Hunter x Hunter is a popular anime that features a unique power system called Nen. Nen allows individuals to manipulate their life energy and aura to create unique Nen techniques. The abilities of Nen users vary in strength and can be dangerous, which is why their existence is often hidden from the public. Those who embark on the journey to master Nen must undergo rigorous training to perfect the four main principles: Ten, Zetsu, Ren, and Hatsu. In this article, we will explore the six types of Nen in Hunter x Hunter.
1. Enhancement
Enhancement is a straightforward yet powerful type of Nen. Users of this type can enhance themselves and the objects they carry, making it ideal for characters who prefer hand-to-hand combat. With enough training, an enhancement Nen user can punch with the force of a missile and have skin tougher than tank armor. This balance of offensive and defensive power makes it the most versatile and powerful type of Nen. One of the strongest enhancement Nen users is Gon Freecss.
2. Transmutation
Transmutation seems to borrow from the best qualities of other Nen types, such as conjuration and emission. The two strongest characters in the series, Killua Zoldyck and Hisoka Morrow, are practitioners of this type of Nen. They both exhibit incredible transmutation abilities by using their aura to create powers and abilities that do not exist in the physical world.
Killua can mimic lightning properties to enhance his striking power. Hisoka, on the other hand, develops a new substance by combining rubber and chewing gum properties. Like enhancement, this type of Nen has both offensive and defensive capabilities. However, because it requires sharp thinking to use effectively, it is not the strongest type of Nen.
3. Emission
The power of an emission Nen user depends entirely on the strength of their aura. Emission allows users to separate their aura from their body, and while beginners can only use it briefly, experienced emitters can maintain it for several hours and over a great distance.
Although most Nen users’ aura gradually weakens when separated from their bodies, emitters can maintain their aura strength for a short period after separation. This makes emission the strongest offensive ability of all Nen types due to the raw power of aura. Emitters excel in long-range combat with long-lasting effects because they can shoot aura bullets. Some can even teleport and transfer their aura to inanimate objects.
4. Conjuration
Nen type conjuration allows users to create physical, self-sufficient, and material objects from their aura. Users can also create principles and laws for specific objects or areas, and object durability can be improved through the user’s skills or conditions applied. The object’s length and size can be changed as desired, and users can make the object appear and disappear at will. Once they are skilled, they can add specific abilities to the object. Famous conjurers in the series are Kurapika, Shizuku, and Kortopi.
5. Manipulation
Like conjuration, manipulation has the ability to overcome other Nen users if used correctly. Forcing and even controlling enemies gives manipulators the power to win with a single punch. However, this ability is highly dependent on manipulators gaining control over their opponents.
If they fail, manipulators must rely on their fighting skills. Because it is difficult for manipulators to learn enhancement and conjuration abilities, they must fight against their enemies if their manipulation fails. Manipulators can manipulate simple inanimate objects to machines. Famous Manipulators in the series are Zushi, Squala, and Baise.
6. Specialization
Specialization is the most elusive Nen type among all. This type provides many abilities to its users, but it is not always strong in battle. One thing is clear; every specialist knows the secret of strong Nen abilities, but the abilities are not necessarily powerful in combat.
A specialist usually relies on their Hatsu and personality. Although their abilities vary in battle, each specialist goes to battle with an element of surprise that other Nen users do not have. Famous specialists in the series are Chrollo, Neferpitou, and Neon.
In conclusion, understanding the different types of Nen in Hunter x Hunter is essential for fans of the series. Each type of Nen has unique abilities and strengths, making them indispensable in different scenarios. The use of Nen adds depth and complexity to the story, making the anime even more exciting to watch.