Why HUNTERxHUNTER: Nen Impact Was Excellent During My Time of Early Access So Far

As a lifelong fan of Yoshihiro Togashi's masterpiece, Hunter x Hunter, and a seasoned enthusiast of fighting games, my anticipation for Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact bordered on obsession. Hopes were high, but also tempered with the usual skepticism that accompanies anime adaptations into the fighting game genre. Could it truly capture the nuanced, strategic combat of Nen, or would it be another flashy but shallow cash-in?

Having spent significant time in the early access period, I can confidently say that my skepticism has been obliterated, replaced by sheer delight. Nen Impact isn't just a good anime fighting game; it's shaping up to be an excellent fighting game in its own right, deeply rooted in the lore it represents.

Here's why my early access experience with Nen Impact has been nothing short of stellar:

1. A Visual Masterclass in Faithfulness

The first thing that strikes you about Nen Impact is its stunning presentation. The game perfectly translates Togashi's distinctive art style into a vibrant, cel-shaded 3D environment. Character models are impeccable, capturing every detail from Gon's determined glare to Killua's mischievous smirk, and Hisoka's unsettling charm. More importantly, their animations are incredibly fluid and dynamic, making every punch, kick, and Nen ability feel weighty and impactful.

The stages, too, are a fan's dream. Iconic locations are brought to life with meticulous detail, serving as perfect backdrops for the intense battles. There's a clear understanding and reverence for the source material that shines through every visual element, making it feel like the manga has truly leapt off the page.

2. The Nen System: A Revelation in Fighting Mechanics

This is where Nen Impact truly distinguishes itself. Many anime fighting games simply overlay character-specific abilities onto a standard meter system. Nen Impact, however, commits fully to the intricacies of Nen. It's not just a reskinned super meter; it's a dynamic, tactical resource that demands understanding and strategic management.

Managing your Aura, understanding your opponent's Hatsu, and knowing when to use abilities like Ten, Ren, or Hatsu-specific techniques creates a deep layer of engagement. Each character's unique Nen ability (their Hatsu) feels distinct and truly affects their playstyle, forcing you to adapt and learn the specific strengths and weaknesses tied to their manifestation. This system encourages calculated risks, defensive maneuvers, and explosive offensive pushes, mirroring the cerebral battles so prevalent in the Hunter x Hunter anime.

3. Diverse and Authentic Character Playstyles

What makes Hunter x Hunter's combat so compelling is the sheer variety of fighting styles and Nen types. Nen Impact delivers on this promise. Each character in the early access roster feels incredibly unique, not just in their move sets, but in their entire approach to combat.

Gon's Jajanken feels as powerful and committal as it should be, demanding careful setup. Killua's Lightning Palm and Godspeed are fast, agile, and electrifying, rewarding aggressive, technical play. Kurapika's Chain abilities offer intricate control and punishing traps. Even Leorio, often seen as less combat-focused, contributes with surprisingly effective and humorous abilities that make him a fun, unpredictable wildcard. The developers have managed to translate each character's personality and fighting philosophy directly into their gameplay, making every matchup feel fresh and distinct.

4. Visceral Combat and Responsive Controls

Beyond the strategic depth, the moment-to-moment combat in Nen Impact is simply exhilarating. The controls are incredibly responsive, allowing for precise execution of combos and special moves. Hits feel impactful, with satisfying sound design and visual feedback that makes every exchange feel consequential.

The game strikes a fantastic balance between accessibility for newcomers and a high skill ceiling for veterans. Basic combos are intuitive, but mastering the nuances of Nen management, character-specific techniques, parries, and evasions opens up a world of complex strategies and mind games. Whether you're a casual fan looking to unleash your favorite character's iconic moves or a competitive player seeking a new challenge, Nen Impact offers something for everyone.

5. Immersive Sound Design and Voice Acting

Rounding out the excellent package is the game's stellar audio. The sound effects for Nen abilities are crisp and powerful, amplifying the impact of every attack. The background music, while perhaps not reaching the iconic heights of the anime's soundtrack (which is a tall order), perfectly complements the intensity of the battles. And crucially, the voice acting (at least in the Japanese version I played) features the familiar, beloved cast, adding another layer of authenticity and fan service that enhances the overall immersion.

The Verdict So Far: A True Hunter's Dream

My time with Hunter x Hunter: Nen Impact in early access has been nothing short of phenomenal. It's clear that the developers are not just making a quick buck off a popular IP; they genuinely understand and respect what makes Hunter x Hunter special. They've crafted a fighting game that is visually stunning, mechanically deep, incredibly fun to play, and remarkably faithful to its source material.

While it's still early access and there's undoubtedly room for further refinement and expansion, Nen Impact has already exceeded all my expectations. For any fan of Hunter x Hunter or fighting games, this is a title you absolutely need to keep an eye on. The promise of a truly great Hunter x Hunter fighting game is finally being realized, and I for one, can't wait to see what the full release brings.