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With edge-of-your-seat battle scenes, breath-taking twists, and meticulous character development- there are many reasons why fans want more anime like Hunter x Hunter. It’s been one of the most popular and well-loved series for over two decades!

With its humble beginning as a manga first published in 1998, Hunter x Hunter gained immense popularity and was adapted into an anime in 1999. The first anime series ran for 2 years and had 62 episodes. 

To keep anime fans intrigued, there were numerous OVAs released in the early 2000s which eventually led to the creation of the re-boot Hunter x Hunter anime that began airing in 2011. Beginning from the start, this series aired for 3 years for a total of six seasons and 148 episodes. There have also been several movies, video games, and even two Hunter x Hunter musicals released. The original manga is still being published, although it is currently on hiatus. 

A new season of the Hunter x Hunter anime is expected to release in 2020 or 2021 that will continue where season 6 concluded back in 2014. However, there is currently very limited information available about the new season and the exact release date is still unknown. 

While we eagerly await updates on the next season, here is a collection of other series from the adventure, fantasy, martial arts, and shounen genres that draw on some of the same themes and will help to tide you over until Hunter x Hunter Season 7. 

Are you ready?

6 Shows Like Hunter x Hunter

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Doctor Stone

Release: 2019 (New season announced for January 2021!)
Episodes: 24

Scientific genius Senku Ishigami finds himself revived in a world where all of humanity had been turned to stone many thousands of years ago. Using his gifted mind, he creates a cure and begins reviving others. Determined to make a new world where science is king, Senku clashes with others who have different plans and would prefer most of humanity to remain frozen in time. 

Hunter x Hunter is well-renowned for the intellectual aspect of its characters and how they combine both their physical abilities and brainpower to come out on top- a theme also found in Doctor Stone. Senku has similar dreams to Gon, as both protagonists fight for the good of all and constantly push their creativity to the limits in order to survive. Both shows will leave you pondering and deep in thought long after each episode is over!

Demon Slayer / Kimetsu no Yaiba

Release: 2019
Episodes: 26

The massacre of their family at the hands of a demon left young Kamado Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko alive but forever altered. The two go on a risky quest to cure Nezuko of her new demon blood, hunt down the villain that destroyed their family, and follow in the footsteps of their mysterious father.

The determination of Gon to do good and pursue his dreams is mirrored in Tanjiro. Like the intense martial art show-downs in Hunter x Hunter, the battle scenes in Kimetsu no Yaiba will have viewers biting down their nails and eager for more! Both stories have a series of interesting twists and turns that pit protagonists against seemingly impossible odds. Viewers will come to love and empathize with Tanjiro, Nezuko, and the other young Demon Slayers just as they fell for Gon, Killua, and the other hunters.

Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Release: 2009 – 2010
Episodes: 64

Edward and Alphonse Elric are brothers who accidentally delved too far into the darkest reaches of alchemy. Carrying the weight of their sin with them, they begin a quest to find the powerful Philosopher’s Stone in hopes that doing so will help them correct the mistakes of their past. 

Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood has a beautiful balance between light-hearted and comedic moments and showing the dark and heavy reality of humanity. Like Hunter x Hunter, this show does not shy away from talking about serious issues but presents them in meaningful and powerful ways that leave a strong impression. Both shows have that magic ability to be watched many times throughout life, and with every run through you will be sure to find new pieces and messages that you didn’t pick up on before! 

Naruto

Release: 2002 – 2007
Episodes: 220

Growing up alone and ostracised, Naruto Uzumaki dreams of one day becoming the Hokage- the leader and protector of his village. He must go to school, train, complete the deadly Chunin Exams, and master ninjutsu in order to someday achieve his dream.

Fans of Gon will find many similarities in Naruto- as both grew up without a fatherly figure and must hone their martial arts abilities to stay alive through many battles. Chakra in Naruto is used and weaponized in a similar way to Nen in Hunter x Hunter, resulting in creative battles with unique superpowers. The significance and support of side characters is equally important in both series, and the pivotal relationship between Naruto and his teammate Sasuke can be compared to the importance of Gon’s relationship with Killua. 

My Hero Academia / Boku no Hero Academia

Release: 2016 – present
Episodes: 88

Despite not having any superpowers of his own, Midoriya Izuku wanted nothing more than to be a hero like his role model All Might- the greatest hero of all time. Through a twist of fate and a lot of hard work, Midoriya is finally able to pursue his dream and attend the prestigious U.A High School where he joins quirky classmates in their quest to become heroes. 

Midoriya and Gon both share a dream to become a hero inspired by a paternal figure in their lives. Protagonists in both series want to protect others while overcoming numerous challenges and not letting their own limitations hold them back. Hunter x Hunter and My Hero Academia share a focus on intriguing battles that involve not only the clashing of flashy powers, but also require the quick-thinking and strategy of the characters involved. Both series share a similar plot of young kids finding their way in the world and developing their abilities through exciting battles. 

D.Gray-man

Release: 2006 – 2008
Episodes: 103

Protagonist Allen Walker joins a secretive group called the Black Exorcists in order to fight against demonic Akuma and protect humanity. Joined by other exorcists and wielding his god-given power of Innocence, Allen travels the world to stop the evil Millenium Earl and the Noah Clan from creating Akuma and wreaking havoc.

Another shounen series with a heavy influence on high-stakes battles, D.Gray-man has a similar atmosphere and comparable characters to Hunter x Hunter. Those who enjoyed the deep bonds between Gon and his companions will delight in how Allen and his close friends develop over the course of the story. A strength of both series is how quickly you will come to care for the protagonists- and how devastated you will be when bad things happen to them.

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If you are ready to scratch the itch left by Gon, Killua, and the other hunters- there are plenty of shows that share similarities and just as thrilling to enjoy! 

Since you finished Hunter x Hunter, what other shows have you been watching? Is there another anime protagonist that reminds you of Gon? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Watching! 🙂