Bushiroad Games has announced it is developing the first visual novel based on Kore Yamazaki’s popular manga series, The Ancient Magus’ Bride. Titled Mahō Tsukai no Yome : Seika no Maboroshi to Yumemiru Tabiji (The Ancient Magus’ Bride: The Phantom Midsummer and the Dreaming Journey), the game is slated for release on Nintendo Switch in 2025.
A New Chapter for The Ancient Magus’ Bride
The Ancient Magus’ Bride has captivated audiences with its unique blend of dark fantasy, mystery, and supernatural romance. The manga, which launched in 2013, tells the story of Chise Hatori, an orphaned teenager who is sold at an auction and purchased by Elias Ainsworth, a magus with the head of an animal skull. Elias takes Chise as his apprentice and promises to make her his bride, leading her into a world of magic, fairies, and dragons.
From Manga to Anime and Beyond
The series has already spawned a successful anime adaptation, including a three-part prequel OVA series by Wit Studio from 2016 to 2017, and a television anime series that aired from 2017 to 2018. Studio Kafka produced a second three-part OAD series from 2021 to 2022, along with a second season of the anime that aired in two parts in 2023. The upcoming visual novel represents another exciting expansion of the Ancient Magus’ Bride universe.
The Phantom Midsummer and the Dreaming Journey: What to Expect
While details about the plot of The Phantom Midsummer and the Dreaming Journey are currently scarce, the title suggests a storyline filled with mystery and enchantment. Visual novels typically feature branching narratives, allowing players to make choices that influence the story’s outcome. Fans can likely expect to delve deeper into the lore of The Ancient Magus’ Bride, explore the relationships between its characters, and experience new adventures in its magical world.
Possible Release on More Platforms
While the initial announcement focuses on a Nintendo Switch release, indications from a teaser trailer suggest that PlayStation 5 and PC (via Steam) versions may also be in the works. A possible release date of October 2 in Japan has also been mentioned, although this information remains unconfirmed.
The Enduring Appeal of The Ancient Magus’ Bride
The Ancient Magus’ Bride has resonated with readers and viewers for its compelling characters, intricate world-building, and emotional depth. Kore Yamazaki’s artwork is highly detailed, bringing the magical world and its inhabitants to life. The story explores themes of belonging, identity, and the search for love and acceptance.
Yamazaki’s Vision
Kore Yamazaki launched The Ancient Magus’ Bride manga in Mag Garden’s Monthly Comic Blade magazine in 2013. After the magazine ceased publication in 2014, the manga moved to Monthly Comic Garden. The manga went on hiatus in March 2023 after the “Gakuin” (College) arc concluded. It resumed in December 2023 with a new “Shishigari” (Beast Hunting) arc on Bushiroad Works’ Comic Growl manga website.
Availability in English
Seven Seas Entertainment licenses the manga in North America. Bushiroad is using AI translation by Mantra to release the manga simultaneously in English and Japanese.
Awaited Release
The upcoming visual novel promises to be a treat for fans of The Ancient Magus’ Bride, offering a new way to engage with the beloved series. As more information becomes available, fans eagerly await the opportunity to embark on The Phantom Midsummer and the Dreaming Journey.
