Hunter X Hunter vs. Naruto: Manga and Anime debut comparison

“Naruto, renowned as one of the most popular manga and anime franchises of all time, owes much of its success to a multitude of influences that have shaped the series into what it is today. Its author, Masashi Kishimoto, drew upon a rich tapestry of sources, including Japanese myths and history, to craft the world of Naruto. However, amidst the immense praise, there has been an ongoing controversy surrounding the series in relation to another beloved shonen manga: Hunter X Hunter.

Yoshihiro Togashi’s magnum opus, Hunter X Hunter, has often been juxtaposed and compared to Naruto, with some individuals accusing Kishimoto of borrowing numerous concepts from Togashi’s work. The burning question at the heart of the debate is: which series was released first, and how did this influence the other?

Hunter X Hunter precedes Naruto by a year Hunter X Hunter, a manga series written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi, garnered significant attention due to the author’s previous success with the 90s hit series Yu Yu Hakusho, which also received a successful anime adaptation. However, it was Hunter X Hunter, published by Shueisha in March 1998, that became Togashi’s most celebrated work.

In contrast, Naruto began its publication journey under Shueisha in September 1999, more than a year after Togashi’s manga hit the shelves. This fact unequivocally settles the debate regarding which series debuted first. Nevertheless, the more intriguing discussion revolves around the reasons behind the existence of this question.

While Hunter X Hunter enjoys considerable popularity and boasts a global fanbase, there is no denying that Naruto has achieved even greater success. This stark contrast has led fans to explore Togashi’s work and identify intriguing similarities that raise the question of whether these resemblances were mere coincidences, intentional homages, or outright plagiarism.

Exploring the similarities The numerous parallels between the two series have fueled extensive debates on the blurred boundaries between plagiarism and inspiration.

One of the most notable instances involves the character Sasuke Uchiha, who bears striking similarities to two Hunter X Hunter protagonists, Kurapika and Killua Zoldyck. Kurapika, the last survivor of the Kurta clan known for their distinct red eyes, shares resemblances with Sasuke, while Killua has a troubled relationship with his malevolent older brother, mirroring Sasuke’s own struggles. Familiar, isn’t it?

Additionally, the Akatsuki organization in Naruto exhibits remarkable similarities to the Phantom Troupe in Hunter X Hunter. Both groups are formed by notorious criminals and outcasts, and each possesses a member (Deidara and Hisoka) whose purpose is to challenge and confront another member (Itachi and Chrollo, respectively).

The profound friendship between Hunter X Hunter’s protagonists, Gon Freecss and Killua, with Gon embodying a cheerful and somewhat naïve nature and Killua exuding a cold, reserved, and analytical demeanor, bears an uncanny resemblance to the dynamic between Naruto and Sasuke. In both cases, the characters inspire and influence each other’s growth and development.

Furthermore, the Hunter Exam in Hunter X Hunter shares resemblances with Naruto’s Chunin Exam. The former precedes the latter and features a similar structure that tests participants’ cunning, survival skills, and culminates in a final round of one-on-one battles. These are just a few examples of the myriad of similarities between the two series, with Hunter X Hunter undeniably setting the precedent.

Final thoughts It is undeniable that Naruto draws inspiration from Hunter X Hunter, considering the latter’s earlier release. Kishimoto himself, a fan of Togashi’s work, has openly expressed admiration for it. For instance, the Nine-Tails Fox in Naruto is named Kurama, after the character from Yu Yu Hakusho who also happens to be a demon fox. The influence is palpable, and Kishimoto readily acknowledges it.

However, as both series progressed, Naruto developed its own distinct storylines, themes, and character arcs, diverging significantly from Hunter X Hunter. Fans, in the end, are the fortunate beneficiaries, as they have the opportunity to enjoy two exceptional series, each with its own merits and unique contributions to the world of manga and anime.”

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