I went into the show with absolutely zero knowledge of the game(s) and still was able to enjoy it quite a lot. Some of the visuals are really pretty and the music slaps. The characters, especially Alcor, are what really made the show. The relationship between Alcor, Hibiki and Yamato is what especially stood out to me. The supportive characters are alright as well, not super amazing but also not extremely annoying. I also really really enjoyed the ending of the show. In general I'd say that the show gets better as the episodes go on and the story progresses. Also, yes, it does show similarities to Evangelion butit is still very, very much different from it.
Over all I'd say that the anime is indeed no master piece BUT in my opinion very well suited for a casual watch.