Hunter × Hunter: Greed Island (2003)

The Deadliest Game Becomes Reality

The Greed Island OVA continues Gon and Killua’s dangerous journey as they enter a real-life video game created by Gon's father, Ging. With high-stakes gameplay, Nen battles, and emotional progress, this OVA is a crucial chapter in the Hunter × Hunter story.

OVA Overview

Title: Hunter × Hunter: Greed Island
Japanese Title: HUNTER×HUNTER G・I（ハンター×ハンター グリードアイランド）
Episodes: 8
Air Date: February 2003 – August 2003
Studio: Nippon Animation
Streaming Availability: DVD, Blu-ray 
Opening Theme: “Pray” by Wish
Ending Theme: “Popcorn” by Mikuni Shimokawa

Story Summary

After obtaining entry to the legendary game Greed Island, Gon and Killua are transported into a high-risk world created by professional Hunters. The “game” is actually a real island filled with monsters, spell cards, and deadly players.

Gon hopes that clearing the game will bring him one step closer to finding his father. Together with Biscuit Krueger, the boys master new Nen abilities, battle powerful adversaries, and uncover the mysteries behind this seemingly playful but truly perilous creation.

Major Arcs Covered

• Greed Island Training Arc — Gon and Killua train under Biscuit Krueger to strengthen their Nen to survive inside the game.

• Card Hunting Arc — The trio races against rival Clearing Groups to collect the 100 rare cards needed to complete Greed Island.

• Bomber Confrontation Arc — The deadly player Genthru (The Bomber) attempts to clear the game through violence, leading to an explosive showdown.

Main Characters

• Gon Freecss — Determined to find Ging and grow stronger.

• Killua Zoldyck — Gon’s closest ally, balancing instinct and strategy.

• Biscuit Krueger — A powerful Nen master in disguise, teaching the boys advanced abilities.

• Genthru — The main antagonist known as “The Bomber.”

Themes and Style

• Growth Through Challenge — Gon and Killua evolve rapidly due to Greed Island’s brutal demands.

• Game vs. Reality — A playful setting hides real-world dangers.

• Friendship and Trust — The bond between the trio deepens through shared struggle.

Animation & Visuals

Produced by Nippon Animation, the Greed Island OVA features:

• Enhanced Nen battle animation

• More dynamic card and spell visuals

• Classic early-2000s Hunter × Hunter art style

The OVA maintains the tone of the 1999 series while offering smoother action scenes.

Where to Watch

Greed Island is available through:

• DVD releases

• Blu-ray releases

• Limited regional physical releases (Streaming availability varies by country and is often unavailable.)

Popularity & Reception

Greed Island is widely praised for:

• Introducing iconic Nen abilities (like Gon's Jajanken refinement)

• High-stakes strategy fights

• Strong character development

It serves as a perfect bridge between the Yorknew City arc and the events of Greed Island Final.

Final Thoughts

Hunter × Hunter: Greed Island (2003) is an essential chapter filled with growth, tension, playful mystery, and unforgettable battles. It deepens the legacy of the series while pushing Gon and Killua toward their destinies — making it a must-watch for fans of the 1999 continuity.