Gab Hernandez 
Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Walpurgisnacht Rising, the fourth movie in the dark magical girl series, has just been delayed to a new release date.
Casual anime fans wouldn’t be blamed for assuming Puella Magi Madoka Magica was your typical magical girl anime. After all, the cute style, colorful designs, and trope characters trick the viewer into thinking so. But a few episodes into Puella Magi Madoka Magica will reveal just how dark the series can get.
Since the premiere of the anime in April 2011, the series has garnered millions of fans and has influenced countless works since. In addition to the 12-episode run, the series has spawned manga spin-offs, video games, novels, and a trilogy of critically acclaimed films. Much like Noragami, animated Madoka projects went on hiatus for a decade until the surprise announcement of a fourth film.
Unfortunately, Puella Magi Madoka Magica fans will have to wait a bit more before watching following its delay to a new release date.
When is the release date of Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Walpurgisnacht Rising?
Puella Magi Madoka: Magica Walpurgisnacht Rising has been delayed to a Winter 2025 release date. Initially slated for a release in late 2024, Studio Shaft announced to fans that due to production issues, the movie will instead be released in early 2025. Fans have been waiting since 2021 for the movie’s release, so disappointment has become a part of their routine.
Even so, many felt 2024 was finally the year it would come out. Walpurgisnacht Rising teased the debut of a new magical girl who seemingly blends aspects of the characters Homura and Madoka. Countless theories have popped up regarding the potential new character. Some believe it’s Madoka herself, who gained aspects of Homura’s form and powers.
Others also wonder if the fourth movie is the conclusion of the franchise or the start of a new story. Interestingly, co-creator Gen Urobochi admits to having written the script for Walpurgisnacht Rising immediately after Rebellion. This means the plans for the story have been in development for a long time, which may explain why the film has taken so long to finish.
Still, a few more months are likely worth the wait for fans if it means getting a satisfying conclusion for the Madoka franchise.
