Hunter Steele, an "Earthen" from the surface world, follows clues in his grandfather's journal into the subterranean realm of Arachna. During his descent, an ancient manacle fuses to his wrist, triggering a fall through a portal. In Arachna, he encounters Shadow, a proud, solitary battle spider. Despite initial clashes fueled by Hunter's impulsive cluelessness and Shadow's pride, they form a reluctant Spider Rider bond, shadowed by a prophecy suggesting an Earthen could bring salvation or doom to the Inner World.

Hunter possesses green eyes and red hair, usually tied back with a white headband featuring four green gems. His civilian attire includes a bluish-white T-shirt, an open red vest, dark blue jean shorts with lighter blue trim, white socks, and brown shoes. As a Spider Rider, he dons blue armor: a tunic with a red orb, shoulder guards, pants, white gloves, and boots. Empowered by the Oracle Keys, his armor evolves, enlarging the left shoulder pad to grant web-shooting abilities via the call "Electra Twist"; dual Keys further enhance his armor and shield.

Initially, Hunter shows determination and bravery mixed with laziness, stubbornness, and impulsiveness. He neglects planning, complains about missions, and acts out of boredom, causing friction with allies. His early partnership with Shadow is marked by arguments and distrust. Over time, Hunter matures, developing greater concern for others and a drive to protect Arachna. He recognizes the complexity of the human-Invectid conflict, shifting from simple heroics to advocating peace with former foes like Mantid. His core stubbornness and determination remain, redirected towards protecting others.

Key events shape his journey: an unwilling bond with Shadow formed under Invectid threat, solidified battling Igneous and Flame; meeting Corona, another Spider Rider, whom he admires silently, too shy to confess; encountering Invectid "Big Four" members like the mind-controlled Aqune, motivating her rescue; aiding Magma in finding Portia, Brutus's sister and Aqune's spider partner; protecting the floating kingdom of Nuuma; retrieving Oracle Keys—fragments of the Spirit Oracle’s power enhancing his abilities. During a pivotal confrontation, he learns Mantid is a vengeance-driven Earthen and that Invectids suffered a century without sunlight. Nearly consumed by obsession in their final battle, Hunter chooses mercy when the Spirit Oracle intervenes, offering Mantid redemption.

His relationships are central: the bond with Shadow evolves from adversarial to deeply loyal, defined by mutual concern and teamwork. Corona provides stabilizing calm in battle, though his feelings stay unspoken. Allies like Magma, Igneous, and the redeemed Invectid Grasshop broaden his perspective, cementing his belief in coexistence. Guidance from figures like the legendary spirit Quake and the Lost Mariner underscore themes of legacy and sacrifice.