By no means is this series perfect; at some points, Code Geass is predictable and cliche, but it makes up it's [few] flaws with everything else. It is definitely cliche and typical, but it's definitely worth the watch.
The animation is great. It's definitely not perfect, but adds to the story and gets better with each episode. The mecha battles are especially great, although it occasionally falters. Overall, animation and art is better than most out there.
Character designs by CLAMP are great, but have the usual CLAMP style; elongated legs, arms, etc.
Voice acting (Jun Fukuyama and Yukana escpecially) is great; it adds a sense of depth. The voice actors are superb; each adds life into the series. However, there are certain ones that falter when light shines onto their characters.
The music isn't terrible, but it isn't the best. Some openings are god-awful, while others are possibly the best out there. It does compliment the scenes, tho.
Some characters are completely cookie-cutter. CG is filled with fanservice, mechas, and possibly every sort of genre out there. However, as the series continues (also into the sequel, R2), the characters develop multiple aspects and depth. Characters seemingly shallow and predictable become more interesting and break out of the mold.
Enjoyment varies from person to person, especially because of the "Code Geass vs. Death Note" argument out there. I won't deny it doesn't have similarities, but it's not the same as Death Note. If you liked Death Note, you will most likely like Code Geass. It has plot twists, fights for "justice", and mecha fights.
Again, this series is far from perfect, but it's plot twists, characters, and overall theme left me with a sense of enjoyment when I finished watching it.
Definitely worth the watch!
