Code Geass: Akito The Exiled – OVA Review code geass Reading Guide – Oemiu
Code Geass: Akito The Exiled – A Divisive Yet Compelling Sidestory
The world of Code Geass is vast and complex, teeming with political intrigue, mecha battles, and characters whose moral compasses constantly spin. While Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion remains the undisputed cornerstone of the franchise, Code Geass: Akito the Exiled offers a different perspective, delving into the European front of the Britannian Empire’s expansion and introducing a new cast caught in the crossfire. This OVA series, released between 2012 and 2016, presents a darker, grittier take on the Code Geass universe, but also faces criticisms for its narrative choices and connection (or lack thereof) to the original storyline. This review and reading guide aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of Akito the Exiled, providing a comprehensive overview for both seasoned Geass fans and newcomers curious about exploring this sidestory. Whether you’re diving in for the first time or revisiting this polarizing entry, understanding its context within the broader Code Geass mythology is key to appreciating its unique, albeit flawed, contribution.
Stepping Onto the European Battlefield: A Different Kind of Geass Story
Akito the Exiled shifts the focus from Japan (Area 11) to Europe, specifically the E.U. (European Union), which is struggling against the overwhelming military might of Britannia. The protagonist, Akito Hyuga, is a young man of Japanese descent serving as a soldier in the E.U. army. He commands the W-0 unit, a suicide squad comprised primarily of Japanese youths forced to fight for a cause that isn’t entirely their own. This creates a stark contrast to Lelouch’s strategic brilliance and morally ambiguous choices. Akito operates under a different kind of pressure, one driven by survival and a mysterious past linked to the Geass power. The series doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutality of war, showcasing the devastating effects on both soldiers and civilians. The E.U. itself is portrayed as a fractured entity, riddled with internal conflicts and struggling to mount an effective resistance against Britannia. This provides a rich backdrop for exploring themes of identity, prejudice, and the cost of freedom.
One of the most compelling aspects of Akito the Exiled is its exploration of Japanese identity within a foreign land. The members of W-0, often treated as expendable assets by their E.U. superiors, grapple with their heritage and their place in a world dominated by Britannia. This struggle is further complicated by the introduction of Leila Malcal, a former Britannian noblewoman who joins the E.U. and becomes the commander of W-0. Leila’s idealism and desire to create a safe haven for Japanese refugees clash with the harsh realities of war, forcing her to confront the limitations of her own privilege and the complexities of the conflict. The dynamic between Akito and Leila forms the emotional core of the series, as they learn to trust and rely on each other amidst the chaos and despair. Their relationship is not romantic in the traditional sense, but rather a bond forged through shared trauma and a mutual desire for a better future.
Compared to the original series, the mecha designs in Akito the Exiled take a slightly different approach. While the Knightmares are still present, there’s a greater emphasis on realism and tactical combat. The Vincent Ward, Akito’s signature Knightmare, is a sleek and agile machine designed for close-quarters combat. The battles are often fast-paced and visceral, reflecting the desperate situation of the E.U. forces. However, the series also introduces new technologies and abilities, including the “Geass Canceller” and the mysterious “Code” powers possessed by Akito. These elements, while intriguing, sometimes feel disconnected from the established rules of the Code Geass universe, contributing to some of the criticisms leveled against the OVA series.
Code Geass: Akito the Exiled attempts to enrich the overall narrative by introducing new factions and expanding upon existing lore, however some view that it ultimately falls short of enhancing the original series. While it provides a glimpse into the European theater of the war and explores themes of identity and prejudice, the series struggles to connect its narrative to the central storyline of Lelouch’s rebellion in a meaningful way. Some viewers find the characters less compelling and the plot less focused compared to the original series, leading to a sense of detachment from the core Code Geass experience.
Navigating the OVA Structure: A Five-Part Journey
Akito the Exiled is presented as a series of five OVAs (Original Video Animations), each approximately 50-60 minutes in length. This format allows for a more deliberate pacing and exploration of character development, but it also presents challenges in terms of maintaining narrative momentum. The first OVA, “The Wyvern Arrives,” introduces Akito, Leila, and the W-0 unit, setting the stage for the conflict in Europe. It establishes the bleak atmosphere and introduces the key players in the E.U. resistance. The second OVA, “The Torn Wings,” delves deeper into Akito’s past and his connection to the Geass power. It also explores Leila’s motivations and her efforts to unite the W-0 unit under her command. The third OVA, “The Brightness Falls,” focuses on a critical battle between the E.U. and Britannian forces, showcasing the strategic prowess of both sides. This episode features some of the most visually stunning mecha combat sequences in the series.
The fourth OVA, “Memories of Hatred from Heaven,” shifts the focus to a psychological exploration of Akito’s trauma and his struggle to control his Code powers. It introduces a new antagonist, Shin Hyuga Shaing, Akito’s twin brother, who possesses a twisted version of the Geass. This OVA delves into the dark side of the Geass power and its corrupting influence on individuals. The final OVA, “To Beloved Ones,” brings the story to a climax, resolving the conflict between Akito and Shin and exploring the themes of forgiveness and redemption. It offers a sense of closure for the characters and hints at the possibility of a brighter future. However, the ending also leaves some questions unanswered, particularly regarding the broader implications of the events in Europe on the overall Code Geass timeline.
The OVA structure allows for detailed exploration of certain themes and characters, it can lead to pacing issues, with some episodes feeling slower or less impactful than others. The extended length of each episode also requires a greater commitment from the viewer, which can be a deterrent for those unfamiliar with the Code Geass franchise. Furthermore, the release schedule of the OVAs was somewhat sporadic, with significant gaps between episodes, which may have contributed to the series’ mixed reception. Despite these challenges, the OVA format does allow for a greater level of visual detail and animation quality compared to the original TV series. The mecha battles are particularly impressive, with fluid animation and dynamic camera angles.
In comparing Akito the Exiled to other Code Geass entries, it’s essential to acknowledge its unique position within the franchise. While it shares thematic similarities with the original series, such as the exploration of power, identity, and the consequences of war, it also diverges in its tone and focus. The OVA series is arguably darker and more introspective than the original, with a greater emphasis on psychological trauma and the struggles of individual soldiers. While Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion focuses on Lelouch’s grand strategies and revolutionary ambitions, Akito the Exiled delves into the more intimate and personal experiences of those caught in the crossfire.
Character Dynamics and Development: Forging Bonds Amidst Chaos
The characters in Akito the Exiled, while distinct from the cast of the original series, offer compelling perspectives on the themes of war and identity. Akito Hyuga, the stoic and enigmatic protagonist, carries the weight of a tragic past and struggles to control his Code powers. His interactions with Leila Malcal, the idealistic commander of W-0, form the emotional core of the series. Leila’s unwavering belief in the potential for good clashes with Akito’s cynicism and fatalism, creating a dynamic tension that drives their character development. The members of W-0, each with their own unique backgrounds and motivations, add depth to the narrative, highlighting the diverse experiences of Japanese individuals living in Europe. From the hardened veterans to the naive recruits, each character contributes to the overall themes of identity, prejudice, and the search for belonging.
Shin Hyuga Shaing, Akito’s twin brother, serves as a compelling antagonist, embodying the dark side of the Geass power. His twisted version of the Geass grants him the ability to manipulate the minds of others, turning them into his puppets. Shin’s motivations are rooted in a deep-seated resentment towards Akito and a desire to destroy everything that he holds dear. His presence adds a layer of psychological horror to the series, forcing Akito to confront his own inner demons and the potential for darkness within himself. The supporting characters, such as Ayano Kosaka and Yukiya Naruse, members of W-0, provide further insight into the challenges faced by Japanese soldiers in the E.U. Ayano’s fierce loyalty and Yukiya’s strategic mind contribute to the unit’s effectiveness in battle. Their personal struggles and sacrifices highlight the human cost of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
In analyzing the characters, it’s important to consider their motivations and their relationships to one another. Akito’s initial detachment and reluctance to form bonds are gradually overcome as he develops a sense of camaraderie with the members of W-0. Leila’s unwavering optimism and her commitment to creating a safe haven for Japanese refugees inspire Akito to believe in the possibility of a better future. The conflict between Akito and Shin, both physically and psychologically, forms the climax of the series, forcing them to confront their shared past and their opposing ideologies. The character dynamics in Akito the Exiled are complex and nuanced, reflecting the multifaceted nature of war and the human condition.
While the characters in Akito the Exiled are well-developed within the context of the OVA series, some viewers find them less memorable or impactful compared to the characters in the original Code Geass. Lelouch Lamperouge’s charisma and strategic brilliance set a high bar for protagonists, and Akito’s more reserved and introspective nature may not appeal to all viewers. Similarly, the supporting cast in the original series, with their complex relationships and diverse personalities, often overshadows the characters in Akito the Exiled. However, it’s important to recognize that the OVA series is a different kind of story, with a different set of priorities. The focus on the individual experiences of soldiers in the European theater allows for a more intimate and personal exploration of the themes of war and identity, which may resonate with some viewers more than others.
Connecting Akito to the Geass Universe: Continuity and Divergences
Integrating Akito the Exiled into the established Code Geass universe requires careful consideration of its timeline and its connections to the original series. The OVA series takes place between the two seasons of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, filling in some of the gaps in the timeline and providing a glimpse into the European front of the Britannian Empire’s expansion. While the series does not directly involve Lelouch or the Black Knights, it does feature some familiar elements, such as the Knightmares and the Geass power. The appearance of Julius Kingsley, a brainwashed Lelouch, further establishes the connection to the original series, although his role is relatively minor.
However, Akito the Exiled also introduces some elements that diverge from the established lore of the Code Geass universe. The “Code” powers possessed by Akito and Shin, which grant them abilities beyond the typical Geass, are not fully explained and may contradict some of the established rules of the Geass system. The “Geass Canceller,” a technology developed by the E.U. to nullify the effects of the Geass, also raises questions about the consistency of the Geass powers within the broader Code Geass mythology. These divergences have led to some criticisms from fans who feel that the OVA series undermines the integrity of the original series.
Despite these inconsistencies, Akito the Exiled does offer some valuable insights into the broader Code Geass universe. The series expands upon the political landscape of the world, showcasing the struggles of the E.U. against the Britannian Empire. It also explores the themes of identity and prejudice in a more nuanced way, highlighting the experiences of Japanese individuals living in a foreign land. Furthermore, the OVA series introduces new characters and technologies that could potentially be incorporated into future Code Geass projects. While Code Geass: Akito the Exiled may not be essential viewing for all Code Geass fans, it does offer a unique perspective on the Code Geass world and provides a deeper understanding of its complexities.
When assessing Code Geass: Akito the Exiled it is important to consider the context of its production and its intended audience. The OVA series was released several years after the original Code Geass series, and it was intended to appeal to both existing fans and newcomers to the franchise. The decision to set the series in Europe, with a new cast of characters, was likely intended to broaden the appeal of the franchise and to explore new themes and ideas. However, this approach also risked alienating some fans who were primarily interested in the story of Lelouch and the Black Knights. Ultimately, the success of Akito the Exiled depends on the individual viewer’s expectations and their willingness to embrace a different kind of Code Geass story.
| Feature | Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion | Code Geass: Akito the Exiled |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Japan (Area 11) | Europe (E.U.) |
| Protagonist | Lelouch Lamperouge | Akito Hyuga |
| Themes | Revolution, Justice, Morality | Survival, Identity, Prejudice |
| Mecha Design | More fantastical, emphasis on unique abilities | More realistic, emphasis on tactical combat |
| Connection to Main Story | Central narrative | Sidestory, tangential connections |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Code Geass: Akito the Exiled worth watching?
Whether Akito the Exiled is worth watching depends largely on your expectations and what you’re looking for in a Code Geass story. If you’re expecting a direct continuation of Lelouch’s story or a similar level of political intrigue, you might be disappointed. However, if you’re open to a darker, more introspective take on the Code Geass universe, with a focus on individual struggles and the horrors of war, then it could be a worthwhile experience. The animation quality is generally high, and the mecha battles are well-executed. The characters, while not as iconic as Lelouch and company, are still compelling in their own right. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference.
Where does Akito the Exiled fit in the Code Geass timeline?
Akito the Exiled takes place between the two seasons of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion. The events of the OVA series occur roughly concurrently with the latter half of the first season and the beginning of the second season of the original series. This means that while Lelouch is leading the Black Knights in Japan, Akito and the W-0 unit are fighting their own battles in Europe. The series does not directly intersect with the main storyline, but it does provide some context for the broader political landscape of the Code Geass world. It shows that Britannia’s expansion is not limited to Japan and that there are other pockets of resistance around the globe.
How does Akito the Exiled connect to Lelouch’s story?
The connections between Akito the Exiled and Lelouch’s story are primarily tangential. While the series does not directly involve Lelouch or the Black Knights for the most part, there are a few instances where their paths cross indirectly. Julius Kingsley, a brainwashed Lelouch, makes an appearance in the OVA series, serving as a Britannian strategist. This appearance is brief and does not significantly impact the plot of Akito the Exiled, but it does serve as a reminder of the events unfolding in Japan. The series also explores the broader implications of Britannia’s actions on a global scale, providing a wider context for Lelouch’s rebellion.
Are the new Geass powers in Akito the Exiled consistent with the original series?
The Geass powers introduced in Akito the Exiled, particularly the “Code” powers possessed by Akito and Shin, are a point of contention among Code Geass fans. Some viewers feel that these powers are inconsistent with the established rules of the Geass system in the original series. The “Code” powers grant Akito and Shin abilities beyond the typical Geass, such as immortality and the ability to manipulate the minds of others on a grand scale. These abilities are not fully explained and may contradict some of the established lore of the Geass. However, it’s important to note that the Code Geass universe has always been somewhat ambiguous and open to interpretation. The introduction of new powers and abilities in Akito the Exiled can be seen as an attempt to expand upon the existing lore and to explore new possibilities within the Code Geass world.
Who is the main antagonist in Akito the Exiled?
The main antagonist in Akito the Exiled is Shin Hyuga Shaing, Akito’s twin brother. Shin possesses a twisted version of the Geass that grants him the ability to manipulate the minds of others, turning them into his puppets. His motivations are rooted in a deep-seated resentment towards Akito and a desire to destroy everything that he holds dear. Shin’s presence adds a layer of psychological horror to the series, forcing Akito to confront his own inner demons and the potential for darkness within himself. The conflict between Akito and Shin forms the climax of the series, as they battle both physically and psychologically to resolve their shared past and their opposing ideologies.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of Akito the Exiled?
Akito the Exiled has several strengths, including its high-quality animation, its exploration of the European front of the Britannian Empire’s expansion, and its focus on individual struggles and the horrors of war. The characters, while not as iconic as those in the original series, are still compelling and well-developed. However, the series also has some weaknesses, including its tangential connection to the main storyline, its inconsistencies with the established Geass lore, and its slower pacing compared to the original series. The OVA structure, while allowing for greater detail and character development, can also lead to pacing issues. Ultimately, the success of Akito the Exiled depends on the individual viewer’s expectations and their willingness to embrace a different kind of Code Geass story.
Is it necessary to watch Akito the Exiled to understand the rest of the Code Geass franchise?
No, it is not necessary to watch Akito the Exiled to understand the rest of the Code Geass franchise. The OVA series is a sidestory that does not directly impact the main narrative of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion. While it does provide some context for the broader political landscape of the Code Geass world and introduces some new characters and technologies, it is not essential viewing for understanding the core story of Lelouch’s rebellion. However, if you are a completionist or a dedicated Code Geass fan, you may find Akito the Exiled to be a worthwhile addition to your viewing experience. It offers a different perspective on the Code Geass universe and provides a deeper understanding of its complexities.
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