Hunter X Hunter is one of the greatest anime in history. This can be attributed to epic battles, detailed story arcs, and a consistent brilliance that makes each episode special. But its most important ingredient is the vast array of fascinating characters. Vulnerable heroes, deplorable villains, and chaotic neutrals, Hunter X Hunter has it all.
The protagonist of the show is Gon Freeccs, and the lovable hunter is universally liked. However, as is so often the case in anime, the main character isn't always the best character. Killua Zoldyck is Gon's best friend and the true fan favorite. His family history, calm persona, and complex motivations make him relatable and likable. There are times when fans wish Killua was the true main character.
10 Meeting The Zoldyck's: It's no wonder Killua is so gifted
When you're born into a family of world-famous assassins, it's difficult not to make you the main character. Killua is a member of the Zoldyck family, a group of assassins feared around the globe. And rightly so, as fans witness the terrifying powers of several members.
Illumi effortlessly passes the Hunter exam and kills an entire mob family. Silva is known to have killed a member of the notorious Phantom Troupe. And Zeno is a legendary figure whose abilities are praised by Netero. It's no wonder Killua is so gifted.
9 Killua vs Johness really sets the tone for how deadly Killua is
Taking place during the Hunters Exam, Killua must face-off against Johness, an infamous serial killer. Johness killed 146 people with his bare hands, leading to a fearsome reputation. Aware of who Johness is, Leorio told Killua to forfeit or else he would die. But the Zoldyck prodigy calmly walked forward, appearing unfazed.
Within seconds, Killua appeared behind Johness holding his heart. He told Johness that whilst he may be a mass murderer, he had no chance against a trained assassin. This scene really sets the tone for how deadly Killua is.
8 Creating Godspeed
Like Gon, Killua is a nen-prodigy, but their styles couldn't be more different. Whilst Gon specializes in brute strength, Killua's talent lies in diversity. Growing up, Killua was exposed to high levels of electricity as part of the Zoldyck assassin training.
Therefore, he developed a tolerance and can now incorporate electricity into his nen skillset. With this, Killua developed incredible abilities like godspeed, allowing him to move faster than his opponent can react. With this skill, the assassin overwhelmed the Chimera Ant Youpi.
7 He Was Chosen To Lead The Chimera Ant Team
Killua's talent for nen is incredibly rare. But even more unusual is the analytical mind he possesses despite his young age. Throughout the anime, Killua formulates flawless strategies to overcome any opponents. He analyses other's nen powers and works out the perfect counter in moments.
As a result, Killua is put in charge of organizing team plans despite usually being the youngest team member (alongside Gon). One only has to watch the Chimera Ant arc to understand this, as Killua was trusted to lead a team consisting of experienced and battle-hardened hunters.
6 Every Time He Demonstrated His Emotional Development
When first introduced to fans, Killua was very much the cold-blooded assassin his family raised him to be. He had no difficulty killing during the Hunters exam and openly stated he had no friends. But with Gon, Kurapika, and Leorio entering his life, Killua's very nature changed.
He began to understand friendship, knowing how good it felt to have others care for him. He became selfless and took risks, especially when Gon was in danger. And he learned the value of human life, only killing when absolutely necessary. Gon's values were set from day one, Killua's changed and developed.
5 When He Went Full Assassin
After meeting Gon and the gang, Killua begins to soften and fans started to forget just how cold-blooded the assassin could be. Fortunately, it wasn't long until viewers were reminded of the dark side of Killua. After reaching the top floor of Heavens Arena, Gon is challenged by Sadaso, who declines.
Sadaso then kidnaps Zushi, releases him after he and Killua reach an agreement, and then goes against the agreement, forcing Gon to fight him. Discovering this betrayal, Killua sneaks up on the skilled nen-user and tells him that if he doesn't leave the arena immediately, he will kill him. And judging by the look on Killua's face, he meant it.
4 Whenever He Shows His Vulnerability
Gon is certain in himself and his abilities. He never wavers and is confident of his next action regardless of how dangerous the situation is. It's part of what makes him so likable, but also frustrating. Gon's personality makes him an excellent protagonist but also unrelatable.
Killua is different. He's careful and calculated but also uncertain of the best action to take in a life or death situation. Furthermore, Killua shows vulnerability and sometimes shies away from battle. This uncertainty and vulnerability is something all humans experience frequently, and it makes Killua more relatable.
3 Displaying His Assassin Skills
Even before discovering nen, Killua possessed an array of assassin skills that meant he could challenge those with superior power. One of the coolest abilities is his rhythm echo where Killua creates after images of himself by walking at a specific pace.
Then there's his assassin mode. In this state, Killua's speed, strength, and focus increase. He can defeat stronger opponents in an instant and even intimidate Chimera Ants. In addition, the young assassin can make his hand as sharp as a knife, effortlessly severing his opponent's limbs.
2 His Dying Thoughts Were About Gon
Gon is responsible for introducing Killua to the concept of friendship and helped him understand and build these relationships. However, once Killua understood the nature of his relationship with Gon and opened his heart to him, the young assassin became the ultimate friend.
He puts his life on the line time and time again for Gon, despite the latter's impulsive nature to charge headfirst into danger. When fighting with the Chimera Ants, Killua almost dies. But even then, his last thoughts questioned whether or not he was useful to Gon.
1 When He Asked Alluka To Save Gon
Alluka Zoldyck is the second youngest Zoldyck child and is possessed by a terrifying entity known as Nanika. In her possessed form, she is capable of anything and can grant any request. However, this comes at a price, often the lives of innocent people. Her abilities are dark, mysterious, and often deadly.
Despite this, Killua develops a trusting relationship with Alluka and Nanika. When Gon was near death from the Chimera Ant battle, Killua asked Alluka to heal him. He put his faith in the nature of his and Alluka's relationship despite the mystery and potential destruction of her ability. Because of this, Gon made a full recovery. Selfless Killua for the win.