A "magical girl" is a character archetype commonly found in anime and manga, typically featuring young girls who possess magical powers. These characters often transform into heroic versions of themselves, donning colorful costumes and wielding special abilities to fight evil. The genre emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. Magical girl stories often include a mentor figure, such as a talking animal or a wise guardian, who guides the protagonist. Popular examples of this genre include Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura, which have inspired numerous adaptations and merchandise, contributing to the global appeal of magical girl narratives.