The 1999 adaptation is paced differently, and episode 34 takes place much earlier in the story, while the group is still at the Zoldyck estate. Encounter with Canary
The candidates draw lots from a box. The first match announced makes the room go silent: .
This episode is a cliffhanger that works. It doesn’t tease a fight; it teases consequences . As Gon screams into the rain, you feel the weight of the series shift. The fun, adventurous exam is over. The real world—dark, unfair, and psychologically brutal—has begun. Hunter X Hunter Episode 34
This episode is noted for its shift in tone regarding Gon's character. While still appearing "cuddly and happy-go-lucky," Gon displays a ruthless efficiency in these fights that some viewers find "potentially evil" or at least deeply morally ambiguous. His willingness to permanently disable Gido and his visible amusement when Killua is electrocuted hint at the darker potential of his personality that becomes a major theme later in the series.
While Gon is carried off to be healed by the examiners’ medics, the next matches proceed. Leorio wins his match against Pokkle. Kurapika defeats Hisoka’s disguised partner. Killua faces Illumi — and something strange happens. The 1999 adaptation is paced differently, and episode
Proves he has the focus and "Ren" to compete on the 200th floor. Successfully blackmails Sadaso into leaving.
The episode begins with Gon and his friends, including Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, reflecting on their experiences so far in the exam. As they discuss their strategies, they realize that the next test will require them to work together and utilize their unique skills. Meanwhile, the sinister forces of the Hunter Association are watching the candidates closely, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. This episode is a cliffhanger that works
: Gon uses strategic thinking and his father’s fishing rod to counter Gido’s spinning tops. He famously hooks a flagstone on the arena floor and flips it to launch Gido into the air, eventually shattering Gido’s prosthetic leg to secure a decisive victory. Killua vs. Riehlvelt