Ep 38. Burn x Idea x Nen

Killua surprised everyone by taking the match against Gido as he claims that Gido did some dirty tricks to win against Gon. With the stakes raised, the two start their match, with Gido displaying his prowess in manipulating his tops. However, Killua proves too swift and easily neutralizes Gido's tops, finally finishing him off with his own top. Gon, pleased that Killua is slowly regaining his confidence, picks up a fight with the last Shadow Beast, but Hisoka claims it for himself, citing the reward as his motivation. Meanwhile, the other applicants bunker down for the night, anticipating the end of the long, grueling phase.

'Hunter X Hunter' is a Japanese anime television series produced by Nippon Television and Madhouse Studios based on a manga series of the same name authored by Yoshihiro Togashi. The show follows the story of young Gon Freecss who discovers that his father, who he thought was long dead, is a Hunter, a member of a revered and elite group of individuals who undertake dangerous tasks to uncover treasures, rare animals, and other information. In this episode, titled 'Burn x Idea x Nen,' the story continues with the hunter exam tournament.

The episode starts with the conclusion of Gon's match against Gido. Killua steps in to fight on behalf of Gon after the latter claims that Gido cheated during their match. The two engage in a fierce battle, with Gido using his control over spinning tops to attack Killua. However, Killua proves too quick for Gido and ends up destroying his opponent's weapon before delivering the final blow.

Killua's victory is a significant moment for the character, as it symbolizes his return to confidence. The audience can see that the character had been dealing with some issues after his previous experiences, but he takes down Gido with ease, showcasing his newfound self-belief.

The next scene shifts to Hisoka, who claims the Hunter badge that was intended for Killua. The act of taking the badge seems to further stoke tensions between Hisoka and the other participants, especially the antagonistic Illumi. However, the mysterious Hisoka leaves without further altercation, and the episode moves on to the next stage of the tournament.

The other applicants bunker down for the night, with some discussing potential strategies for the final stage of the tournament. They discuss possible alliances and enemies, each trying to figure out the best way to make it to the end. It's a testament to the strength of the writing that even the secondary characters in the show are fleshed out and given some depth.

The scene shifts to Gon and Killua, who visit a local store that sells rare cards required for a game called 'Greedy Island.' They both decide to take a chance and participate in the game, hoping to win the ultimate prize, an opportunity to enter an exclusive auction of rare items.

The episode concludes with a scene that sets up the next arc of the show as it introduces Nen: an inner power that allows hunters to amplify their physical and mental abilities beyond human limits. Gon realizes that he possesses some latent Nen abilities and starts training under a master named Wing to master the power. The arc sets up the show's core premise, which is the exploration of the complex and supernatural world of hunters, uncovering the mysteries and secrets of the organization while developing the characters along the way.

Overall, 'Hunter X Hunter' season 1 episode 38 is an engaging episode that further develops the story and characters of the show. The highlight of the episode is Killua's victory over Gido and the subsequent discussion between the characters, setting up the tensions that drive the story forward. The introduction of the game 'Greedy Island' and the emphasis on Nen as a core power utilized in the show further underscores the complexity and depth of the world-building. The episode effectively sets up the next arc of the series, leaving viewers excited for what is to come.