Code Geass: Akito The Exiled – OVA Review code geass Reading Guide – Oemiu
Code Geass: Akito The Exiled – A Journey Beyond Britannia: OVA Review & Reading Guide
The world of Code Geass is vast and intricate, a tapestry woven with political intrigue, mecha combat, and the enduring struggle for freedom. While the original series, *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion*, captivated audiences with its brilliant protagonist and thrilling narrative, the OVA series, *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled*, expands the universe, offering a different perspective on the same conflict. This article will delve into the *Akito the Exiled* OVA series, providing a comprehensive review and reading guide for those looking to explore this intriguing side story. We will explore the narrative’s strengths and weaknesses, its place within the wider *Code Geass* canon, and offer insights for both newcomers and seasoned fans.
A Different Battlefield: Setting the Stage for *Akito the Exiled*
*Akito the Exiled* diverges from the original series by shifting the primary focus away from Britannia and Area 11 (formerly Japan). Instead, the story unfolds on the European front, specifically in the war-torn regions of Europe. This new setting allows for a fresh exploration of the *Code Geass* universe, showcasing the global impact of Britannia’s expansionist policies. The European Union (E.U.), struggling against the might of Britannia, becomes the stage for a desperate fight for survival. The E.U. is portrayed as a coalition of nations on the brink of collapse, lacking the unified strength to effectively resist Britannia’s advancements. This contrasts with the unified Britannia, showcasing the complexities of geopolitical power and the challenges faced by those who oppose a seemingly unstoppable force.
The shift in setting also introduces a new cast of characters, each with their own motivations and struggles. Akito Hyuga, the protagonist, is a stoic and enigmatic soldier haunted by a tragic past. As a member of the W-0 unit, a special operations force composed of Japanese youths, he is thrust into perilous missions with a high mortality rate. His character arc revolves around his grappling with trauma, finding purpose in a seemingly meaningless war, and ultimately forging connections with his comrades. Leila Malcal, a former Britannian aristocrat who defects to the E.U., serves as a foil to Akito. Her idealism and desire for peace clash with the harsh realities of war, forcing her to confront the moral ambiguities of her choices. Together, Akito and Leila represent contrasting perspectives on the conflict, highlighting the complexities of loyalty, identity, and the pursuit of a better future. The supporting cast, including the members of W-0, each contribute to the narrative with their unique personalities and backstories, enriching the overall tapestry of the *Akito the Exiled* storyline. This distinct narrative approach is a noteworthy aspect of the *Code Geass* franchise, offering fans a broader understanding of the world beyond Lelouch’s immediate sphere of influence. One of the best parts of the anime is the realistic portrayal of war.
Knights of Britannia in Europe: The Story Unfolds
*Akito the Exiled* follows the exploits of the W-0 unit as they undertake covert operations against Britannian forces in Europe. The narrative is structured as a series of missions, each presenting unique challenges and showcasing the skills of the W-0 members. While the plot is episodic in nature, a overarching narrative gradually emerges, revealing the larger forces at play and the deeper motivations of the characters. The missions themselves are often filled with intense mecha combat, strategic maneuvers, and moments of personal drama, providing a compelling blend of action and character development. The narrative also explores the political machinations within both the E.U. and Britannia, exposing the corruption and self-interest that often drive decisions on the battlefield. This political dimension adds depth to the story, highlighting the complexities of war and the human cost of conflict.
The story delves into the nature of Geass, albeit in a different manner than the original series. While Lelouch’s Geass focused on absolute obedience, the Geass in *Akito the Exiled* manifests in different and more nuanced ways. Characters like Shin Hyuga Shaing, Akito’s brother, possess a Geass that influences events on a grand scale, creating chaos and manipulating the battlefield. The exploration of different Geass abilities expands the lore of the *Code Geass* universe, adding another layer of intrigue to the overarching narrative. Furthermore, the series subtly touches upon themes of identity, nationalism, and the psychological impact of war. Akito’s internal struggles with his past and his role as a soldier, Leila’s conflict between her Britannian heritage and her desire for peace, and the challenges faced by the W-0 members as they navigate a war-torn world contribute to the narrative’s thematic depth. The series is far different from *Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion* but still remains an action-packed mecha masterpiece. In many ways, *Akito the Exiled* provides a richer context of the world outside of Britannia. When searching for Code Geass media, it is essential to remember how all of these stories fit together.
Visual Spectacle and Sound Design: Technical Prowess
Visually, *Akito the Exiled* is a significant step up from the original *Code Geass* series. The animation quality is consistently high, with fluid character movements, detailed mecha designs, and stunning battle sequences. The use of CGI in the mecha combat is seamlessly integrated with the traditional animation, creating a visually impressive and immersive experience. The character designs, while retaining the distinctive *Code Geass* style, are also more refined and detailed. The environments are richly rendered, showcasing the devastation of war and the beauty of the European landscapes. The overall visual aesthetic of *Akito the Exiled* is a testament to the advancements in animation technology and the artistry of the production team.
The sound design in *Akito the Exiled* is equally impressive. The soundtrack, composed by Akira Senju, perfectly complements the mood and atmosphere of the series. The music ranges from sweeping orchestral scores to driving electronic beats, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. The sound effects are realistic and impactful, adding to the intensity of the mecha combat. The voice acting, both in Japanese and English, is top-notch, with each actor delivering a compelling performance that brings their character to life. The attention to detail in the sound design contributes significantly to the overall viewing experience, immersing the audience in the world of *Akito the Exiled*. The series maintains the high technical standards of the *Code Geass* franchise, delivering a visually and sonically engaging experience. The blend of traditional animation and CGI creates a unique visual style, while the soundtrack effectively enhances the emotional impact of the story. A good visual is a cornerstone of the entire *Code Geass* series. When choosing an anime to watch, most anime watchers will choose one with good visuals.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Critical Examination
*Akito the Exiled* boasts several strengths that make it a worthwhile addition to the *Code Geass* universe. Its unique setting, compelling characters, and high production values are all significant assets. The series offers a fresh perspective on the war between Britannia and its enemies, showcasing the global impact of the conflict. The characters, particularly Akito and Leila, are well-developed and their struggles are relatable. The animation and sound design are consistently excellent, creating a visually and sonically immersive experience. The series also delves into complex themes of identity, nationalism, and the psychological impact of war, adding depth to the narrative.
However, *Akito the Exiled* also suffers from certain weaknesses. The episodic nature of the plot can make it feel somewhat disjointed, lacking the tightly woven narrative of the original series. The pacing can also be uneven, with some episodes feeling rushed while others drag on. Furthermore, the series relies heavily on exposition, which can sometimes feel clunky and detract from the immersive experience. Some viewers may also find the characters less compelling than those in the original series, particularly Lelouch, whose charismatic presence is sorely missed. The series is definitely unique, however, it does not always live up to the expectation of *Code Geass* fans. While *Akito the Exiled* expands the world of *Code Geass*, it does so at the cost of the tight storytelling and compelling characters that made the original series so successful. Despite these shortcomings, *Akito the Exiled* is still a worthwhile watch for fans of the *Code Geass* universe, offering a different perspective on the same conflict. The series provides valuable insights into the global impact of Britannia’s expansionist policies and explores complex themes of identity and the psychological impact of war. For the best viewing experience, consider exploring a reading guide of code geass to get your bearings.
| Feature | *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion* | *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled* |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Area 11 (Japan) and Britannia | European Union |
| Protagonist | Lelouch Lamperouge | Akito Hyuga and Leila Malcal |
| Plot Structure | Tightly woven, overarching narrative | Episodic, with a gradual overarching narrative |
| Animation Quality | Good, but dated by today’s standards | Excellent, with advanced CGI |
| Themes | Rebellion, Justice, Morality, Geass powers | War, Identity, Nationalism, Psychological Trauma |
Is *Akito the Exiled* Essential Viewing? Placing it in the *Code Geass* Canon
Whether *Akito the Exiled* is “essential viewing” depends on your level of engagement with the *Code Geass* franchise. For casual viewers who enjoyed the original series, *Akito the Exiled* offers a decent but non-essential extension of the world. It provides a different perspective on the conflict and introduces new characters, but it doesn’t significantly alter or enhance the core narrative of Lelouch’s rebellion. For dedicated fans of *Code Geass*, *Akito the Exiled* is a worthwhile exploration of the broader universe. It expands the lore of Geass, delves into the political complexities of the world, and offers a glimpse into the global impact of Britannia’s actions. While it may not be as captivating as the original series, it provides valuable insights and enriches the overall experience of the *Code Geass* universe.
It’s important to note that *Akito the Exiled* is a side story, not a direct sequel or prequel to the original series. It takes place concurrently with the events of *Lelouch of the Rebellion*, but the two narratives rarely intersect. Understanding this context is crucial for appreciating *Akito the Exiled* on its own terms. It’s not meant to replace or supersede the original series, but rather to complement it by offering a different perspective on the same conflict. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch *Akito the Exiled* comes down to personal preference. If you’re a casual viewer looking for a quick dose of mecha action, you may be satisfied with the original series. However, if you’re a dedicated fan eager to explore the *Code Geass* universe in greater depth, *Akito the Exiled* is a worthwhile addition to your viewing list. It offers a unique perspective on the conflict and enriches the overall experience of the *Code Geass* franchise. Considering a code geass rewatch can also benefit from the knowledge gleaned from Akito the Exiled. By considering it a supplement rather than a necessity, viewers can enjoy the experience without feeling obliged to consume every piece of content.
FAQ
What is *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled* about?
*Code Geass: Akito the Exiled* is an OVA series set in the same universe as *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion*. It follows the story of Akito Hyuga, a member of the W-0 unit, a special operations force composed of Japanese youths fighting against Britannia in Europe. The series explores the war from a different perspective, showcasing the struggles of the European Union and the global impact of Britannia’s expansionist policies. It also delves into the complexities of Geass, identity, and the psychological impact of war, offering a darker and more nuanced take on the *Code Geass* universe than the original series.
How does *Akito the Exiled* connect to the original *Code Geass* series?
*Akito the Exiled* takes place concurrently with the events of *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion*, but the two narratives rarely intersect directly. While the series shares the same universe, characters, and lore, it focuses on a different set of characters and conflicts in a different part of the world. Understanding this context is crucial for appreciating *Akito the Exiled* on its own terms. It’s not a direct sequel or prequel, but rather a side story that expands the *Code Geass* universe and offers a different perspective on the same conflict.
Is it necessary to watch *Akito the Exiled* to understand the main *Code Geass* storyline?
No, it is not necessary to watch *Akito the Exiled* to understand the main *Code Geass* storyline. The original series, *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion*, provides a complete and self-contained narrative. *Akito the Exiled* is a side story that enriches the *Code Geass* universe, but it doesn’t significantly alter or enhance the core narrative of Lelouch’s rebellion. You can enjoy and understand the original series without watching *Akito the Exiled*.
Is *Akito the Exiled* worth watching?
Whether *Akito the Exiled* is worth watching depends on your level of engagement with the *Code Geass* franchise. If you’re a casual viewer who enjoyed the original series, *Akito the Exiled* offers a decent but non-essential extension of the world. It provides a different perspective on the conflict and introduces new characters, but it doesn’t significantly alter or enhance the core narrative. If you’re a dedicated fan, *Akito the Exiled* is a worthwhile exploration of the broader universe. It expands the lore of Geass, delves into the political complexities of the world, and offers a glimpse into the global impact of Britannia’s actions.
What are the main differences between *Akito the Exiled* and the original *Code Geass*?
The main differences between *Akito the Exiled* and the original *Code Geass* include the setting (Europe vs. Area 11/Britannia), the protagonists (Akito and Leila vs. Lelouch), the plot structure (episodic vs. tightly woven), and the themes explored (war, identity, nationalism vs. rebellion, justice, morality). *Akito the Exiled* also features more advanced animation and CGI, and delves into the complexities of Geass in a different manner than the original series. Finally, the core theme is different, as the series showcases the power of brotherly love and the way it can manipulate world events.
Where can I watch *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled*?
The availability of *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled* may vary depending on your region and streaming services. It is often available on popular anime streaming platforms such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Hulu. You can also purchase the series on Blu-ray or DVD from online retailers such as Seller. Be sure to check the availability of the series on your preferred platform before attempting to watch it.
Are there any censorship issues?
Some streaming services may censor content depending on the region and the content policies, while others might not. To find information regarding content censorship issues, check reviews and community posts.
What is the recommended order to watch the *Code Geass* series?
The recommended order to watch the *Code Geass* series is as follows: 1. *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion* (Season 1), 2. *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2* (Season 2), 3. *Code Geass: Akito the Exiled* (OVA series), 4. *Code Geass: Lelouch of the Resurrection* (movie). While *Akito the Exiled* takes place concurrently with the original series, it’s best to watch it after completing the original series to fully appreciate its context and connections to the wider *Code Geass* universe. The *Resurrection* movie should be watched last, as it serves as a direct sequel to the original series. A reading guide of *Code Geass* can also offer insight into the world.
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