Hiroyuki Etō’s Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 manga is coming to an end with its next volume. News of the ending was included in the endnotes of the manga’s 20th volume, which was released on April 12, 2025. The sequel to the original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga launched on Square Enix’s Gangan Online website in 2012.
A Fond Farewell to a Beloved Sequel
Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 continues the adventures of Nike and Kukuri, picking up shortly after the defeat of Giri in the original series. With a new evil king emerging, the duo embarks on another journey filled with magic, humor, and heartwarming moments. The sequel retains the charm and parody of early role-playing games that made the original manga a hit while introducing new characters and challenges.
A Look Back at the Original Magical Circle Guru-Guru
The original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga ran in Square Enix’s Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine from 1992 to 2003. The series, created by Hiroyuki Etō, blends fantasy and comedy while parodying classic RPG video games, particularly those in the Dragon Quest series.
The story follows Nike, a reluctant hero, and Kukuri, a young magic user and the last of the Migu Migu tribe, as they travel the world to defeat Giri, the ruler of darkness. Along the way, they encounter various monsters, complete side quests, and gain new abilities, all while showcasing Etō’s comedic storytelling and unique art style.
Anime Adaptations and Popularity
The original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga was adapted into a popular anime series that aired from 1994 to 1995. The anime further boosted the series’ popularity, leading to a 1996 film and a 2000 television sequel titled Doki Doki Densetsu Mahōjin Guru Guru. A new anime adaptation of the original manga premiered in 2017, introducing the series to a new generation of fans.
The 2017 anime adaptation, produced by Production I.G, covered the story from the manga’s first chapter, when Nike and Kukuri meet in Jimina Village. Crunchyroll streamed the anime, making it the first official English release for the Mahoujin Guru Guru franchise.
Hiroyuki Etō: The Mastermind Behind the Magic
Hiroyuki Etō is a Japanese manga artist known for his humorous and engaging storytelling. Born in Taketa, Oita Prefecture, Etō’s work has captivated audiences for decades.
Early Career and Influences
Etō’s career began in earnest after graduating from Musashino Art University, where he participated in the Manga Research Club. He submitted comics to the New Wave Course section of ‘Again Manga School’ and made his professional debut in 1985 with Watch Store Lady SEKUNDEN ZEIGER GENT TICK TICK TICK.
Etō’s love for early role-playing games inspired him to create the original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga. His affection for the genre is evident in the series’ parodic elements and its structure, which mirrors the gameplay of classic RPGs.
Other Works and Contributions
Besides Magical Circle Guru-Guru and its sequel, Etō has created other manga series, including Buyūden Kita Kita, a spinoff about a comical dancing old man from the original manga. He also contributed to other projects, including the sound department for the video game Armored Core: For Answer and writing for the 2017 Mahōjin guru guru TV series.
The Legacy of Magical Circle Guru-Guru
Magical Circle Guru-Guru has left a lasting impact on the manga and anime world. Its unique blend of fantasy, comedy, and parody has resonated with fans of all ages. The series has been praised for its creative storytelling, memorable characters, and its ability to poke fun at the tropes of the RPG genre.
Cultural Impact and Influence
The series’ popularity has led to numerous adaptations, including anime series, films, and games. Its influence can be seen in other works that blend fantasy and comedy, and its characters have become iconic figures in the manga and anime community. The series has also been credited with influencing the Dragon Quest series, with some settings from Etō’s manga being incorporated into the official Dragon Quest IV remake.
Where to Experience Magical Circle Guru-Guru
For those new to the series or looking to revisit the adventures of Nike and Kukuri, Magical Circle Guru-Guru is available in various forms:
- Manga: The original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga consists of 16 volumes. Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 currently has 20 volumes, with the final volume on the way.
- Anime: The original 1994-1995 anime series, the 2000 sequel Doki Doki Densetsu Mahōjin Guru Guru, and the 2017 remake are all available for streaming on various platforms.
- Games: Magical Circle Guru-Guru: Stardust Adventure, a browser game, launched on the G123 platform in 2023.
As Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 approaches its conclusion, fans can look back fondly on the series’ journey and anticipate the final chapter in the adventures of Nike and Kukuri. Hiroyuki Etō’s creation will continue to be cherished for its humor, heart, and its unique place in the world of manga and anime.