If it weren't for its unresolved and frankly rushed ending. I would've given this a 9. Though I do have a couple gripes. Of course they could've toned down the nudity in this series. It would've made it a little more enjoyable to watch. Also some of the characters could have been more focused on in the story, not that Kouta and Lucy aren't very entertaining to learn about, it would've helped to have some of the side characters glanced on a little more. Going back to its ending, I have to say it really wasn't the best way to end the series, relying on implication more than it should. But the ending was very heartwarming even though quite bittersweet.
Art: 9
The animation wasn't that eye catching as a whole, but it does stick out as pretty good at some scenes. I do have to give credit to the animation of the vectors: them being animated in CG makes them really creepy and menacing. The intro definitely has to be mentioned as being very pretty, albeit a little heavy on the nudity. Elfen Lied just looks gorgeous.
Sound: 10
This is probably the biggest draw for the series as it ranges from beautiful piano music that still keeps you thinking something is amiss, to music that really tells you that crap just hit the fan. It really sets an interesting atmosphere. The OP and ED aren't all that fitting, but those are just nitpicks and didn't bother me that much.
Characters: 8
A lot of the characters are very interesting with a lot of depth to them. You can't really tell if a character is truly good or evil. Even characters like Lucy and Bando are in reality not as heartless as they're made out to be. Heck even freaking Nyu deserves credit for not only being adorable as all hell, but having an interesting relationship with Kouta. Though the main antagonist ruined this from being really perfect. The worst thing he does to a character is friendly-fire on a side character. He doesn't do a whole lot and isn't that menacing either (except for being a huge jerk.) Said side character doesn't really serve much purpose either than to complain about not being able to bathe. I am very indifferent in terms of Yuka, though she is one of the better additions to a love triangle, (though being Kouta's cousin definitely raises eyebrows) she is overall not that memorable. There are very good characters but a couple bad characters as well
VERDICT
This anime was highly enjoyable to watch despite its flaws. If you're mature enough to handle the explicit content in this show. I highly recommend it.
8/10
Has glaring downsides, but many upsides as well
RECOMMENDATION: MEDIUM (Espescially considering the explicit content)
