Halfway Point – Code Geass R2

Code Geass has just passed the halfway point with Episode 13 airing yesterday, so here’s an opinionated look at what has happened in the top half of the season, and one man’s expectations on what is to come.

Highlights:
The most enjoyable aspect of episodes 1-13 was probably the very brief screen time Kallen’s new Guren received. Geass has been touted as the mecha series for non-mecha fans. Nevertheless, knightmare frames are a key component in the overall plot of Code Geass, and it is absurd to assume that they do not significantly influence the enjoyment of watching this series. That being said, the introduction of the Guren Kashoushiki was particularly enjoyable because the upgrades seemed like upgrades. Additionally, the new Aerial Type was still designed with defense in mind, and unlike the Lancelot, had a lesser degree of God-modding.Disappointments:
Just about everything else. Instead of plugging in plot holes, it seems like more were punched out. For example, where were the Knights of Rounds in Season 1? At least a nod could have been made in their direction. The mecha, too, took a turn for the worse. With everyone gaining flight capabilities, the novelty value Geass had with the “robots on rollerblades” concept had disappeared. Furthermore, the ever-increasing combat capabilities of knightmare frames is reminiscent of corporate debt financing. In order to keep an indebted company afloat, executives must borrow more; in order to maintain the balance of power (and subsequently keep Geass afloat), machines must continuously receive stronger upgrades. However, sooner or later, both will be in too deep and the whole enterprise will come crashing down.Forecast:
This is probably the wildcard of the Spring season. The top half of Season 2 already has numerous plot twists – some for the better, some for the worse. However, it does have two saving graces: the return of Cornelia, and yet another upgrade for the Guren. I apologize for the poor image quality, since I recently switched from my desktop to a laptop, and a lot of software needs to be re-installed.

Actually, perhaps only one saving grace – Cornelia. I just have an obsession with the Guren.