Hunter x Hunter hiatus returns: What’s next for the manga and game

The fans of Hunter x Hunter are once again facing another disappointment as both the manga and the upcoming fighting game adaptation, Hunter × Hunter: Nen × Impact, both have been delayed. The manga has entered another indefinite break following the release of Chapter 410, while the game’s launch has been pushed to July 17, 2025.After a brief return in October 2024, Hunter x Hunter resumed serialization in Weekly Shōnen Jump, offering fans hope for a consistent release schedule after years of interruptions.But this revival was only for a short time. On December 8, 2024, it was officially announced that the manga will once again go on an indefinite break after the release of Chapter 410.These repeated breaks in publication have become somewhat expected among long-time fans of the Hunter x Hunter franchise. The primary reason, as always, is the declining health of series creator Yoshihiro Togashi, who has battled against chronic back disease for years. Whereas readers continue to express their support and concern for Togashi’s well-being, while many remain anxious over the future of the manga, which remains unfinished.In a candid 2023 interview, Togashi acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the series’ completion. He shared that he had prepared four possible endings, depending on how his health progresses, and admitted the story may even conclude in an unconventional format should he be unable to draw the remaining chapters himself.Hunter x Hunter is still very popular around the world because of its incredible story line, strategic battles, and well designed characters, even with these continuous worries. Even if the new chapters are published years apart, each new chapter release becomes a unique occasion. Even during extended silences, the franchise has survived thanks to this devoted fan base.In addition to the manga’s pause, the fighting game adaptation Hunter × Hunter: Nen × Impact has also been delayed. Originally scheduled for release in 2024, the game will now launch on July 17, 2025.Developed by Bushiroad and Eighting—the very studio behind Marvel vs. Capcom 3—the Hunter x Hunter game promises high-energy three-on-three battles featuring characters from the beloved anime. Rollback netcode, a key feature for smooth online multiplayer, is cited as the main reason for the delay, with developers emphasizing their goal to deliver a refined and competitive gameplay experience.The game, which was created by Bushiroad and Eighting, the same studio that worked on Marvel vs. Capcom 3, promises intense three-on-three combat with characters from the popular anime. The primary cause of the delay is attributed to rollback netcode, a crucial component for seamless online multiplayer, with developers stressing their intention to provide a sophisticated and competitive gaming experience.There are 16 characters in the game's original cast, and more will be added through post-launch content. Early trailers and gameplay footage have created a lot of buzz among anime gamers despite development difficulties.But in November 2024, controversy erupted when the Australian Classification Board rejected the game, thereby prohibiting its release in the nation. The decision was made because of a scene in which a character engaged in inappropriate behavior with children, which was judged to be "implied sexual violence" and "not justified." by context.Although this has no bearing on the game's release in the majority of regions, it has reignited debates regarding censorship and content sensitivity in anime-related media. The way to handle such scenes in adaptations without undermining the original work's intent is still up for debate among fans.READ MORE: Hunter x Hunter: Is the Anime Return Imminent After the Manga Resumes?