why Hunter X Hunter isn't as popular as other animes (such as Naruto, One Piece and Bleach) is the plot. Hunter X Hunter's plot is ultimately told better, clearer and with much more catharsis than others I know. It has all the elements in it and memorable characters that a fantastic anime needs and a good plotline to boot without too much fan service (there are some, but not overwhelmingly so, that it ruins the show) It is immersive and will leave you speechless.
Art:
So, the art... I believe the art is one of the reasons, many 'modern' otakus out there tend to scroll by due to the fact that the front cover conveys a very sweet, bright and happy anime; in which all Hunter X Hunter watchers know that it isn't true.
The dynamic art style creates a great contrast between its 'happy' episodes and episodes where there is carnage everywhere; which , for me, creates a stronger impact when one watches it.
Before, someone questions me about it, yes. Yes I have seen the 1999 version of the anime; and it's also good, however, I do prefer the 2011 version. In all honesty, the anime is just as good either versions; so, go for the art style you prefer! The only reason (and it can be seen as quite silly, I know) that I prefer the 2011 version is probably that the characters' eyes are more defined and I find that incredibly alluring and absolutely beautiful.
Sound:
I'm going to be honest with you here, I'm a 'watch the opening songs and ending songs once and skip it after that' kind of watcher; so, I don't really have much to say on this topic, however, for the times I've heard it, I actually liked it and I usually don't pay mind to most anime songs. the use of music while watching the episodes are done well and match the atmosphere of whatever the character is doing at the time.
Characters:
Oh my gosh! I can not emphasize enough how wonderful the characters are! First of all, there is a plethora of characters which are well-developed and break the most of the character tropes. The intense, complicated backstories alone is enough to hook you in.
The characters' aesthetics are drawn wonderfully, but the personalities that go with these faces are on another stupendous level. The way the protagonists develop and affect each other is slow, yet fluid. There's no rush nor is there any 'unnatural', suddenly-this-happened-and-I-don't-know-how things occurring during character developments.
All characters have a role and all of them are relevant. Even the villains. And for me, that's rare.
In most animes I've watched, villains are usually just there to be villains; there usually isn't any development on their part; once evil. always evil. In the case of Hunter X Hunter, however, the villains are gloriously well-developed and it is obvious that they are well thought out. before watching this, there wasn't a single villain that I didn't want to get killed as they are usually very two dimensional; however, this series had THE villain. The villain that you knew has their faults and will probably deserve the death that comes to them, but then, something happens and, dear Oedipus, suddenly; you just want to desperately save them! (y'all know who I'm talking about...)
I feel as if I don't have enough eloquence to tell you how amazing these characters are, but, they are amazing! Don't just take my word for it, watch it!!
As for the rating...The ONLY reason I gave this a '9' is that, I felt as if my favourite character didn't have enough screen time; but then again, he's kinda like an anti-hero so, maybe it isn't as unjustified as I think it is.
Enjoyment:
Enjoyment? Are you kidding me? For me, this was a masterpiece!!!! Even without the popcorn, hotdogs and candy I managed to consume during I watched it; and that's saying a lot! I like my food, ya know?
In all seriousness though, It's gripping and immersive. the amount of empathy, sorrow and laughter you'll share with these characters will be unreal. let me tell you now, that this is the only anime I have watched and actually cried over a character. That's saying a lot! I don't cry. Ever. Well, at least not when watching something.
Overall:
I love it. It's one of those 'classics,' ya know? It never gets old and will never get old. I still think that this should have a greater fan base and I will be forever confused and shocked as to why it doesn't. It is definitely in my top 10 and possibly top 5 and I'm not easily impressed.
Definitely has a high 're-watch' rating as I've re-watched this at least 5 times already. It's one of those go-to animes when you want something good and familiar and something that you know won't let you down.
I recommend it to everyone; especially if you have good taste in anime. ;)
