Hunter x Hunter (2011) Episode 1, "Departure x And x Friends," follows young Gon Freecss as he leaves Whale Island to become a Hunter and find his father. After catching the "Master of the Swamp" to prove himself, Gon sets sail, befriending Kurapika and Leorio during a violent storm that tests their resolve. The episode concludes with the trio setting out for the perilous Hunter Exam, establishing the series' high-stakes tone.