1. Introduction
The “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” series may appear at first glance to be a typical magical girl anime with cute characters and a lighthearted atmosphere.
However, it is renowned for its shocking plot twists and profound themes that defy expectations.
Since its TV anime debut in 2011, the franchise has captivated countless anime fans with its unique world-building, intricately woven plotlines, and deep psychological portrayals of its characters.
Its popularity has only grown, expanding into compilation films, a completely new movie, and the spin-off “Magia Record” series based on a smartphone game.
In 2025, a brand-new movie titled “Walpurgisnacht: Rising” is also set to premiere.
This guide is designed to help newcomers navigate the entire “Madoka Magica” series without confusion.
We’ll break down the watch order by release date, chronological timeline, and recommended viewing sequence.
Additionally, we’ll highlight the key attractions of each entry and where to watch them, ensuring you get the most out of the series.
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2. Where to Watch?
The “Madoka Magica” series is available on major streaming platforms in Japan. Below is a table summarizing which services offer each title, whether by subscription or rental/purchase.
| Title | Platforms | Type | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puella Magi Madoka Magica (TV, 2011) | Netflix, d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA Premium, FOD Premium, Amazon Prime, Rakuten TV, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | Netflix, d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Movie Part 1: Beginnings (2012) | Netflix, d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Rakuten TV, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | Netflix, d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Movie Part 2: Eternal (2012) | Netflix, d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Rakuten TV, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | Netflix, d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Movie Part 3: Rebellion (2013) | Netflix, d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Rakuten TV, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | Netflix, d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Magia Record 1st SEASON (2020) | d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Magia Record 2nd SEASON – Eve of Awakening (2021) | d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Magia Record Final SEASON – Dawn of a Shallow Dream (2022) | d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Amazon Prime, Google Play | Subscription / Rental | d Anime, U-NEXT, Amazon and more |
| Movie: Walpurgisnacht: Rising (2025 Winter) | – | – | To be announced post-theatrical release |
Note: “Walpurgisnacht: Rising” is scheduled for theatrical release in winter 2025. Streaming platforms will be announced after the premiere.
Global Streaming Service
”Puella Magi Madoka Magica” is available on several streaming platforms worldwide, though availability varies by region. Here’s a comprehensive guide to where you can watch the series:
1. Streaming Platforms and Regional Availability:
- Crunchyroll:
- Availability: Accessible in multiple regions, including the United States, Canada, and select European countries.
- Content: Offers the complete TV series.Hulu
- Languages: Japanese audio with English subtitles; English dubbed versions may also be available.
- Link: Crunchyroll – Puella Magi Madoka Magica
- Hulu:
- Availability: Primarily available in the United States.
- Content: Streams the full TV series.crunchyroll.com+11animefreakjapan.com+11Hulu+11
- Languages: Japanese audio with English subtitles; English dubbed versions available.
- Link: Hulu – Puella Magi Madoka Magica
- Amazon Prime Video:
- Availability: Varies by region; available in countries like the United States, Canada, and Japan.
- Content: Offers the TV series and movies for rental or purchase.reelgood.com+2Hulu+2animefreakjapan.com+2
- Languages: Both Japanese audio with subtitles and English dubbed versions are typically available.
- Link: Amazon Prime Video – Puella Magi Madoka Magica
- Netflix:
- Availability: Limited; primarily available in Japan.
- Content: Streams the TV series and movies.www.wherecaniwatchthis.tv+6Amazon+610th.madokamagicausa.com+6
- Languages: Japanese audio with various subtitle options; availability of dubbed versions depends on the region.
- Link: Netflix Japan – Puella Magi Madoka Magica
2. Release Dates and Times:
The original TV series aired in 2011. Availability on streaming platforms has fluctuated over the years due to licensing agreements.
For the most current release dates and times, it’s advisable to check the specific platform’s listing, as content availability can change.
3. Subtitles and Dubbed Versions:
- Subtitles: Most platforms offer English subtitles. Some also provide subtitles in other languages, such as Spanish and Portuguese.
- Dubbing: English dubbed versions are available on platforms like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Crunchyroll. Availability of other language dubs depends on the region and platform.
4. Additional Notes:
- Regional Restrictions: Due to licensing agreements, the availability of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” varies by country. For instance, it may not be available on certain platforms in regions like the United Kingdom.
- Alternative Viewing Options: If the series isn’t available for streaming in your region, purchasing the series digitally through platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, Vudu, Microsoft, or Amazon is an alternative.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check the availability of “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” directly on the streaming platforms in your region, as licensing agreements can change over time.
3. Watch Order List for “Madoka Magica”
Release Order:
- Puella Magi Madoka Magica (TV, 2011)
- Movie Part 1: Beginnings (2012)
- Movie Part 2: Eternal (2012)
- Movie Part 3: Rebellion (2013)
- Magia Record 1st SEASON (2020)
- Magia Record 2nd SEASON – Eve of Awakening (2021)
- Magia Record Final SEASON – Dawn of a Shallow Dream (2022)
- Movie: Walpurgisnacht: Rising (2025)
Chronological Timeline:
- Puella Magi Madoka Magica (TV)
- Movie: Rebellion
- Movie: Walpurgisnacht: Rising (after release)
- Magia Record series (spin-off, separate timeline)
Recommended Order: For newcomers, we highly recommend watching in release order. Experiencing the TV series first allows you to fully appreciate the unfolding plot twists, followed by the Rebellion movie and Magia Record spin-off for additional depth.
4. Trailers and Early Reviews
Each entry in the “Madoka Magica” series is accompanied by official promotional videos (PVs) that generated buzz even before release.
- TV Series: Initially marketed as a typical magical girl anime, the series shocked viewers with its dark twists starting from episode 3. The PVs skillfully teased its unique tone, and reviews praised its unpredictability and emotional impact.
- Rebellion (Movie 3): Trailers highlighted new characters and settings, creating high anticipation. Fans on social media lauded its unexpected plot turns and deeper exploration of the “Madoka Magica” universe.
- Magia Record: While based on a game, the anime earned positive feedback for its original direction, especially for the intense developments in the 2nd season and beyond.
5. Basic Info About “Madoka Magica”
- Original Work: Anime-original
- Genre: Dark Fantasy, Magical Girl
- Studio: Shaft
- Director: Akiyuki Shinbo
- Screenwriter: Gen Urobuchi (Nitroplus)
- Main Cast:
- Madoka Kaname: Aoi Yuki
- Homura Akemi: Chiwa Saito
- Mami Tomoe: Kaori Mizuhashi
- Sayaka Miki: Eri Kitamura
- Kyoko Sakura: Ai Nonaka
Highlights of the Series:
- Unpredictable and gripping storylines
- Intricately woven plot threads and foreshadowing
- Shaft’s distinct visual and directorial style
- Deep themes exploring life, death, hope, despair, and sacrifice
- Well-developed and emotionally resonant characters
6. Synopses and Highlights of Each Title
1. Puella Magi Madoka Magica (TV Series, 2011)
- Synopsis: Madoka Kaname, a normal middle school girl, encounters a mysterious creature named Kyubey who offers her the chance to become a magical girl. However, she soon discovers that the role comes with unexpected consequences.
- Highlights: The sudden shift from lighthearted beginnings to dark and intense developments, along with visually stunning animation.
2. Movie Part 1: Beginnings & Part 2: Eternal
- Synopsis: These two compilation films recap the events of the TV series with refined animation and additional scenes.
- Highlights: Perfect for refreshing your memory or as a condensed viewing option, enhanced by the high-quality visuals of a theatrical release.
3. Movie Part 3: Rebellion
- Synopsis: A completely new story set after the TV series. Focuses on Homura Akemi and the continuation of her struggle.
- Highlights: Unexpected plot twists, deepened character arcs, and Shaft’s signature surreal visuals.
4. Magia Record Series
- Synopsis: Set in Kamihama City, this spin-off follows original magical girls led by Iroha Tamaki, with appearances from familiar faces like Madoka and Homura.
- Highlights: Fresh perspectives, new characters, and complex storylines expanding the “Madoka Magica” universe.
7. Key Points to Know Before Watching
- Unique World-Building: Subverts the typical magical girl genre by exploring themes of hope versus despair.
- Core Concepts:
- Soul Gems: The source of magical girls’ power, with dark implications.
- Witches: The final transformation of magical girls, adding a tragic twist.
- Kyubey: An emotionless being driving the central conflict.
- Advice for Beginners:
- Start with the TV series to fully understand the characters and setting.
- Watch Rebellion to grasp the true conclusion.
- If you’re hooked, dive into the Magia Record spin-off for extra depth.
- Related Works:
- Magia Record offers a side story, ideal after completing the main series.
8. Conclusion
Recommended Watch Order:
- TV Series → Rebellion → Walpurgisnacht: Rising → Magia Record
Available Platforms:
- Streaming: Netflix, Amazon Prime, d Anime Store, U-NEXT, DMM TV, ABEMA, FOD, Rakuten TV, Google Play
- Physical Media: Blu-ray/DVD versions available
Final Advice: Begin your journey with the TV series, follow it with Rebellion, and prepare for the upcoming Walpurgisnacht: Rising film. Once immersed, explore Magia Record to experience even more of the rich and captivating “Madoka Magica” universe.
Still in the mood for more anime binge-watching?
Check out how to watch Blue Exorcist in the best order:
→ Blue Exorcist Complete Watch Order Guide
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