Code Geass: Akito the Exiled (2012–2016)

The Shadows Between Rebellions

Set between the events of the two main Code Geass seasons, Akito the Exiled explores the untold story of the European front. It reveals the struggles of soldiers caught in the chaos of war — where loyalty, loss, and fate intertwine with the power of Geass.

Season Overview

Title: Code Geass: Akito the Exiled
Episodes: 5 OVAs (each 50–60 minutes)
Air Dates: August 4, 2012 – February 6, 2016
Studio: Sunrise
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Prime Video
Opening Theme: “More Than Words” by Maaya Sakamoto
Ending Theme: “Alone” by Sakamoto Maaya

Story Summary

The series is set in Europe (the E.U. — European Union) during the same timeline as the original Code Geass series, between Season 1 and R2.

The story follows Akito Hyuga, a young Japanese soldier serving in the E.U. army’s “Wyvern Squadron.” Haunted by his past and cursed with a mysterious Geass, Akito leads a team of outcasts in a desperate mission against Britannia.

Amid deadly battles and political schemes, Akito’s path crosses with Leila Malcal, a kind-hearted officer who believes in peace, even as war consumes their world. Together, they must face impossible odds and the ghosts of their pasts.

Major Arcs Covered

• Mission to Britannia: The Wyvern Squadron embarks on a suicidal infiltration mission.

• Akito’s Past Revealed: The origins of Akito’s Geass and his traumatic history come to light.

• Leila’s Leadership Arc: Her idealism clashes with military pragmatism as she becomes a true leader.

• The Final Battle: The E.U. and Britannia collide in a spectacular conclusion that ties back to Lelouch’s rebellion.

Main Characters

• Akito Hyuga: A skilled yet tormented pilot cursed with a self-destructive Geass.

• Leila Malcal: An idealistic lieutenant who strives to protect her team from the horrors of war.

• Ashley Ashra: A ruthless Britannian commander obsessed with chaos.

• Ayano Kosaka, Ryo Sayama, Yukiya Naruse: Members of Akito’s Wyvern Squadron, each burdened by their pasts.

• Julius Kingsley: A mysterious Britannian strategist with a familiar face — strongly hinted to be connected to Lelouch.

Themes and Style

• War and Humanity: The brutal cost of survival on the battlefield.

• Fate and Identity: Can those defined by Geass escape its curse?

• Hope Amid Despair: Even in war, compassion can change destinies.

• Isolation and Trust: Soldiers from different worlds learning to fight as one.

Animation & Visuals

Sunrise delivers breathtaking mecha battles with detailed 3D animation and hand-drawn artistry. The dynamic combat sequences, particularly involving the Alexander Knightmare Frames, set new standards for cinematic mecha warfare. The atmospheric lighting and emotional music by Ichiko Hashimoto enhance its haunting tone.

Where to Watch

You can stream Code Geass: Akito the Exiled on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Prime Video

Popularity & Reception

While not as universally acclaimed as the main series, Akito the Exiled earned praise for its darker tone, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling. Fans appreciated its exploration of Geass outside Japan, enriching the universe’s lore and bridging the gap between Lelouch’s rebellions.

Final Thoughts

Code Geass: Akito the Exiled (2012–2016) expands the world of Code Geass with a more somber, war-driven tone. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally layered side story that deepens the universe — a must-watch for fans seeking to understand the global scope of the rebellion.