Hunter x Hunter: The Anime That Almost Joined the Big Three

The Rise of the Big Three in Anime

The late 2000s marked a golden era for anime enthusiasts. Whether you were rushing home from school to catch the latest Naruto episode, binging Bleach during lockdown, or diving into One Piece after watching the live-action adaptation, chances are you've encountered at least one of the Big Three. These iconic series have left an indelible mark on the anime landscape, captivating audiences worldwide with their compelling storylines and unforgettable characters.

But what if there was a fourth contender that almost changed the entire landscape of this elite group? Enter Hunter x Hunter, a series that came tantalizingly close to joining the ranks of the Big Three. Let's delve into the fascinating story of how this beloved anime nearly reshaped the anime world as we know it.

What Defines the Big Three?

Before we explore Hunter x Hunter's near-miss with greatness, it's crucial to understand what exactly constitutes the Big Three. Contrary to popular belief, this isn't a subjective list of favorite anime series. The Big Three is a specific term coined by Shonen Jump, the comic publication behind these monumental series, to describe the three most successful and influential manga during the mid-2000s Shonen golden age.

The criteria for being part of the Big Three are as follows:

1. The series must have originated in the late '90s to early 2000s.
2. It must have achieved great success and exerted significant influence in the anime and manga world.
3. It must be a long-running weekly anime and manga series spanning decades.

Based on these criteria, One Piece, Naruto, and Bleach firmly secured their positions as the Big Three. But how close did Hunter x Hunter come to joining this elite group?

Hunter x Hunter: The Almost Big Four

Hunter x Hunter, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, first appeared in manga form in 1998, with its original anime adaptation following in 1999. This timeline aligns perfectly with the Big Three era, satisfying the first criterion effortlessly.

As for success and influence, Hunter x Hunter has undoubtedly left its mark on the anime and manga world. Its unique power system, complex characters, and unpredictable storylines have garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. The series has inspired countless other works and continues to be a topic of discussion among anime enthusiasts.

However, it's the third criterion where Hunter x Hunter falters. Despite its potential for longevity, the series has been plagued by frequent and extended hiatuses, earning it the nickname "Hiatus x Hiatus" among fans.

The Hiatus Hurdle

To truly appreciate the impact of these hiatuses, let's look at some numbers. While the average manga in Shonen Jump releases about 40 chapters per year, Hunter x Hunter has struggled to produce even 15 chapters annually. This inconsistent release schedule has significantly hindered its progress and popularity.

A visual representation of Hunter x Hunter's release schedule would show a stark contrast between the weeks with new chapters (represented by blue squares) and the weeks without (represented by red squares). The abundance of red squares tells a story of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.

The Root of the Problem

The reason behind these frequent breaks isn't a lack of dedication from the creator. Yoshihiro Togashi, the mastermind behind Hunter x Hunter, has a track record of consistency with his previous work, Yu Yu Hakusho. So, what changed?

The answer lies in the demanding nature of the manga industry in Japan. The relentless pressure to produce weekly chapters took a severe toll on Togashi's health, particularly his back. His condition deteriorated to the point where even basic daily activities became challenging.

This health crisis resulted in the erratic release schedule that has defined Hunter x Hunter for years. It's a tragic situation that has affected both the creator and the fans, leaving everyone to wonder what could have been.

A Hypothetical Hunter x Hunter

Let's indulge in a thought experiment. Imagine a world where Togashi didn't face these health issues, and Hunter x Hunter maintained a consistent release schedule. How might things have been different?

If Hunter x Hunter had matched the output of the Big Three, releasing 40 chapters per year, its trajectory would have been dramatically different. Starting from its debut in 1998, by 2008, it would have amassed 400 chapters - a milestone it only recently reached in our reality after 26 years.

In this alternate timeline, the original anime adaptation might have continued its run, using filler episodes to allow the manga to stay ahead, much like other long-running series. Based on the episode-to-chapter ratios of shows like Bleach and Naruto, this hypothetical Hunter x Hunter anime could have boasted between 350 to 400 episodes by the mid-2000s.

With this consistent output, Hunter x Hunter would have met all the criteria for joining the Big Three. It's not far-fetched to imagine it either expanding the group to a "Big Four" or potentially even replacing one of the existing members.

The Current State of Hunter x Hunter

While it's entertaining to speculate about what could have been, the reality of Hunter x Hunter's situation is what truly matters. Recent developments have given fans a glimmer of hope. Togashi has been active on social media, hinting at the possibility of more regular manga chapters in the future.

However, the anime's future remains uncertain. With no announcements regarding a new season or continuation of the 2011 adaptation, fans may need to turn to the manga to continue their Hunter x Hunter journey.

The Legacy of Hunter x Hunter

Despite not achieving the same level of mainstream success as the Big Three, Hunter x Hunter has carved out its own unique place in anime history. Its influence can be seen in numerous other works, and its dedicated fanbase continues to grow.

The series is renowned for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and the innovative Nen power system. These elements have made Hunter x Hunter a favorite among critics and a source of inspiration for other creators in the industry.

Comparing Power Systems: Nen and Beyond

Speaking of Nen, it's worth noting how this power system stands out even when compared to those in the Big Three. Nen is a complex and versatile system that allows for a wide range of abilities based on a character's personality and specialties.

In contrast, chakra in Naruto, while also versatile, is more standardized across characters. One Piece's Devil Fruits provide unique powers but are more straightforward in their application. Bleach's spiritual powers, while diverse, don't have the same level of personalization as Nen.

This depth and complexity in its power system is just one example of how Hunter x Hunter pushed the boundaries of shonen anime and manga, even if it didn't achieve the same commercial success as the Big Three.

The Impact on the Anime Industry

While Hunter x Hunter may not have joined the Big Three, its impact on the anime industry cannot be overstated. The series has influenced countless other works and has set a high bar for storytelling in shonen anime and manga.

Its approach to character development, where even antagonists are given complex motivations and backstories, has become more common in modern anime. The way it subverts typical shonen tropes has inspired other creators to think outside the box and challenge conventions.

Moreover, Hunter x Hunter's dedicated fanbase has shown that consistent weekly releases aren't the only path to success in the anime world. The series has maintained its popularity despite long hiatuses, proving that quality can sometimes outweigh quantity.

The Future of Hunter x Hunter

As we look to the future, the fate of Hunter x Hunter remains uncertain. While fans eagerly await new chapters and hope for a continuation of the anime, the series' irregular release schedule makes it difficult to predict what's next.

However, the enduring popularity of Hunter x Hunter suggests that whenever new content does arrive, it will be met with enthusiasm. The series has proven its ability to captivate audiences even after long breaks, a testament to the strength of its storytelling and world-building.

Lessons from Hunter x Hunter's Journey

The story of Hunter x Hunter's near-miss with the Big Three offers several lessons for the anime and manga industry:

1. Health is paramount: The toll that creating manga took on Togashi's health highlights the need for better working conditions in the industry.

2. Quality over quantity: Despite its irregular release schedule, Hunter x Hunter has maintained a high standard of quality that keeps fans coming back.

3. Innovative storytelling pays off: The series' willingness to subvert expectations and introduce complex systems like Nen has contributed to its enduring appeal.

4. Fanbase loyalty: The dedication of Hunter x Hunter fans shows that building a strong connection with the audience can help a series weather periods of inactivity.

Conclusion

While Hunter x Hunter may not have officially joined the ranks of the Big Three, its impact on the anime and manga world is undeniable. In many ways, it stands as a testament to what could have been, and perhaps what still could be.

As fans, we can appreciate the unique journey that Hunter x Hunter has taken us on, even if it hasn't followed the traditional path of a long-running shonen series. Its innovative storytelling, complex characters, and dedicated fanbase have secured its place as a beloved classic in the anime world.

Whether or not we see more Hunter x Hunter content in the future, its legacy is already cemented. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the series that almost make it to the top can be just as influential and beloved as those that do.

So, the next time you find yourself discussing the Big Three, spare a thought for Hunter x Hunter - the series that came so close to changing the face of anime history. Who knows? Maybe one day, we'll be talking about the Big Four after all.

Article created from: https://youtu.be/NLo_KB8F7bg?feature=shared