For many anime and manga fans, comparisons between big series like Hunter x Hunter are inevitable. When a show borrows elements from an iconic story, it can spark intense debates over whether it is an homage or outright imitation. Recently, Solo Leveling has come under scrutiny for its ant-themed arc, with many fans claiming it heavily borrows from Hunter x Hunter’s legendary Chimera Ant arc. Given how revered Hunter x Hunter’s storyline is, it is easy to see why people feel strongly about this comparison.
However, jumping to conclusions too quickly might not be fair to Solo Leveling. While the similarities are undeniable, the context, execution, and overall purpose of the arcs in each series differ significantly. Solo Leveling is not attempting to replicate Hunter x Hunter’s depth and complexity, because it thrives in a different story space that prioritizes spectacle and hype over detailed storytelling.
The Similarities Between Solo Leveling and Hunter x Hunter’s Ant Arcs
Why Do Both Series Have Similar Ant-Related Arcs?
At first glance, the parallels between the two arcs are very noticeable. Both feature monstrous, ant-like creatures that pose a massive threat to humanity. In Hunter x Hunter, the Chimera Ants evolve to become terrifyingly powerful, developing unique abilities and even suring human intelligence. Similarly, Solo Leveling introduces a deadly colony of ants that are very formidable enemies, acting as a major obstacle in Jinwoo’s journey.
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The structure of the conflicts also mirrors each other. Both stories depict an initial underestimation of the threat, followed by a desperate struggle to contain it. The setting, a dangerous island where humanity is forced to confront an overwhelming force, also bears a resemblance. Fans have pointed out that the concept of a hive-like structure with a dominant, nearly invincible leader feels very reminiscent of Hunter x Hunter’s approach to the Chimera Ant hierarchy.
Yet, despite these similarities, it is important to recognize that Solo Leveling's ant arc functions differently within its own narrative framework. While Hunter x Hunter’s arc is a deeply philosophical examination of morality, evolution, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity, Solo Leveling’s take remains focused on action, spectacle, and power progression. The execution, not just the concept, is what ultimately sets them apart.
Solo Leveling Stays True to Its Core Identity
Solo Leveling Is Not Trying to Be The Most Original Anime Out There
Solo Leveling has never set itself up as a series known for deep philosophical themes. Instead, its appeal lies in exhilarating fight sequences, power scaling, and the unstoppable rise of its protagonist, Jinwoo. While Hunter x Hunter weaves intricate character arcs and moral dilemmas into its Chimera Ant saga, Solo Leveling approaches its ant arc as an opportunity for intense battles and an impressive display of Jinwoo’s abilities.
The criticism that Solo Leveling “misses the point” of Hunter x Hunter’s arc assumes that it ever intended to replicate its depth. Solo Leveling is not trying to dissect existential questions about what it means to be human or to explore the complexity of villains like Meruem. Instead, it focuses on a straightforward, adrenaline-fueled journey where Jinwoo faces off against increasingly powerful enemies. Expecting Solo Leveling to match the depth of Hunter x Hunter is akin to criticizing a summer blockbuster for not being a thought-provoking arthouse film, because they serve different purposes.
Additionally, Solo Leveling has always drawn inspiration from various sources, blending popular tropes into its unique brand of storytelling. The ant arc may resemble Hunter x Hunter’s, but it does so while staying true to Solo Leveling’s signature style of high-energy action and hype-driven progression.
Does Borrowing Concepts Diminish Solo Leveling?
Is Solo Leveling a Worse Series For Taking Inspiration from Other Anime?
The reality is that many successful series borrow ideas and themes from their predecessors. In the world of storytelling, inspiration is inevitable, and what matters most is how a series uses those ideas originally. Solo Leveling is not alone in borrowing from other works, because many popular shōnen anime and manhwa have taken elements from earlier classics. Even Hunter x Hunter itself has drawn from older series like Dragon Ball and Fist of the North Star.
What sets great stories apart is how they take familiar ideas and transform them into something that feels fresh and interesting. While Solo Leveling may have taken notes from the Chimera Ant arc, it has shaped those elements into something that aligns with its fast-paced, power-fantasy-driven narrative. It does not seek to outdo Hunter x Hunter in emotional depth. Instead, it delivers what fans of Solo Leveling expect, which is high-stakes action, cool abilities, and the thrill of Jinwoo’s unstoppable rise.
If anything, the ant arc in Solo Leveling has reignited discussions about Hunter x Hunter’s brilliance, reminding fans why the Chimera Ant saga is so highly regarded in the first place.
Many fans appreciate the clear nod to Hunter x Hunter rather than see it as outright plagiarism. Homages in anime and manga are common, and acknowledging one’s influences can be a way of celebrating what came before. If anything, the ant arc in Solo Leveling has reignited discussions about Hunter x Hunter’s brilliance, reminding fans why the Chimera Ant saga is so highly regarded in the first place.
Solo Leveling is a Tribute, Not a Copy
Solo Leveling Does Not Copy Hunter x Hunter, But Instead Honors It
While the similarities between Solo Leveling's ant arc and Hunter x Hunter's Chimera Ant saga are apparent, they do not necessarily mean Solo Leveling is copying without merit. Instead, it is a case of taking inspiration and reinterpreting it within a different storytelling style. Solo Leveling was never about creating an intricate, multi-layered story, because it thrives on delivering exhilarating moments and maintaining a sense of power fantasy.
Rather than seeing Solo Leveling’s arc as a failed imitation, it is better to recognize it as a high-energy tribute that still manages to be entertaining in its own right. Hunter x Hunter will always be a masterpiece, but that does not mean Solo Leveling cannot have its own fun with similar themes. Ultimately, both stories serve their audiences in different ways, and there is room for both to be appreciated for what they offer.
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Solo Leveling
- Release Date
- 2024 - 2025-00-00
- Directors
- Shunsuke Nakashige
- Writers
- Noboru Kimura
Cast
Taito BanShun Mizushino (voice)-
Genta NakamuraKenta Morobishi (voice)
WHERE TO WATCH
StreamingBUYBased on a webtoon series, Solo Leveling is an action-adventure fantasy anime originally created by Chugong. When Sung Jinwoo is slain in the depths of a high-level dungeon, he is reborn, intending to use his newfound strength to reach the heart of the dungeon and uncover its secrets.
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Hunter × Hunter is a Japanese manga and anime franchise created by Yoshihiro Togashi. The story follows Gon Freecss, a boy who discovers his father is a legendary Hunter, and embarks on a journey to become one himself. Along the way, he encounters friends and foes in a world filled with martial arts, adventure, and paranormal elements. The franchise spans manga, multiple anime adaptations, films, OVAs, and video games.
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