This manga offers a nostalgic journey back to the early days of Magic: The Gathering, blending the rise of the iconic card game with the relatable struggles of middle school life. Set in the 90s, the story follows Hajime Kano, a self-proclaimed geek who constantly finds himself in second place to Emi Sawatari, the perfect honor student. Their dynamic shifts when the two discover the world of Magic: The Gathering.

The manga does a great job of capturing the excitement and culture of trading card games during this era. The blend of competition, strategy, and passion for the game is clearly conveyed, making it a treat for both fans of the game and newcomers. The rivalry between Hajime and Emi is fun to follow, and their evolving relationship adds depth beyond the gaming aspect.

The art style is sharp and captures the essence of 90s manga, enhancing the nostalgic feel. The only drawback is that the story sometimes leans too heavily on clichés, making certain plot points predictable.

Overall, Destroy All Humans. They Can’t Be Regenerated is a fun and engaging read for fans of Magic: The Gathering and those who enjoy school life with a gaming twist. While it doesn't break new ground, it delivers a solid and enjoyable experience.

I received an ARC from Viz Media via NetGalley. This manga follows two middle school students who play Magic the Gathering in 1998. An avid MtG player myself, I liked this slice of life story and there was plenty of explanation for those unfamiliar with the game. The artwork wasn’t my favorite, but the cute relationship between the main characters was sweet.