The Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair released the third promotional video for the anime adaptation of Wookjakga’s “A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special” (known as “Kikansha no Mahō wa Tokubetsu Desu” in Japanese), a Korean webcomic. This video not only introduces fans to exciting previews of the series but also previews forth the ending theme, 6 o Naderu (Stroke the 6), sung by the artist Momosumomosu.
The official website also recently released a character promotional video for the protagonist, Desir Herman. Fans can look forward to the anime’s premiere in October, with Crunchyroll set to stream the series as it airs.
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special is a South Korean isekai web novel. But don’t expect your typical Japanese fantasy isekai setting. Wookjakga illustrates to life a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly different. We’re treated to rich lore, compelling characters, and intricate relationships that make it an instant page-turner.
You won’t find your common overpowered hero or a world-saving mission here. Instead, the story focuses on the life of Desir Arman, a returner who’s been given a second chance to relive his past and change the future. What’s a returner, you ask? Well, that’s where the magic truly begins.
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A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special: Staff, Cast & Plot
The anime adaptation of A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special is directed by Taishi Kawaguchi and produced by Arvo Animation. The scripts are written by Takamitsu Kouno, the character designs are overseen by Hiromi Kato, and the music is composed by Kenta Higashiohji.
The opening theme song, Get Back, is performed by FLOW, and the ending theme song, 6 o Naderu (Stroke the 6), is performed by Momosumomosu.
Other staff members include:
- Eiji Iwase: Art Director
- Masahiro Kama: Art Assistance
- Kazushige Kanehira, Akihiro Hirasawa, Yasuhiro Okumura, Tomoyasu Fujise: Art Design
- Hideki Imaizumi: Director of Photography
- Shōtarō Hashiguchi: Prop Designer
- Aiko Matsuyama: Color Key Artist
- Ryoko Kaneshige: Editing
- Takatoshi Hamano: Sound Director
- Yasumasa Koyama: Sound Effects
- Magic Capsule: Sound Production
The Cast
The cast includes Takuma Terashima voicing Desir Herman, Sayumi Suzushiro voicing Romantica Eru, and Natsumi Fujiwara voicing Pram Schnaizer.
The Plot
In a world on the edge of annihilation following a decade-long disastrous war within the ominous “shadow labyrinth,” Desir Herrman is one of the last remaining skilled magicians. But even his overpowered skills seem futile against the existential threat hanging over humanity.
Just when despair appears inevitable, he’s thrown back in time to his early days at the prestigious Hebrion Academy. Armed with the precious gift of a second chance, Desir is resolute in his mission to rescue not only himself but also the dear friends he once tragically lost.
Armed with the foreknowledge of their shared destiny, Desir’s determined efforts hold the potential to reshape the future, or else, they risk being captured in the unforgiving cycle of a horrible fate.
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special breaks through the common trope of power fantasy manhwa with a fresh twist that keeps readers hooked. While it might not introduce groundbreaking concepts, its execution is impressive.
The protagonist, Desir isn’t the conventional overpowered MC archetype; he’s simultaneously underpowered and overpowered, relying on his intellect and strategic planning to win in battles rather than sheer brute strength. Desir isn’t confined to a single role; he adapts to situations.
The artwork may not be groundbreaking, but it’s commendable, and the fights become progressively impressive with each story arc. What truly shines is the unique world-building, especially the distinct “dungeons” that set this apart from other Korean manga. We’re excited to see what the anime will bring.
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