Hunter x Hunter: Analyzing the Genius of the Hunter Exam Arc

The Hunter Exam arc of Hunter x Hunter is often overlooked as just the introductory arc of the series. However, a closer analysis reveals it to be a masterclass in shonen manga storytelling and character development. Let's break down what makes this arc so special and why it laid such a strong foundation for the rest of the series.

The Importance of a Strong Start

For any serialized manga, especially in a competitive weekly magazine like Shonen Jump, the first few chapters are crucial. The author needs to:

• Introduce the main characters and their motivations
• Establish the world and its rules
• Showcase what makes the series unique
• Hook readers and make them want to come back week after week

All of this needs to be done while keeping the target audience in mind - which for Shonen Jump ranges from elementary school kids to adults. It's an incredibly difficult balancing act, but Hunter x Hunter manages to pull it off brilliantly.

Pacing and Story Structure

One of the most impressive aspects of the Hunter Exam arc is its pacing. The story moves at a breakneck speed, constantly introducing new elements and challenges. Let's break down the structure:

Chapter 1: Introducing Gon

• Establishes Gon's character and his motivation to become a Hunter
• Introduces the concept of Hunters and hints at the wider world
• Shows Gon's determination and unique abilities

Chapters 2-3: Meeting Leorio and Kurapika

• Introduces two major supporting characters
• Establishes their personalities and hints at their backstories
• Shows the dangers of the Hunter world

Chapters 4-5: Navigating to the Exam Site

• Introduces the idea that becoming a Hunter is extremely difficult
• Shows Gon's intuition and problem-solving skills
• Builds tension for the exam itself

Chapters 6-10: The First Phase

• Introduces a large cast of secondary characters
• Establishes the physical demands of being a Hunter
• Shows the different motivations and personalities of the applicants

This rapid-fire introduction of new elements keeps readers engaged and wanting more. It's a perfect example of how to start a long-running series.

Character Development

While the pacing is fast, Togashi doesn't neglect character development. He uses clever techniques to flesh out the characters without slowing down the story:

Gon

• Actions speak louder than words - Gon's personality is shown through his choices and behaviors
• Reactions of others - Other characters' surprise at Gon's abilities helps establish him as special
• Gradual reveals - Information about Gon's father and background is parceled out slowly

Kurapika and Leorio

• Contrasting personalities - Their arguments help define both characters
• Hints at deeper motivations - We know they have reasons for becoming Hunters, but the full story isn't revealed yet
• Growth through challenges - We see how they adapt to the exam's difficulties

Killua

• Air of mystery - His abilities and background are hinted at but not fully explained
• Friendship with Gon - Their relationship helps humanize Killua and show a different side of him
• Moments of darkness - Brief glimpses of Killua's darker nature create intrigue

The Exam Structure

The Hunter Exam itself is brilliantly designed to showcase different aspects of what it means to be a Hunter. Each phase tests different skills:

Phase 1: Endurance and Determination

• Tests physical fitness and mental fortitude
• Weeds out those who aren't serious about becoming Hunters

Phase 2: Adaptability and Knowledge

• Requires applicants to think creatively
• Shows the importance of diverse skills for Hunters

Phase 3: Teamwork and Problem-Solving

• Forces applicants to work together despite being competitors
• Tests their ability to think under pressure

Phase 4: Survival and Strategy

• Combines physical challenges with mental games
• Introduces a more competitive element

Phase 5: Combat and Resolve

• Tests fighting ability and determination
• Explores the psychological aspects of being a Hunter

This structure allows Togashi to explore different facets of his characters and the Hunter world without ever feeling repetitive.

Subverting Expectations

One of the most impressive aspects of the Hunter Exam arc is how it constantly subverts reader expectations. Some examples:

• The exam starts before applicants even reach the official site
• Many challenges are solved through wit rather than combat
• The final phase is a test of resolve rather than a tournament
• Characters like Hisoka and Illumi are introduced but their true natures aren't fully revealed

This keeps readers on their toes and helps Hunter x Hunter stand out from other shonen series.

World-Building Through Showing, Not Telling

Togashi does an excellent job of hinting at the larger world of Hunter x Hunter without overwhelming readers with information. We learn about:

• The prestige and privileges of being a Hunter
• The existence of powerful and mysterious beings (like Hisoka)
• The diversity of Hunter specializations (Gourmet Hunters, Blacklist Hunters, etc.)
• The potential dangers in the world (Magical Beasts, criminal organizations, etc.)

All of this is woven naturally into the story, creating intrigue and making readers want to learn more.

Themes and Morality

While the Hunter Exam arc is primarily focused on action and adventure, Togashi begins to introduce some of the deeper themes that will be explored later in the series:

• The nature of strength and what it means to be strong
• The morality of the Hunter Association and its exam
• The different reasons people seek power and status
• The importance of friendship and teamwork

These themes are subtly introduced, laying the groundwork for more complex explorations later on.

Humor and Tone

Despite the high stakes and sometimes dark moments, the Hunter Exam arc maintains a sense of fun and adventure. Togashi balances tense moments with humor, often through:

• Gon's naive and straightforward reactions
• Leorio's outbursts
• The absurdity of some exam challenges
• Quirky secondary characters like Tonpa

This helps keep the tone from becoming too heavy and maintains the sense of excitement and discovery.

Visual Storytelling

While Togashi's art style in the early chapters isn't as refined as it would later become, he still shows a strong grasp of visual storytelling:

• Character designs are distinct and memorable
• Action scenes are clear and easy to follow
• Facial expressions convey a lot of emotion and personality
• Page layouts guide the reader's eye and control pacing

He also isn't afraid to use unconventional techniques, like text-heavy pages to convey complex thoughts or strategies.

Setting Up Future Arcs

Perhaps most impressively, the Hunter Exam arc lays the groundwork for many future storylines and character developments:

• Gon's search for his father
• Kurapika's quest for revenge
• Killua's struggle with his family and identity
• The nature of Nen (though not named yet)
• The corruption within the Hunter Association
• The existence of dangerous criminals like the Phantom Troupe

All of these elements are subtly introduced or hinted at, creating a rich foundation for the rest of the series.

Conclusion

The Hunter Exam arc is far more than just an introduction to the world of Hunter x Hunter. It's a masterfully crafted story that:

• Introduces compelling characters
• Establishes a fascinating world
• Subverts shonen manga tropes
• Balances action, strategy, and character development
• Sets up numerous future storylines

By the end of the arc, readers are fully invested in the characters and eager to see where their journeys will take them next. It's a testament to Togashi's skill as a storyteller and helps explain why Hunter x Hunter has become such a beloved and influential series.

While later arcs may be more complex or thematically rich, the Hunter Exam arc shouldn't be overlooked. It lays the foundation for everything that follows and remains an excellent example of how to start a long-running manga series. For aspiring manga creators or anyone interested in storytelling, it's well worth studying and analyzing in detail.

Article created from: https://youtu.be/EY8Zg3oYOSY?feature=shared