Hiroyuki Etō’s Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 manga is drawing to a close, with the announcement that its next volume will be the last. This news marks the end of a significant chapter in the beloved Magical Circle Guru-Guru franchise, a series known for its comedic take on the RPG genre.
A Long and Winding Road: The Journey of Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2
Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 is a sequel to the original Magical Circle Guru-Guru manga, which was serialized in Enix’s Monthly Shōnen Gangan from 1992 to 2003. The original series gained considerable popularity, leading to multiple anime adaptations and cementing its place in the hearts of many manga and anime fans.
Following the adventures of Nike, a young boy destined to be a hero, and Kukuri, a quirky girl who wields the mysterious Guru-Guru magic, the series parodies classic role-playing video games, particularly those in the Dragon Quest series. Its lighthearted humor, charming characters, and clever use of RPG tropes made it a hit with older children and shōnen manga enthusiasts.
The Genesis of a Sequel
Years after the original series concluded, Hiroyuki Etō revived the magical world with Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2. The sequel launched in 2012 and has since been serialized on Gangan Online, published by Square Enix. This continuation revisits Nike and Kukuri, presenting new challenges and adventures in their ever-evolving journey. As of June 2024, Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 has spanned 19 volumes, continuing the legacy of its predecessor. Now, in April 2025, the announcement of its final volume signals the approaching end of this sequel series.
Hiroyuki Etō: The Mastermind Behind the Magic
Hiroyuki Etō is the creator of the Magical Circle Guru-Guru series. Born in Taketa, Oita, Japan, Etō’s career spans several decades. He made his debut in the February 1985 issue of Comic Again with his work Watch Store Lady SEKUNDEN ZEIGER GENT TICK TICK TICK, under the name Hiroyuki Ninotaka.
A Versatile Creator
Etō’s influences range from rock music to the works of romance manga artist Yukiko Oshima. Before dedicating himself fully to manga, he worked in an imported record store and contributed to game magazines. His diverse interests and experiences have shaped his unique storytelling style, blending humor, adventure, and fantasy.
Beyond Guru-Guru
While he is best known for Magical Circle Guru-Guru, Etō has created other works, including Gadget and Satellite Usagi TV. He is also known to be a DJ under the name NICK-Q, showcasing his passion for music and entertainment.
The Impact and Legacy of Magical Circle Guru-Guru
Magical Circle Guru-Guru‘s impact extends beyond the pages of the manga. The series has spawned multiple anime adaptations, a browser game, and various merchandise, attesting to its enduring appeal.
Anime Adaptations
The first anime series, produced by Nippon Animation, aired from 1994 to 1995, adapting the first four volumes of the manga. A second anime series, Doki Doki Densetsu Mahōjin Guru Guru, aired in 2000. In 2017, a reboot series animated by Production I.G adapted the entire manga from the beginning.
A Parody with Heart
The series has also influenced the Dragon Quest series, with elements from Etō’s parody making their way into the official games. The humor and heart of Magical Circle Guru-Guru have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a beloved and influential series in the manga and anime world.
What to Expect from the Final Volume
As Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 approaches its conclusion, fans are eager to see how Hiroyuki Etō will wrap up the story of Nike and Kukuri. Will there be a final showdown with a powerful enemy? Will the duo finally find lasting peace?
Unanswered Questions
Many questions remain, and fans are hoping for satisfying resolutions to the ongoing plot threads. The final volume is expected to tie up loose ends, provide closure for beloved characters, and leave a lasting impression on the series’ dedicated following.
A Fond Farewell
The announcement of the final volume is bittersweet for fans who have followed Nike and Kukuri’s adventures for years. While it marks the end of Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2, it also celebrates the enduring legacy of a series that has brought laughter and joy to countless readers.
Where to Dive Into the Magical World
For those new to the series or looking to revisit old favorites, Magical Circle Guru-Guru and Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 are available through various platforms.
Manga
The original Magical Circle Guru-Guru is available in 16 volumes, while Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 currently spans 19 volumes, with the final volume on the horizon. Digital versions of the manga are available for purchase on platforms such as Book☆Walker and Amazon.
Anime
The various anime adaptations of Magical Circle Guru-Guru can be streamed on Crunchyroll and other anime streaming services. These adaptations offer a visual treat, bringing Etō’s characters and world to life with vibrant animation and memorable soundtracks.
A Lasting Legacy
As Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 prepares to bid farewell, its impact on the manga and anime landscape remains undeniable. Hiroyuki Etō’s creation has touched the hearts of many, and its legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.