English Dub Review: Magical Explorer “A Side Character’s Reincarnation”

The debut episode of Magical Explorer is an intriguing start to a series that promises to be full of adventure, magic, games, and high-stakes. Viewers are introduced to Kousuke Takioto, a young man who gets reincarnated into his favourite adult fantasy/bishōjo game, Magical Explorer. The problem is that he isn’t incarnated as a protagonist; instead, he is a sidekick.

It’s not what he hoped for. Being a sidekick is much worse than what he remembers. He has enormous magical powers, but he is unable to use them properly, which frustrates him. And since he is well-acquainted with the rules of the game, its characters, events, and locations, he decides to rewrite the rules and become much stronger.

The episode also establishes how poorly Kousuke’s character was treated in the original game. Kousuke is obviously not willing to accept that fate. His knowledge of the game gives him an opportunity to change things, and he starts thinking about how he can make better use of the abilities and potential that his character possesses.

The introduction of Marino Hanamura, the principal of Tsukuyomi Magic Academy adds another layer to the story. Her connection to Kousuke introduces an unexpected path for him and begins setting up his future in the magical world. The academy itself also gives the story a larger setting where Kousuke can develop his abilities and interact with characters he already knows from the game.

What is particularly interesting is that the narrative doesn’t rush into making Kousuke the centre of the story. Instead, it establishes the difference between having great potential and actually knowing how to use it. His game knowledge may give him an advantage, but he still has plenty to learn.

Overall, the first episode of Magical Explorer is an entertaining introduction to its reincarnation premise. The idea of being reborn as a sidekick rather than the hero gives the story a fun angle and extra potentiall, while Kousuke’s huge mana reserves and lack of control create a solid challenge. The episode takes its time establishing the tone and Kousuke’s circumstances, but it gives the story an interesting direction.