How Does 'I'M Really Not A Nen Exorcist' Diverge From HxH'S Original Plot?

I've been deep into 'I'm Really Not a Nen Exorcist' lately, and what strikes me most is how it flips the script on HxH's traditional Nen system. While HxH builds its power structure around rigorous training, innate talent, and complex rules, this story introduces a protagonist who stumbles into Nen abilities almost by accident, focusing on exorcism rather than combat. The original HxH plot revolves around Gon’s journey to find his father, with Nen as a tool for growth and survival. Here, the narrative shifts to a darker, more supernatural angle—ghosts, curses, and spiritual conflicts take center stage. The protagonist isn’t a hunter chasing glory; he’s a reluctant exorcist navigating a world where Nen interacts with the unseen. The power scaling feels more mysterious, less about auras and more about resolving spiritual imbalances. HxH’s Nen types (Emitter, Enhancer, etc.) are still present, but the story repurposes them for exorcism rituals, which adds a fresh layer of strategy. The societal impact differs too—HxH’s Hunter Association is a prestigious institution, while here, exorcists operate in shadows, feared or dismissed by mainstream Nen users. The stakes feel more personal, less about physical battles and more about psychological and spiritual survival.

Another major divergence is the tone. HxH balances adventure with moments of levity, while 'I'm Really Not a Nen Exorcist' leans into horror and existential dread. The protagonist’s struggles aren’t about becoming stronger but about understanding the weight of his power. The villains aren’t just rogue hunters; they’re often spirits or cursed entities with tragic backstories. The world-building expands beyond HxH’s established continents, introducing hidden realms and forgotten folklore. It’s a clever subversion—using HxH’s foundation to tell a story that feels entirely new yet familiar.

The biggest difference between 'I'm Really Not a Nen Exorcist' and HxH is how it treats Nen. HxH is all about mastering abilities through discipline, but here, Nen is almost a curse—something the protagonist can’t fully control. Instead of tournaments and expeditions, the plot revolves around exorcising spirits, which gives it a ghost-story vibe. The protagonist’s growth isn’t linear; he’s constantly questioning his role, making it more introspective than HxH’s action-packed arcs. The rules of Nen are bent, too—exorcists use it in ways hunters never would, like sealing spirits or reading residual energy. It’s a darker, more niche take on the same power system.