Review of Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Side Story
I played the game both in US and JP version, I even watch all the anime and movie, I can conformity say that Magia Record anime isn't the best. The main problem is not the change in story or the overused music but the way it rushed the story. You will not find any happy slice of life or any dark stories, one of the things this anime does is rushed to get into the next chapter. When I say chapter, I mean it tries to fit very long stories that were into the game. Also, you get zero explanation on certain things, those arein the game not anime.
Story: The story is not the same, it does not follow the game version. There is also no care to the world building, lore settings and small details. If you wanted to see something the anime is not the right place to do. Many new additions were added; some made up while others aren't. Anime and game version are clashing each other with facts based on Pulla Madoka series. I can not recommend anyone to trust Magia Record anime, it has the most inaccurate world building.
Art: The art is perfect but many overlook the art and never consider looking deeper. Often times you may see odd things which is not a problem because Shaft is known to do that. However, if you looking for small details, forget it. Unlike Pulla Madoka and movies; Magia Record was rushed. There is nothing to zoom in or deep hidden easter egg.
Music/sound: Certain music and sound effects are from Pulla Magica or the movie. This also happens in the game so don't expect original songs. A DVD came out with a few songs, all ranging under 2 Minutes. If you like long music or want something new from Pulla Madoka this anime will not give you anything like that.
Characters: You will not fully understand the characters. The game version has the best way to understand them but when it comes to the anime characters you get what you see. The Best way to say about anime characters is that they just don't open up, what you see in anime is what you get. You also don't get to see certain characters, if you a game player and want to see a character you may not see them. One character a big one was never added, it didn't change my view of the anime score but I really did not like how Shaft treated her.
Enjoyment: Hated but also liked the art so really can't go on liking it or full on hating it. Will not recommend it because it just way to inaccurate. You will also find things you hate compare to the game version that has better or funner events. I really can not find any reason anyone would like it, battles are under 1 minute or less, Iroha character is mistreated by Shaft and story will confuse new as well as older Madoka fans.
Overall: I keep saying it but I keep saying has much has I can, I do not recommend Magia Record anime. The mistreatment of characters including my favorite is unacceptable. Story is inconsistent, you would need to play the game to understand what happen. The music is not original or brings anything new. Many made up stuff added to the anime for no reason. I just can't, I just can't give this anime any reason to make people watch it.