When I first started watching NGE, I didn't know what to expect. It starts off like your typical mecha anime, but it soon deviates into a completely different beast, and that's why I love it so much.
Every major character in the show has plot relevance. The thing I liked the most is how the major characters either had some sort of mental issue or an intention that conflicted with other intentions, so it was a crazy anime all around. It starts off very simple, but like I just said, it soon deviates into a crazy, psychological mess due to all the mixed intentions and mental issues.
The whole "not your typical mecha anime" thing is very true too. The EVA's, the giant robots Shinji, Rei and Asuka pilot are one of the most interesting aspects of the show. The EVA's have an amazing backstory too. Watch it for yourself and see how it all plays out.
The music is something I have a soft spot for too. From my favorite track "The Beast II" to "Ode to Joy", the music just makes those "what the hell, that's insane!" moments even better! The music complements the series in such a great way, it's incredible.
The animation is dated, yes, but keep in mind that it came out in 1995, so that's excusable. It's not horrible, but it does show. Hey, the Rebuild movies have much better animation so that's one of the many pluses the Rebuild bring to the table. (Rebuilds are a good watch after NGE)
The plot is VERY confusing though. There is so much going on and so much terms are thrown at you that it becomes so much to contain that it's impossible to grasp all in one go. It is very well done though. Even one of the characters has a very interesting backstory. Like the EVA point I brought up, watch it and see.
So, if you're a fan of great action and very plot heavy animes, then NGE is for you. Overall, I love this series. Everything was so well done, it's no wonder it's classic among anime. Just prepared to be very confused. I highly enjoyed this show, and it is my favorite anime of all time. Also, watch "The End of Evangelion" after the series, or right after episode 24 then finish the TV series. You'll thank me later.
