Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is an eagerly anticipated 2D fighting game set to launch in 2024. Developed by Eighting and published by Arc System Works in the West and Bushiroad Games in Japan, this game promises to capture the essence of the popular anime and manga series, Hunter x Hunter. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming title.
Overview and Release
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact will release in 2024 for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. The game is based on the anime adaptation of the long-running manga series, which has been serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since 1998. Arc System Works, known for their expertise in fighting games, is responsible for publishing the game outside Japan, while Bushiroad Games handles the Japanese release.
Gameplay Mechanics
3v3 Tag Team Battles
The core gameplay of Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact revolves around 3v3 tag team battles, similar to titles like Marvel vs. Capcom and Dragon Ball FighterZ. Players will form teams of three characters, switching between them during battles to create dynamic and strategic combat scenarios. Each character has a separate health bar, allowing for tactical substitutions when a character is low on health or at a disadvantage.
Single-Button Combos and Assist Mechanics
The game features user-friendly mechanics such as single-button combos, allowing players to execute complex moves with ease. The game also incorporates assist mechanics, where players can call in team members to extend combos or provide support during fights.
Over Gear and Crisis Mode
A unique gameplay element in Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is the Over Gear mechanic. This system grants players stat boosts to attacks, as well as movement and other abilities. When a character’s health drops into the “crisis” zone, these boosts are amplified, offering a chance for dramatic comebacks.
Aura Arts and Unison Arts
Special moves in Nen x Impact, known as Aura Arts, are performed using single-directional inputs. These cinematic attacks deal significant damage and become more powerful as the player’s gauge fills up. The game also features team super moves called Unison Arts, where all team members release their Aura Arts simultaneously for devastating effects.
Confirmed Characters
16 characters will be playable at launch in the game. Here are the confirmed charcters for the game’s launch roster:
- Gon Freecss
- Killua Zoldyck
- Leorio Paradinight
- Kurapika
- Hisoka Morow
- Isaac Netero
- Biscuit “Bisky” Krueger
- Uvogin
- Machi Komacine
- Genthru
Each character brings unique abilities and fighting styles, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for players.
New Character Reveal: Bisky
One of the notable new characters in Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is Biscuit Krueger, or Bisky. Introduced in the Greed Island Arc of the anime, Bisky is a formidable hunter with a dual-form gameplay style. She can switch between her small, agile form and her true, towering muscular form. This transformation enhances her attack and defense capabilities, adding a strategic layer to her combat style.
Trailers and Demos
Several trailers have been released, showcasing the game’s fast-paced action and character roster. Fans had the opportunity to try a demo of the game at EVO Japan in April and will have another chance at Anime Expo in Los Angeles from July 4 to July 7, 2024. Additional gameplay footage and character reveals are expected during these events.
The Legacy of Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter, a celebrated manga created by Yoshihiro Togashi, has captivated audiences since its debut in 1998. The story follows the adventures of Gon Freecss, a young boy who embarks on a quest to find his father, Ging, who is a legendary Hunter. Along the way, Gon befriends Killua Zoldyck, Kurapika, and Leorio Paradinight, each with their own unique goals and abilities. Throughout their journey, they face numerous challenges, from the grueling Hunter Exam to encounters with dangerous foes. Consequently, the series has gained a massive following, inspiring multiple anime adaptations, OVAs, and films. Not only has Hunter x Hunter left an indelible mark on fans worldwide, but it has also influenced many aspects of anime and manga culture. With the upcoming release of Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact, fans will once again immerse themselves in the rich and dynamic world of Hunters.
FAQs
Q1: What platforms will Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact be available on?
A1: Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact will be available on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Q2: When is the release date for Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact?
A2: The game is set to launch in 2024, though an exact date has not yet been announced.
Q3: Who are the confirmed characters in the game?
A3: Confirmed characters include Gon, Killua, Leorio, Kurapika, Hisoka, Netero, Bisky, Uvogin, Machi, and Genthru.
Q4: What is the Over Gear mechanic?
A4: The Over Gear mechanic provides stat boosts to characters’ attacks, movement, and other abilities. These boosts are amplified when the character is in a low-health “crisis” state.
Q5: How do Aura Arts work in the game?
A5: Aura Arts are special cinematic moves that inflict heavy damage. They are executed using single-directional inputs and become more powerful as the player’s gauge fills up. Unison Arts allow all team members to release their Aura Arts simultaneously.
Q6: Can fans play a demo of the game before its release?
A6: Yes, fans could play a demo at EVO Japan in April 2024 and will have another chance at Anime Expo in Los Angeles from July 4 to July 7, 2024.
Hunter x Hunter: Nen x Impact is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the fighting game genre, offering fans of the series and newcomers alike a thrilling and strategic gameplay experience. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches.
