Pitou's design change in Hunter x Hunter is yet another example of Togashi's artistic brilliance

In Hunter x Hunter, the Chimera Ant arc boasts some of Yoshihiro Togashi’s most powerful visual storytelling, and none more striking than the transformation of Neferpitou, or “Pitou.”

Throughout this arc, Togashi gradually refines Pitou’s design, evolving the character from a bestial chimera into something eerily human, reflecting the shifting emotional stakes and narrative complexity of the story. This evolution isn’t just cosmetic. It mirrors Pitou’s internal transformation, as their attachments and motivations become more layered.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the opinions of the writer.

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Pitou’s visual evolution in Hunter x Hunter: From monstrous instinct to human emotion

As the arc begins, Pitou appears ghostly and alien. They look more like a monstrous chimera than anything else, with their tattered hair, rough jagged lines, and exaggerated cat-like ears and claws. Each stroke is uneven and unnerving, and the outlines are rough and hazy. Pitou represents unadulterated instinct and unadulterated strength in this form, free from emotional interference.

The thing feels deadly, wild, and entirely alien. At this point, viewers are aware of Pitou's terrifying job as the King's guardian, following orders without question or subtlety. However, Togashi gradually changes Pitou's visual presentation as the narrative goes on. The hair loses its sharp edges and softly curls, and becomes smoother.

Also read: This Hunter x Hunter character truly upholds Togashi's message, and it's not Gon or Killua

A refined nose, rounder eyes edged with gentle lines, and a faint grin that suggests warmth are among the softening facial features. Their ears maintain feline shape, but now appear as ears on a face with human proportions rather than monstrous extensions. The body language—and the drawing style—grows more delicate and approachable, with fluid outlines replacing scratchy horselike strokes.

These changes correlate with emotional beats in the plot. When Pitou meets Gon and whispers, “Can I join you?”, the softer lines underscore a moment of confusion and yearning. This is no longer purely predator confronting prey—it’s something more conflicted.

When Gon confronts Pitou later, Togashi’s art frames Pitou’s tearful expression and trembling posture with fine pens and nuanced shading, emphasizing emotional vulnerability rather than raw menace. By the end panels, Pitou’s human features have fully emerged: expressive eyes, soft curls, and emotional distress visible in every stroke.

In a narrative sense, Togashi uses Pitou’s design evolution to externalize internal change: the chimera who obeys becomes the chimera who cares. It’s a visual metaphor for growing attachments, confusion between duty and empathy, and the tragic fragility of life.

Also read: The line between good and evil in Hunter x Hunter is blurry, and its characters symbolize this

Each incremental design tweak serves as a narrative beat, transforming Pitou from pure beast into a character with human-like emotional depth. Furthermore, this design shift reinforces the central themes of Hunter x Hunter: identity, humanity, and choice. Chimera Ants begin as extensions of their king’s will, but many evolve identities of their own.

Pitou’s arc crystallizes that evolution: by physically becoming more human, they embody the moral dissonance of loyalty to cell-and-king versus loyalty to personal feelings. The art communicates that beautifully without a single explicit statement. It’s visual storytelling at its finest.

Also read: What is Conjuration ability in Hunter x Hunter? What are its limits? Explored

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Final thoughts

In the Hunter x Hunter Chimera Ant arc, Pitou's transformation is a masterwork of visual narrative. Togashi draws emotional development rather than merely portraying it. Pitou's internal turmoil deepens as their look softens from angular and brutish to more human, bridging empathy and instinct. From devoted predator to reluctant protector, this transition represents a larger narrative shift.

Every scene's emotional effect is increased by the modest design changes that reflect Pitou's psychological development. It's a potent illustration of how character design can change as the plot does, demonstrating Togashi's mastery at fusing emotional depth with subtle visuals.

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Edited by Sunita N. Das