Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006–2008)

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006–2008)

Rise of Zero and the Birth of Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is the original and most iconic version of the saga — a gripping mix of rebellion, intellect, and sacrifice. Across two seasons, it tells the complete story of Lelouch vi Britannia’s war against tyranny, concluding with the legendary Zero Requiem ending.



Anime Overview

Title: Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Japanese Title: コードギアス 反逆のルルーシュ (Kōdo Giasu: Hangyaku no Rurūshu)
Studio: Sunrise
Original Concept: Created by Gorō Taniguchi & Ichirō Ōkouchi
Genres: Action, Mecha, Drama, Psychological, Military, Sci-Fi
Seasons: 2 (2006–2008)
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video


Story Summary

Set in an alternate future, the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered Japan, renaming it Area 11. Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince, receives a mysterious power called Geass from a girl named C.C., granting him the ability to command anyone absolutely.

Under the masked identity of Zero, Lelouch forms a rebellion to overthrow Britannia and create a peaceful world for his sister, Nunnally.
But his genius and ambition come with heavy consequences — forcing him to question the cost of justice, power, and love.

Code Geass blends high-stakes strategy, emotional storytelling, and moral complexity, making it one of the most celebrated anime of all time.


Major Arcs & Adaptations


Movie Universe (Alternate Timeline)


Main Characters

  • Lelouch vi Britannia / Zero: The brilliant tactician leading a rebellion against his father’s empire.

  • C.C.: The immortal witch who grants Lelouch the Geass.

  • Suzaku Kururugi: Lelouch’s best friend and rival, serving Britannia from within.

  • Kallen Stadtfeld: A passionate pilot fighting for Japan’s freedom.

  • Nunnally vi Britannia: Lelouch’s blind and kind-hearted sister, his reason for fighting.


Themes & Style

  • Rebellion vs. Order: The price of revolution and peace.

  • Morality & Power: When justice becomes tyranny.

  • Identity & Duality: Lelouch’s struggle between his ideals and his humanity.

  • Sacrifice & Redemption: Every victory comes with a cost.


Animation & Music

Produced by Sunrise and designed by CLAMP, Code Geass features stunning mecha battles, expressive art, and detailed political settings. The soundtrack by Kotaro Nakagawa and Hitomi Kuroishi elevates the emotional impact — with opening themes by FLOW becoming timeless classics.


Where to Watch

You can stream Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion on:


Popularity & Reception

Code Geass remains one of anime’s greatest masterpieces — praised for its writing, emotional depth, and shocking twists. It received the Tokyo International Anime Fair’s Best TV Anime Award and continues to influence mecha and psychological genres worldwide.


Similar Anime Recommendations

If you enjoyed Code Geass, here are five more anime you’ll love:

  • Psycho-Pass (2012) – A futuristic society ruled by technology and moral dilemmas.
  • Akira (1988) – A cyberpunk classic exploring power and chaos.
  • Guilty Crown (2011–2012) – A teenager gains the power to fight a totalitarian regime.
  • 86 – Eighty-Six (2021–2023) – A tragic war story of rebellion, prejudice, and sacrifice.


Final Thoughts

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is more than a mecha anime — it’s a philosophical and emotional journey about rebellion, sacrifice, and what it means to be human. With its perfect ending and unforgettable characters, it remains an essential masterpiece every anime fan should experience.

Comments