Hiroyuki Etō’s Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 manga is coming to an end with its next volume. This marks the end of a long journey for fans of the series, which began as a parody of early role-playing games and evolved into a beloved fantasy comedy.
A Fond Farewell to Nike and Kukuri
The news of the manga’s conclusion was announced in the 20th volume of Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2. Hiroyuki Etō launched the sequel to his Mahōjin Guru Guru manga on Square Enix’s Gangan Online website in 2012 and after over a decade of serialization, the magical journey is coming to a close.
A Look Back at Magical Circle Guru-Guru
Magical Circle Guru-Guru is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hiroyuki Etō. It was originally serialized in Enix’s Monthly Shōnen Gangan from 1992 to 2003. The series follows the adventures of Nike, a young boy forced to become a hero, and Kukuri, a young girl who is the last of the Migu Migu tribe and a practitioner of Guru-Guru magic. Together, they travel the world, battling monsters and attempting to defeat the demon lord Giri.
Inspiration and Parody
Etō drew inspiration from early role-playing games to create the original gag parody manga. The series is filled with humor and pokes fun at common RPG tropes, making it a delightful read for gamers and manga fans alike.
A Cultural Phenomenon
The manga’s popularity led to several anime adaptations, including:
- A 45-episode television series that aired from 1994 to 1995.
- A film released in 1996.
- A 38-episode television sequel titled Doki Doki Densetsu Mahōjin Guru Guru, which aired in 2000.
- A new television anime adaptation in 2017, which started with the story of the manga’s first chapter when Nike and Kukuri meet in Jimina Village.
These adaptations helped to further popularize the series and introduce it to new audiences.
Story and Characters
Magical Circle Guru-Guru is set in a world where people choose typical RPG classes, like Wizard, Priestess, and Warrior. The story revolves around Nike and Kukuri, who are destined to fight the Demon Lord Giri.
- Nike: Trained by his father to be a hero, Nike possesses great skill but is easily frightened and somewhat immature.
- Kukuri: A magic apprentice and the last of the Migu Migu tribe, Kukuri is proficient in dark summoning magic and possesses incredible luck. However, she is also immature and easily offended.
The pair’s adventures are filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and exciting battles, making it a beloved series for fans of all ages.
Hiroyuki Eto: The Master Behind the Magic
Hiroyuki Etō is a Japanese manga artist known for his comedy and adventure stories. Born in Taketa City, Oita Prefecture, Etō’s career began in 1985.
Early Life and Influences
Etō was passionate about rock music during middle school and was influenced by romance manga artist Yukiko Oshima. He studied at Musashino Art University and actively participated in the Manga Research Club.
Career Highlights
- Debut: Etō made his professional debut in February 1985 with “Watch Store Lady SEKUNDEN ZEIGER GENT TICK TICK TICK,” published under the name Hiroyuki Ninotaka.
- Dragon Quest Parody: In 1990, Etō joined Enix magazine’s “Dragon Quest IV Cut Cartoon Theater,” which gained him recognition for his humor and led to some of his settings being integrated into the Dragon Quest IV remake.
- Magical Circle Guru-Guru: His most famous work, Magical Circle Guru-Guru, was serialized from 1992 to 2003 and cemented his place in manga history.
- Other Works: Etō’s other notable works include Gadget (2002-2005) and Satellite Usagi TV (2006-2007).
- Guru Guru 2: Etō launched the Mahōjin Guru Guru 2 sequel manga on Square Enix’s Gangan Online website in 2012, which is now coming to an end.
Style and Themes
Etō often creates adventure stories for young teenagers, incorporating elements of parody, fantasy, and comedy. He also has interests in machines, space, aliens, and mysteries, which appear in his works.
Assistants and Friends
Hiroyuki Etō is known to have had Fullmetal Alchemist author Hiromu Arakawa as an assistant early in her career. He is also friends with Yashichirou Takahashi.
The Legacy of Magical Circle Guru-Guru
Magical Circle Guru-Guru has left an indelible mark on the manga and anime world. Its humor, charming characters, and creative world have captivated audiences for decades. As Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 comes to an end, fans can look back fondly on the series and its impact on the industry.
A Lasting Influence
The series’ influence can be seen in its numerous adaptations, including anime series, films, and video games. The characters of Nike and Kukuri have become iconic figures in the world of manga and anime, and their adventures continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Online RPG
In April 2024, G123 announced the first online RPG based on the anime adaptation of Magical Circle Guru-Guru, titled Magical Circle Guru-Guru: Stardust Adventure. This free-to-play game allows players to explore the world of Guru-Guru and battle in turn-based battles with characters like Nike, Kukuri, and Kita Kita Oyaji.
What the Future Holds
While Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 may be ending, the world of Magical Circle Guru-Guru will continue to live on in the hearts of fans. Whether through rereading the manga, watching the anime adaptations, or playing the online RPG, there are plenty of ways to continue enjoying the adventures of Nike and Kukuri.
End of an Era
The conclusion of Magical Circle Guru-Guru 2 marks the end of an era for fans of the series. However, the legacy of Magical Circle Guru-Guru will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.