Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch / Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion /コードギアス 反逆のルルーシュ ; 2 x 25 episodes a 20minutes ; aired from April to September 2008 ; Action, Mecha, Super Power, Military ; licensed by FUNimation and Bandai Entertainment
Code Geass is a classic, a must watch. The story very much follows a general idea often seen in books, movies and series: a normal human obtains a power to then use it for a greater good, mostly his own ideals. Code Geass executes this idea masterfully, creating a series which stays in the memories of its viewers forever. Furthermore (minor spoilers) it discusses and puts light on the very real threats of a worldwide nuclear war, the usage if lies and dishonesty in modern politics and basics of today's politics and terrorism. An exceptionally superb show, this is a must-watch for every anime fan.
Story: 10/10
As I already said, the generic plotline of someone obtaining a superpower to then take on the world and turning it on its head is nothing new. Yet Code Geass manages to bring a psychologic discussion into this, putting up the enforcement of ideals of peace and equality against the unrightful push of said ideals on the nonwilling people and the nonchangeable flow of time and the world. The various character relations and well chosen cliffhangers and plot twists make for an awesome storyline who just cries to be binge-watched.
Art: 9/10
Being a relatively old anime from 2008 the show still has pretty good art that can definitely keep up with modern shows. The fight scenes are well animated, especially in the Knightmare one-on-ones. Sometimes I wish they'd have put more thought and detail into certain areas (C's World) but still pretty good overall.
Sound: 9/10
The background music was very fitting, just what you would expect. Underlining the tone of the series, especially the Nunnaly OST #25 was great. The first OP and ED were very good, while the 2nd ones felt a bit out of place.
Character: 10/10
Lelouch's character traits, psychological and mundane beliefs and ideals are what every person in their early teen years wants to be and follow (in a reasonable extent). The discussion of world peace, evil, discrimination and happiness is well portrayed in the different characters and encourages a own discussion and dispute about morals and politics. The show also takes a good mix of entertaining Slice of Life (school episodes) to then turn back to a more serious and bigger tone.
Enjoyment: 10/10
Controlling the world, the struggles and the fights for it: probably the most discussed theme in the head of every single person. What am I ready to give up in order to get what I want? Is whatever I am doing for a greater good right, put in perspective of a single eye? Code Geass shows these conflicts within Lelouch and the various characters, also illustrating the whole concept of honesty and lies, world politics and threats. Lelouch can be considered a genius: He more than once managed to predict the exact reactions of his counterparts to then react accordingly. His unique character mixed with the colorful and widespread themes and character types of the show makes an awesome and very enjoyable series.
Overall: 10/10
"In front of the greater picture, the tears of those who have lost their loves ones are the only thing that remains." Code Geass is awesome and excels in a lot of aspects. There isnt a single person who won't like this series, which is also reflected in the ratings. I suggest everyone to watch both seasons, atleast once.
I realize that this review might be a bit confusing, but I'm still done and over after finishing this series. It's awesome and I can see myself in a lot of Schneizels, Ohgis, Kallens and Lelouchs ideals, hence an objective view is very hard to give from my part! :D TL;DR: Watch it its awesome.
