How does Hisoka select his opponents in Hunter x Hunter?

Hisoka Morow, one of the iconic antagonists in Hunter x Hunter, possesses an insatiable thirst for battle. However, the series never clearly defines how and why Hisoka chooses his opponents. On a basic level, Hisoka seeks out strong fighters who can provide him with a satisfying challenge. Yet, there are instances where Hisoka shows little interest in battling individuals who, on paper, should pique his enthusiasm. Conversely, he exhibits curiosity in facing opponents he seemingly shouldn’t want to engage with at all. This raises questions about the exact criteria that determine whether someone would be an appealing adversary for Hisoka.

Hisoka’s desire for battle draws parallels to Goku from Dragon Ball, as his primary motivation is to find and confront formidable opponents. Hisoka himself is a highly skilled fighter with strategic brilliance, and he derives pleasure from facing adversaries who can push him to his limits. One example of an ideal opponent for Hisoka is Chrollo Lucilfer, the leader of the Phantom Troupe and one of the most intelligent and dangerous nen users in the series. Throughout the “Yorknew City” and “Greed Island” arcs, Hisoka endeavors to create the right circumstances for a confrontation with Chrollo. Additionally, Hisoka seeks out the likes of Ging Freecs, Gon’s father, who is renowned as one of the most powerful nen users alive. This demonstrates Hisoka’s relentless pursuit of the strongest fighters.

Hisoka also prefers to face opponents at the peak of their power. He takes a keen interest in Gon Freecs, the protagonist of the series, as he wishes to witness Gon’s boundless potential realized. Despite multiple encounters, Hisoka always spares Gon, believing that his potential has yet to fully manifest. Similarly, during the “Heavens Arena” arc, Hisoka battles Kastro, sparing him years prior for the same reason. Kastro returns as a stronger fighter, pushing Hisoka to his limits before meeting his demise. From these various fights, two consistent criteria emerge for Hisoka’s interest: the fighter must be strong and in their prime before Hisoka deems them worthy of engaging in a battle to the death.

However, there are instances where Hisoka’s actions seem to contradict his usual selection process. When Hisoka encounters Razor and Biscuit Krueger on Greed Island, two of the most powerful fighters in the series, he shows little interest in challenging them. Similarly, during the “Hunter Exam” arc, Hisoka encounters the main quartet of Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio. While Hisoka recognizes the potential for growth in Gon, Killua, and Kurapika, he also spares Leorio’s life and even assists him during an exam. Since Leorio lacks combat prowess and ambition, it is unclear why Hisoka displays such interest in him. What factors influence Hisoka’s actions in these situations?

Regarding Razor, it is possible that Hisoka perceives him as a more formidable opponent than he is willing to handle at that particular moment. Razor’s nen abilities are so potent that he can control an entire island, and if Razor desired, he could have effortlessly dismissed Hisoka’s challenge and sent him away with a Greed Island card. While seeking strong adversaries, Hisoka does not seem inclined to engage in blatantly unwinnable fights. Consequently, he sought to isolate Chrollo from the rest of the Phantom Troupe before confronting him.

Furthermore, during the “Greed Island” arc, Hisoka is intensely focused on finding a nen exorcist who can restore Chrollo’s strength. This may explain his lack of interest in Razor, who could potentially eliminate him before the long-awaited battle with Chrollo. A similar rationale might apply to his decision not to fight Biscuit. Although Biscuit appears in Hisoka’s list of potential opponents later in the series, Greed Island may not have been the ideal time or place for that confrontation in Hisoka’s eyes.

Hisoka’s interest in Leorio could extend beyond his combat potential. During their initial encounter, Leorio displays unwavering determination and loyalty to his friends, which could have impressed Hisoka. Since Hisoka admires Gon for similar qualities, it is possible that he also considers the personalities of the individuals he wishes to fight, in addition to their abilities. Breaking someone’s resolute spirit brings immense pleasure to Hisoka, implying that even a prime Leorio could provide him with a thrill, even if the fight itself might not be the most challenging he has faced.

Based on Hisoka’s interactions with various fighters, we can attempt to deduce his criteria. Hisoka seeks out powerful adversaries at the height of their abilities, as evidenced by his pursuit of Chrollo and Ging, and his decision to spare Gon for the sake of his development. Additionally, Hisoka values a fighter’s attitude, gravitating towards individuals with the confidence and determination to emerge victorious. This explains his interest in Gon, Chrollo, and his reluctance to harm Leorio. Ultimately, Hisoka carefully selects his opponents, taking into account the right conditions for an optimal battle. He is not simply driven by his battle lust, but rather employs a thoughtful process to choose opponents that will provide him with the most exhilarating matches.

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