WHY HXH MANGA STOPPED?

The popular manga series, Hunter x Hunter, written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi, has been on hiatus since 2018, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its return. Several factors have contributed to this prolonged hiatus, ranging from Togashi's health issues to the intricate nature of the series itself.

Togashi's Health Struggles

Togashi has been vocal about his battles with chronic back pain and other health issues that have hindered his ability to work on Hunter x Hunter. In 2016, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, a condition that causes severe pain in the back and neck. This condition has limited his mobility and made it difficult to sit for long periods, making it challenging to continue working on the manga.

Togashi's health issues are not unique among manga artists. The demanding schedule and intense workload required to produce a weekly manga can take a toll on their physical and mental health. Unfortunately, Togashi's condition has proven particularly debilitating, forcing him to take extended breaks from his work.

The Complex World of Hunter x Hunter

Hunter x Hunter is renowned for its intricate world-building, complex characters, and intricate storylines. Togashi invests meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element of the series is carefully crafted and interconnected. This level of detail requires an immense amount of time and effort, which can be overwhelming when combined with Togashi's health challenges.

The intricate nature of the series also makes it difficult for Togashi to maintain a consistent release schedule. Each chapter requires extensive planning, research, and execution, which can lead to delays and interruptions. Togashi's commitment to maintaining the high quality of his work has contributed to the frequent hiatuses.

The Strain of Weekly Serialization

The Japanese manga industry operates on a rigorous weekly serialization schedule, demanding that artists produce new chapters at a rapid pace. This relentless schedule can be grueling, especially for artists with health issues or other commitments. Togashi has found it increasingly challenging to meet the demands of this schedule, leading to the extended hiatus.

The weekly serialization model has been a longstanding tradition in the manga industry, but it has come under scrutiny in recent years. Critics argue that the intense pressure and lack of flexibility can be detrimental to artists' health and creativity. Some artists have opted to abandon the weekly schedule in favor of more flexible release schedules, allowing them to focus on quality over quantity.

Conclusion

The hiatus of Hunter x Hunter is a testament to the challenges faced by manga artists in the competitive Japanese manga industry. Togashi's health issues, the intricate nature of the series, and the demands of weekly serialization have all contributed to the prolonged break. While fans eagerly await the return of the series, it is important to recognize the factors that have led to its hiatus and to appreciate the dedication and artistry of Togashi's work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will Hunter x Hunter return from hiatus?

There is no official date set for the return of Hunter x Hunter. Togashi has not provided any specific timeline, and his health remains a significant factor in determining when he can resume work on the series.

2. Will Hunter x Hunter ever be completed?

Togashi has expressed his desire to complete the series, but the uncertainty surrounding his health and the complexity of the story make it difficult to predict whether he will be able to do so. Fans remain hopeful that Togashi will eventually be able to bring Hunter x Hunter to a satisfying conclusion.

3. What are some other manga series similar to Hunter x Hunter?

If you're looking for manga series with similar themes and storytelling styles to Hunter x Hunter, you might enjoy series like One Piece, Fullmetal Alchemist, Attack on Titan, and Demon Slayer.

4. What is the future of the manga industry in Japan?

The manga industry in Japan is facing several challenges, including declining sales, an aging readership, and the rise of digital media. However, the industry is also adapting to these changes, with publishers and artists exploring new ways to reach and engage readers. The future of the industry remains uncertain, but it is clear that manga will continue to play an important role in Japanese culture.

5. What advice would you give to aspiring manga artists?

If you're passionate about creating manga, it's important to develop your skills, build a strong portfolio, and network with other artists and industry professionals. The manga industry is highly competitive, but with hard work and dedication, it is possible to achieve success.