Hiroyuki Etō’s Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 manga is set to conclude with its next volume. This announcement marks the end of a comedic fantasy adventure that has spanned over a decade, delighting fans with its charming characters and clever parodies of classic RPGs.
A Journey’s End
The news of the manga’s conclusion was revealed in the endnotes of the 20th volume of Mahōjin Guru Guru 2, released on April 12, 2025. Hiroyuki Etō launched the sequel to his original Mahōjin Guru Guru manga on Square Enix’s Gangan Online website in 2012, continuing the adventures of Nike and Kukuri.
The Legacy of Magical Circle Guru-Guru
Magical Circle Guru-Guru began its serialization in Square Enix’s Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine in 1992 and ran until 2003. The series quickly gained popularity for its humorous take on the fantasy genre and its affectionate parody of early role-playing games.
A Beloved Anime Adaptation
The adventures of Nike, the reluctant hero, and Kukuri, the young mage, captured the hearts of many and led to a successful anime adaptation. The first anime series aired from 1994 to 1995, followed by a film in 1996 and a sequel series, Doki Doki Densetsu Mahōjin Guru Guru, in 2000. A new anime adaptation of the original manga premiered in 2017, revisiting the story of Nike and Kukuri’s first meeting in Jimina Village.
Hiroyuki Etō: The Master Storyteller
Hiroyuki Etō’s creative journey began long before Magical Circle Guru-Guru. He made his debut in 1985 with the work Watch Store Lady SEKUNDEN ZEIGER GENT TICK TICK TICK. While he briefly left the manga industry, he returned to create the Dragon Quest 4 Cut Cartoon Theater in 1990, which garnered praise for its humor and influenced the Dragon Quest IV remake.
Etō’s interests extend beyond manga; he is also a DJ. His passion for music, machines, space, and mysteries often finds its way into his works.
Magical Circle Guru-Guru: A Timeless Classic
Magical Circle Guru-Guru has left an indelible mark on the world of manga and anime. Its humor, heart, and unique take on the fantasy genre have resonated with audiences for decades. As Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 approaches its final volume, fans can look back on the series with fondness and anticipation for what Hiroyuki Etō will create next.
Spinoffs and Adaptations
In addition to the main series and its sequel, Etō created Buyūden Kita Kita, a spinoff focusing on the comical dancing old man from the original manga. This series ran from 2008 to 2012. The Magical Circle Guru-Guru universe has also expanded into gaming, with Magical Circle Guru-Guru: Stardust Adventure launching on the G123 platform in 2023.
A Fond Farewell
As the final volume of Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 draws near, fans worldwide eagerly await the conclusion of Nike and Kukuri’s latest adventure. The series’ blend of humor, fantasy, and RPG parody has solidified its place as a beloved classic, ensuring that the magical circle will continue to enchant readers for years to come.