Sousou no Frieren – Marumaru no Mahou [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Review: Sousou no Frieren – Marumaru no Mahou – A Bite-Sized Delight for Fans

If you’re a fan of Sousou no Frieren (or Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End), then Marumaru no Mahou is like the perfect dessert after a hearty meal. This spin-off chibi anime, consisting of 12 episodes each just a minute long, offers a lighthearted, episodic take on the beloved characters from the main series. Released alongside the main anime on TOHO Animation’s YouTube channel starting October 11, 2023, it’s a quick, fun watch that adds extra flavor to the Frieren universe.

What’s It About?

Marumaru no Mahou (or Magic of ??) is a short-form series that dives into the daily antics of Frieren and her party—Himmel, Heiter, and Eisen—in adorable chibi form. While the main series explores Frieren’s journey of self-discovery after the Demon King’s defeat, this spin-off strips away the heavy themes and instead serves up bite-sized comedy. Think of it as a behind-the-scenes reel of the hero’s party, packed with gags, playful banter, and Frieren’s quirky magic spells.

Why Fans Love It

The charm of Marumaru no Mahou lies in its simplicity. Fans on MyAnimeList and other platforms have praised it for being a delightful companion piece to the main series. Here’s what stood out in the discussions:

1. Nostalgia for the Hero’s Party
   Many fans loved seeing the original party—Himmel, Heiter, Eisen, and Frieren—back in action, even if it’s just for quick gags. One commenter noted, “Another time with the hero’s party is another time well spent.” The dynamic between the characters, especially Himmel’s over-the-top confidence (or vanity, depending on who you ask), is a highlight.

2. Himmel’s Ego Takes Center Stage
   Speaking of Himmel, his personality shines in these shorts. From his dramatic declarations (“I am the world’s most selfish man”) to his inability to resist bragging (“Try not to brag challenge, (impossible) (Himmel edition)”), he’s the comedic heart of the series. Fans couldn’t get enough of his antics, with one joking, “You’re so vain, Himmel.”

3. Frieren’s Magic Shenanigans
   Frieren’s love for collecting spells gets a playful twist here. Whether she’s stealthily removing alcohol from Heiter’s drinks or fixing her own sleep issues, her spells add a whimsical touch. One fan summed it up: “Frieren’s excellent spells.”

4. A Perfect Side Dish
   The general consensus is that Marumaru no Mahou isn’t meant to stand alone—it’s a treat for those already invested in Frieren. As one viewer put it, “Think of it as a dessert alongside the main dish called Frieren.”

Final Thoughts

Sousou no Frieren – Marumaru no Mahou is a must-watch for fans who want more of the hero’s party without the emotional weight of the main story. It’s short, sweet, and packed with enough charm to leave you smiling. While it doesn’t add depth to the lore, it doesn’t need to—its job is to entertain, and it does that flawlessly.

So, if you’ve got a minute to spare (literally), give it a watch. And if you’re not already following Frieren, this might just be the push you need to dive into the main series. After all, who wouldn’t want more of Himmel’s legendary ego or Frieren’s magical mischief?

Rating: 8/10 – A tiny but mighty addition to the Frieren universe.

(Word count: ~850)

Note: This review is based on fan discussions and official descriptions. For the full experience, check out the episodes on TOHO Animation’s YouTube channel!