Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion – Season 1 (2006)

The Rise of the Black Prince

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion Season 1 introduces us to a world of political intrigue, rebellion, and mecha warfare. This first chapter follows Lelouch Lamperouge’s transformation from a brilliant student into a masked revolutionary seeking vengeance and justice in a world ruled by tyranny.

Season 1 Overview

Title: Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion – Season 1
Episodes: 25
Air Date: October 5, 2006 – July 28, 2007
Studio: Sunrise
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
Opening Themes: “Colors” by FLOW
Ending Themes: “Yuukyou Seishunka” by Ali Project

Story Summary

In an alternate future where the Holy Britannian Empire has conquered Japan and renamed it Area 11, former prince Lelouch vi Britannia lives under a false identity. After gaining the mysterious power of Geass from a girl named C.C., Lelouch gains the ability to command absolute obedience.

Determined to destroy Britannia from within, Lelouch becomes the masked vigilante Zero, leading the resistance group known as the Black Knights. But as his rebellion grows, Lelouch faces betrayal, moral conflict, and the heavy cost of revolution.

Major Arcs Covered

• Rebellion Begins Arc: Lelouch’s awakening of Geass and rise as Zero.

• Black Knights Formation Arc: The creation of a movement against Britannian oppression.

• Euphemia and the SAZ Arc: A tragic twist that changes the course of the war.

• Battle for Tokyo Arc: Intense political and emotional battles culminating in a shocking finale.

Main Characters

• Lelouch vi Britannia / Zero: A genius strategist seeking to avenge his mother and create a peaceful world for his sister.

• C.C.: The immortal woman who grants Lelouch his Geass and serves as his enigmatic partner.

• Suzaku Kururugi: Lelouch’s childhood friend and rival who fights for justice within the Britannian system.

• Kallen Stadtfeld: A fierce pilot and loyal member of the Black Knights.

• Nunnally vi Britannia: Lelouch’s kindhearted sister and the reason behind his rebellion.

Themes and Style

• Power and Consequence: The burden of absolute authority.

• Morality and Justice: How far can one go for a better world?

• Identity and Duality: The conflict between Lelouch the student and Zero the revolutionary.

• Political Intrigue and War: A tactical narrative of rebellion and sacrifice.

Animation & Visuals

Produced by Sunrise, Code Geass features stunning mecha designs, dramatic battles, and expressive character animation. The dynamic direction and symbolic use of color amplify Lelouch’s dual life and emotional turmoil.

Where to Watch

You can stream Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion – Season 1 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Amazon Prime Video
  

Popularity & Reception

The first season became a cultural phenomenon for its unpredictable story, moral complexity, and memorable characters. Its mix of strategy, mecha action, and emotional storytelling captivated audiences worldwide and set a new standard for anime drama.

Final Thoughts

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006) is a masterclass in storytelling — a gripping tale of rebellion, tragedy, and intellect. With its unforgettable characters and iconic ending, it stands among the most influential anime of its generation.