Yoshihiro Togashi's Hunter x Hunter incredibly rich-in-detail and massive universe is trending once again, thanks to the release of Hunter x Hunter Chapter 401 on October 7, 2024. The release marks the end of a nearly two-year hiatus, bringing renewed excitement to its global fanbase. This long-awaited chapter is part of the ongoing Succession Contest Arc, where key characters like Kurapika are embroiled in a tense battle of survival and strategy aboard the Black Whale, all while inching closer to the mysterious Dark Continent.
This return of Hunter x Hunter offers the perfect storm for the franchise to release that fighting video game, initially slated for a release in 2024. Firstly, the hype surrounding the manga's comeback presents a golden opportunity to capitalize on fan engagement. Secondly, while it’s understandable that a large-scale game right out of the box might not be an outright possibility, pushing buttons on the one already in the works could get the fire started.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact DLC Wishlist
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact's launch roster exceeded expectations, although there are still characters who should join the fray through DLC.
A Hunter x Hunter Game is Already in the Works
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact, a highly anticipated fighting game, was originally scheduled for release in 2024 but has now been delayed to 2025. This game, developed by Eighting and published by Arc System Works, promises a rich fighting experience featuring a 3v3 combat system where players will be able to use the intricate Nen abilities seen in the series. An official reveal trailer for the game was also released back in January 2024.
The delay was made to ensure the game implements a rollback netcode and improves its online gameplay quality. This adaptation is the first major Hunter x Hunter game in recent years, and it's a clear sign that developers are aware of the franchise's massive potential.
Theorizing the Next Step: A Larger-Scale RPG or MMORPG
While Nen x Impact will undoubtedly excite fans of fighting games and has kept them on the hook for a while now, the Hunter x Hunter universe offers such a vast array of stories and locations that it seems great even for an open-world RPG or MMORPG. Utilizing the current hype, the franchise could fire up discussions about utilizing Hunter x Hunter’s complex Nen system for ripe game mechanics that allow players to choose their Nen type and create individualized strategies based on their chosen category (Enhancement, Emission, Manipulation, etc.).
An MMORPG, for instance, could let players take on the role of custom Hunters, and help them explore the world in teams while training Nen abilities and taking the famed Hunter Exam. A game of this scope would not only tap into the existing multi-generational fanbase but also engage new players attracted by the depth and tactical richness of the Hunter x Hunter world.
Benefiting From Fan Engagement and Cross-Promotion Opportunities
Given the ongoing success of anime-inspired video games like Dragon Ball FighterZ and Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles, there is clearly a market for quality anime-based games. With Nen x Impact on the way and Hunter x Hunter trending again, it could be a good idea for the franchise to begin exploring other gameplay formats in the future that cater to the expansive storytelling possibilities that Hunter x Hunter provides. On top of it all, cross-promotional activities with the manga could help keep the excitement alive even if the game comes out at its designated delayed release date.
While Nen x Impact’s delay to 2025 may be disappointing for some, it’s a necessary step to ensure that the game lives up to its full potential. This delay also allows time for fans to enjoy Chapter 401 and continue theorizing about what other gaming experiences could be built around the Hunter x Hunter universe. While nothing more is confirmed as of yet in the gaming space, Yoshihiro Togashi's intricate world and mechanics deserve that the franchise evolves beyond just manga and fighting games, possibly into even more immersive formats.
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 58 /100 Critics Rec: 8%
- Released
- July 17, 2025
- ESRB
- T For Teen // Blood and Gore, Language, Partial Nudity, Use of Tobacco, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Eighting
- Publisher(s)
- Arc System Works, BushiRoad
WHERE TO PLAY
The first full-scale HUNTER×HUNTER fighting game is here!
3v3 Nen ability team battle
Create teams of characters to face off in 3-on-3 battles.
Find a combination with synergy, and aim for the top with your own unique team!
Rush combo
Just hold down the rush button and hit the button repeatedly to unleash powerful combos!
Feel the exhilarating rush of pulling off a combo with ease!
Online battle
Face off against other players across the network to win rank points.
Your rank updates as you accumulate points. Aim to become a “three-star hunter”!
You can even compete with "G.I. Cards" at stake! Gather the cards for the specified slots!
Story mode
Battle against CPU opponents as you enjoy a digest of beloved Hunter x Hunter moments!
This mode includes tutorial stages, so try it out first to understand the basics of how to play!
- Franchise
- Hunter X Hunter
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5
- Genre(s)
- Fighting, Anime
