Hunter x Hunter – Season 5 (2013–2014)

The Rise of the Chimera Ants

Season 5 marks a dramatic shift in Hunter x Hunter (2011) as the story enters its darkest, most emotionally devastating arc — the Chimera Ant Arc. Widely praised as one of the greatest arcs in anime history, it explores humanity, evolution, morality, and the consequences of power through intense storytelling and unforgettable character growth.

This season transforms the series into a mature, philosophical epic that pushes Gon, Killua, and the entire Hunter world to their limits.

Season 5 Overview

Title: Hunter x Hunter – Season 5 (Chimera Ant Arc)
Japanese Title: ハンター×ハンター (Hantā × Hantā)
Episodes: 61
Air Date: January 6, 2013 – July 21, 2013 (Part 1)
Studio: Madhouse
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Prime Video, DVD, Blu-ray

Opening Theme: “departure! -second version-” by Masatoshi Ono
Ending Themes: “Hunting for Your Dream” by Galneryus, “Nagareboshi Kirari” by Yuzu

Story Summary

Gon and Killua face their biggest threat yet — the emergence of the Chimera Ants, a species capable of evolving rapidly by consuming humans. As the ants grow in intelligence and strength, the world faces a catastrophic threat unlike anything seen before.

Meanwhile, Gon becomes determined to save Kite, whose tragic fate haunts him. Killua battles his inner demons to protect his best friend. As the conflict escalates, the Hunters Association launches a specialized squad to eliminate the Chimera Ant King — leading to the groundbreaking showdown between Netero and Meruem, one of the most iconic battles in anime history.

Major Arcs Covered

• Chimera Ant Emergence Arc — The birth and terrifying evolution of the ants begin.

• NGL Investigation Arc — Gon, Killua, and Kite discover the ant threat firsthand.

• Queen’s Last Days & Birth of Meruem — A turning point that reshapes the entire storyline.

• Palace Invasion Arc — A masterpiece of tension — the Hunters execute their final assault.

• Meruem vs. Netero — One of anime’s greatest philosophical and physical battles.

• Gon’s Awakening — Gon’s emotional breakdown leads to one of the most shocking transformations in anime.

Main Characters

• Gon Freecss — Driven by grief and rage, he faces the darkest moment of his life.

• Killua Zoldyck — He grows emotionally stronger, becoming Gon’s anchor.

• Meruem — The Chimera Ant King whose moral evolution is a highlight of the series.

• Komugi — A simple girl whose bond with Meruem defines the arc’s humanity.

• Isaac Netero — Hunter Association Chairman and legendary martial artist.

• Neferpitou — A ruthless Royal Guard whose actions push the story’s emotional core.

Themes and Style

• Humanity vs. Instinct — What makes someone truly “human”?

• Power & Consequence — Strength comes at a cost — sometimes irreversible.

• Morality & Choice — Even monsters can grow hearts; even heroes can fall.

• Friendship & Loyalty — Killua’s devotion to Gon becomes the emotional anchor of the arc.

Animation & Visuals

Madhouse delivers its most ambitious work:

• fluid, brutal battles

• haunting lighting and shadows

• atmospheric tension

• emotional close-ups

• exceptional soundtrack

From Netero’s Zero Hand to Meruem’s final moments, the visuals shape a masterpiece.

Where to Watch

You can stream Hunter x Hunter – Season 5 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Prime Video

• DVD

• Blu-ray

Popularity & Reception

The Chimera Ant arc is universally praised as:

• one of the greatest shonen arcs ever created

• a masterwork in writing and character depth

• emotionally devastating and philosophically rich

It solidified Hunter x Hunter (2011) as a modern classic.

Final Thoughts

Hunter x Hunter – Season 5 is a landmark in anime storytelling — dark, emotional, and deeply human. The Chimera Ant Arc elevates the series far beyond traditional shonen, delivering a complex narrative about identity, sacrifice, and the fragile line between good and evil. A true masterpiece.