Collector’s History: The Reason I am Drawn to the Phantom Troupe (The Spider)
1. Introduction: The Blog’s Mission (A Hook for Global Fans)
Welcome to Skillhunter-collector. My handle is Rennes.
This blog is a dedicated specialized gallery and database focused solely on collecting and detailing merchandise of the Phantom Troupe (The Spider) from Hunter x Hunter.
I am committed to sharing the passion and detailed information of my collected Phantom Troupe goods. My goal is to create a space that doesn’t just review products, but preserves and tells the story of their charisma and history.
I promise to continuously provide the best possible information to all collectors who share a deep love for the Phantom Troupe.
2. The Collector’s Origin: Why the Phantom Troupe?
While Hunter x Hunter was compelling from the start, the Yorknew City Arc is undoubtedly the masterpiece that solidified my passion.
My devotion to the Troupe was decided during this arc:
I was struck by the impact of Chrollo’s first combat scene using Indoor Fish. His unparalleled charisma was cemented by the fact that he was able to fight to a draw against two of the Zoldyck family’s strongest members, Zeno and Silva.
Uvogin’s overwhelming power as the Troupe’s physically strongest member, easily scattering the formidable Shadow Beasts. And the ultimate loyalty of Pakunoda, who chose to save the leader over the Troupe’s rules, sacrificing her life to share vital information with the original members via Memory Bomb.
From their brutal beginning to the intense end during the hostage exchange with Gon and Killua, their way of life and death deeply resonated with me.
3. The Troupe’s Journey and the Evolution of the Collection
Initially, I bought merchandise for other characters as well as the Phantom Troupe, but as my collection grew, I decided to specialize exclusively in the Phantom Troupe to focus my passion.
The Troupe’s ongoing narrative constantly fuels the fire of collection:
The devastating power of Feitan’s “Rising Sun” during the Chimera Ant Extermination Arc against Queen Zazan. And the sheer surprise of Bonolenov’s “Jupiter,” a powerful ability revealed for the first time in combat (“He’s super strong!”).
In the Dark Continent Arc, following Chrollo’s fierce battle and victory over Hisoka in the Heavens Arena, the sudden and brutal killing of the unsuspecting Kortopi and Shalnark—a shocking turn typical of Yoshihiro Togashi’s writing. This, along with the flashback scenes revealing the Troupe’s formation, proves that the story never ceases to be compelling.
This depth of storytelling is why collecting their merchandise is more than just a hobby.
4. Collection Philosophy: Rennes’s Selection Criteria
I focus on selecting high-quality, long-lasting items.
Currently, I focus on collecting and documenting the following types of items:
Figures (Noodle Stoppers, Grandista, etc.)
3D Items (Rubber mascots, Rubber coasters, Sitting figures, Mini-mascots)
Paper Collectibles (Stickers, Cards, Coasters, Posters)
My philosophy is to acquire these items at affordable prices, little by little, by utilizing second-hand shops and flea markets so as not to incur a large monthly burden.
5. The Mission of This Blog
This blog is meant to be both a record of my collecting journey and a “collector’s encyclopedia” for all Phantom Troupe merchandise enthusiasts.
I invite you to share your love and memories of your own Troupe goods in the comments section.
Let us continue to celebrate the allure and history of the Phantom Troupe together.