hunter x hunter has a wide cast of characters with unique abilities and personalities, and each of them has their time in the spotlight. However, the most important and central character in the story is Gon Freecs, a young man who dreams of following in his father’s footsteps and becoming a hunter. The story portrays his journey and his tribulations, which become more difficult as he progresses.
As with many shonen protagonists, Gon grows throughout his journey in terms of physical strength and mental toughness. His idealistic outlook is often challenged by powerful and ruthless enemies, some of whom leave a lasting impact on him. However, Gon stands out for always standing up and being willing to face any challenge. His dedication and determination stand out even among his fellow hunters.
8
Stole Hisoka’s badge
He took advantage of a unique opportunity
The hunter exam was not kind to Gon, as he often faced the toughest challenges. When the remaining candidates were sent to an island where they had to steal a badge from their competitor, Gon’s target was Hisoka, the strongest candidate at the time with no hope of defeating him beforehand.
However, Gon took Hisoka by surprise after masking himself with Hisoka’s aura and tracking him down. When his target was distracted, Gon threw out a fishing rod and grabbed the badge from under Hisoka’s nose. It was an honest victory, and although Hisoka had the chance to claim it, he allowed Gon to keep the badge.
7
Withstood Hanzo’s beating
He defended his principles
In the final phase of the hunter exam, participants faced each other in a competition where one had to make the other admit defeat to win, with everything allowed except killing the opponent. Gon faced Hanzo, a talented warrior who easily bested the boy in battle, but Gon did not want to admit defeat.
This put Hanzo in a difficult situation as he had no choice but to torment Gon even more. However, Gon kept up his resistance by trying his best to hold his ground and refused to surrender to Hanzo. This led to the latter breaking Gon’s arm, which was insufficient to deter him from fighting for victory.
6
Mastered his Nen skills
He became a charmer
Heaven’s Arena is a place in Hunter x Hunter universe where dedicated warriors can test the limits of their strength and face incredibly strong opponents. Gon sought to hone his skills there, but he and Killua quickly realized that they wouldn’t get very far without Nen. This almost caused them to lose their place, but fortunately they had a mentor.
A man named Wing helped the two children develop their potential and control their new abilities. Gon mastered the power of the incantation, which he used frequently in the upcoming battles. They didn’t have time to learn slowly, so Gon and Killua agreed to use a faster way to master Nen, which was extremely dangerous, but they survived.
5
He punched Hisoka.
He returned the favor
Ever since Hisoka humiliated Gon during the hunter exam, the boy sought revenge. He remembered Hisoka’s words and that he could give him back the badge when Gon punched Hisoka. This loss made Gon feel inadequate for the rest of the exam, but it increased Gon’s determination and led him to the Sky Arena.
He meets Hisoka among the combatants and gets him to accept a match after Gon has trained enough and defeated enough opponents in the Arena. Eventually, the two faced off, and although it was an incredibly challenging battle for Gon, he managed to succeed and hit Hisoka, much to the latter’s joy.
4
Escaped from the ghost company
Dangerous criminals survived
The Phantom Troupe is one of the most dangerous organizations in the universe of Hunter x Hunter. They are known to be ruthless bounty hunters and assassins, and are responsible for exterminating the Kurta clan. However, Kurapika is not the only one dealing with them, as Gon and Killua had to deal with several members simultaneously.
Gon and Killua were in New Town, meeting with Leorio, searching for the Greed Island game. They spy on the Phantom Troupe and are captured and interrogated. At this time, Killua and Gon are unaware of Kurapika’s recent activity against them, but they manage to escape the Phantom Troupe and later help their friend against the group.
3
Defeated the bomber
He triumphed in the game of greed island
During the Greed Island arc, Gon truly felt like he was about to finally meet his father, which made him even more dedicated to his quest. He and Killua end up training under the supervision of Biscuit Kruger, a very tough but talented teacher. They also faced a villain who would do anything to win the game: the Bomber.
The Bomber would manipulate and threaten countless game participants to collect as many cards as possible, but he underestimated Gon. While Biscuit and Killua faced the Bomber’s accomplices, Gon faced the villain himself. He triumphed, giving the Bomber a severe beating but sparing his life and refusing to become a murderer.
2
He stood alone in a war
Fought against chimera ants
The Chimera Ant arc is undoubtedly the most challenging period for Gon and many other characters. Instead of discovering his father, Gon encounters Kite, who is about to launch a war against the chimera ants that are spreading across the continent. Gon and Killua agree to help him, although they soon face the harsh reality of the conflict.
Despite his initial failure, Gon passed the test with Knuckle and Shoot, earning his place in battle against the Chimera Ant King and his royal guards, who were among the strongest creatures on the continent. Gon participated in infiltrating the palace and fighting against the royal guards, repeatedly risking his life.
1
Neferpitou defeated
Killed a royal guard
Arguably his most impressive and at the same time ruthless achievement is how he dealt with Neferpitou, a royal guard who killed Kite. First, Gon forces her to try to cure her friend, but after they both realize that it is impossible and that he is doomed, Gon enters a state of primal, uncontrollable rage.
This led to Gon overpowering Pitou in a battle while using all of his powers to become a stronger version of himself. Neferpitou was a powerful opponent who once stoked fear in Gon’s heart, and triumphing over her shows just how much of a warrior he has become. However, she also demonstrates her recklessness and desperation, as after all the energy she expended, Gon fell into a prolonged coma.