In the early stages of the series, it is extremely easy to dismiss it as not only derivative with how the main character is dumped in the pilot seat of a mecha without any preparation or warning, but also grotty with the off-coloured, sparsely detailed visuals. However, deception is a major theme in the story and as the plot unfolds at a confidently steady pace, it truly becomes a staggering quest for survival for a human race that was at a crossroads with their evolution. (And the artwork is arguably justified. I’m sure from watching the series it’ll eventually make sense that it could bedown to ‘system limitations’.)

The series is actually rather elegant in its delivery: The focus is kept firmly on the protagonists’ earnest defiance for free will. This is signified by the notably small amount of IDENTIFABLE enemies. In addition, the action, psychology and philosophy are reasonably present so that they don’t lumber the story. This makes for a tender piece which at the end—in the post-credits scene of the final episode—is very touching.