 Puella Magi Madoka Magica ( 魔法少女まどか ☆ マギカ , Mahō Shōjo Madoka Magika , " Magical Girl Madoka Magica " ) is a Japanese anime television series produced by Shaft and Aniplex . It was directed by Akiyuki Shinbo and written by Gen Urobuchi , with original character designs by Ume Aoki , character design adaptation by Takahiro Kishida , and music by Yuki Kajiura . The story follows a group of female middle school students who choose to become magical girls and must battle surreal enemies called witches . However , they consequently learn of the anguish and perils associated with their newfound roles . 
