Although nothing truly spectacular, we have another solid Hunter x Hunter entry here! This episode essentially serves to add a bit of depth to each of the characters and strengthen their overall chemistry. Gon's naïveté and earnestness, Killua's cynical nature, and especially Kurapika's deep-rooted thirst for vengeance are all wonderfully expanded upon here. The scene where we see Kurapika's scarlet eyes for the first time is one of the more unnerving of the series thus far, with its impact augmented by the deafening silence. The way he felt relieved that his fury hadn't been quelled in the time that had passed since he witnessed the extermination of his clan made his character even more compelling. Our quintet's banter is as delightful as ever, and the bonds forming between them become even more charming. The prisoners serve to highlight established character traits of our main cast, while also drawing out new ones.
Regarding the other review here, I don't think they fully understood the rules or stakes that were established in the previous episode. After Tonpa forfeited the first battle, Bendot explained that if the exam candidates were to lose outright they would have to remain in the tower for the rest of the 72 hours. Thus, if this scenario played out, the prisoners would have those 72 corresponding years removed from their sentences. Since Tonpa gave them a win to begin with, it makes perfect sense that the prisoners would try to reach three wins as efficiently as possible. However, as this match progresses and the prisoners lose consecutive battles, they switch tactics and begin to stall for time. So from my point of view, this unfolded in a perfectly natural and logical manner. There aren't any writing problems that I can find quite frankly.
Honestly this was one of the more enjoyable episodes of the series up until now aside from "Showdown x on x the Airship". It continues to capture the magical spirit of Hunter x Hunter and got me even more attached to these wonderful characters!
Regarding the other review here, I don't think they fully understood the rules or stakes that were established in the previous episode. After Tonpa forfeited the first battle, Bendot explained that if the exam candidates were to lose outright they would have to remain in the tower for the rest of the 72 hours. Thus, if this scenario played out, the prisoners would have those 72 corresponding years removed from their sentences. Since Tonpa gave them a win to begin with, it makes perfect sense that the prisoners would try to reach three wins as efficiently as possible. However, as this match progresses and the prisoners lose consecutive battles, they switch tactics and begin to stall for time. So from my point of view, this unfolded in a perfectly natural and logical manner. There aren't any writing problems that I can find quite frankly.
Honestly this was one of the more enjoyable episodes of the series up until now aside from "Showdown x on x the Airship". It continues to capture the magical spirit of Hunter x Hunter and got me even more attached to these wonderful characters!
