.gif "talk about sex by @frostsparks")
and I think the reasons have shifted slightly over time, but only a little. As a mecha show, it's already just inherently kind of cool, but I'm of the opinion that the mecha action is not the show's strong suit. Especially compared to other things that Sunrise have produced, C:G is kind of... quaint?
Side Note: I love that the mechs move in a unique way, as pointed out by @LowPolyRobot in a recent chost. The grapple hooks and funny little roller skates they all have are great.
But I think the real strength of the show is character. And for me personally, it's Lelouch that really sells it. When I first saw it ages ago, I was super into this angsty teen boy who used not just supernatural powers, but his unmatched wit to affect change. He filled the same sort of niche as a character like Light from Death Note, but in a way that was so much more fun. He fulfilled a power fantasy for a young egg that wasn't physically impressive, and lacked self-esteem.
When I look at Lelouch now, what I see is the most flamboyant anime villain of his day. He is reveling in his power, he is putting on a show, he is unabashedly loving the hold he has on people. And this dude is the protagonist, you get to root for him! How much fun is that?! He behaves like a deranged supervillain, but you know he's trying to create a brighter future for everyone. He's the best.
Meanwhile, Suzaku out here acting like the world's most dedicated neo-liberal. "I cAn ChAnGe tHe sYsTeM FrOm thE InSIdE." Get out of here with that weak shit.
