Top 10 Best Code Geass Characters

Code Geass is packed with unforgettable characters. Some are masterminds playing an elaborate game of chess, while others are fierce warriors who throw themselves into battle without hesitation. Then you have the wild cards, the ones who seem unpredictable but always have a purpose behind their actions.

With so many distinct personalities, it's no surprise that fans have strong opinions about which characters stand above the rest. Maybe you're drawn to the brilliant tacticians who can manipulate a battlefield with a single command. Or perhaps you appreciate the loyal fighters who refuse to back down, no matter the odds. And let's not forget the eccentric minds, the ones who see the world differently and add a layer of unpredictability to every scene.

This list is all about celebrating those characters, and you have the power to decide who truly deserves the top spot. Vote for the ones that kept you on the edge of your seat, broke your heart, or made you think twice about right and wrong.

The Top Ten

Lelouch Lamperouge

A former prince of Britannia, Lelouch Lamperouge leads the rebellion against the Holy Britannian Empire as the masked figure Zero. He possesses the Geass power, which allows him to issue absolute commands to anyone who makes eye contact with him. His strategic brilliance and pursuit of justice drive the events of the war.

Lelouch is my favorite character of all time. Even though I knew that lots of the things he did were wrong, I couldn't help but root for him. You watch him develop from someone who wants revenge and to make the world better for his sister to someone who is willing to risk everything for the world and to make it a better place, even though the world and the people in it did nothing for him.
Lelouch sacrificed so much but got nothing in return. I have never cried over anyone so much before I watched this show. He said some amazing quotes and did some jaw-dropping things. The one you think cares the least loves the most.
Lelouch is unpredictable, spectacular, memorable, loving, and selfless, but he is undoubtedly flawed, and he is undoubtedly my hero.
C.C.

An immortal woman who grants Lelouch the Geass ability, C.C. serves as his enigmatic ally throughout the rebellion. She has a mysterious past tied to the origins of Geass and a contract that binds her fate to Lelouch. Her regenerative abilities make her nearly indestructible.

After all she's been through, I would proudly say that C.C. is the most powerful female anime character in terms of both physical and mental strength. The pain and agony of being killed thousands of times! She was tortured to death by various methods, was not loved by anyone, and was used by most - even Lelouch to a point. She wanted to be loved truly, not through obsession or force.
Lelouch later understood this and was able to fulfill her desire. Lelouch helped her in many ways. Lelouch and C.C. is the best ship in the anime universe. Too bad I don't know her real name.

I can best empathize with C.C.
I feel bad for her. She has gotten so much hate in her endless life. She must have hated herself, but near the end of R2, we got to see how C.C. has changed. She is more like a human being now, and I'm happy for her that she has found her happiness.
Suzaku Kururugi

The son of Japan's last prime minister, Suzaku Kururugi joins the Britannian military and becomes the pilot of the advanced Knightmare Frame, Lancelot. He believes in reforming Britannia from within rather than overthrowing it through revolution. His strong sense of justice often puts him at odds with Lelouch.

Easily one of my favorite characters of all time. He was so complex, and it was fun to watch him whenever he was on screen. He went from being a kind person doing his best to help beat the system while coping with killing his father to being hell-bent on fulfilling his duties and trying to justify his actions despite losing himself.

I think Suzaku is the best character for many reasons, the biggest reason being he is the voice of reason and, by extension, the moral compass, who occasionally goes astray because of Lelouch's actions. Despite what Lelouch was trying to do, he was still a cocky narcissist who flagrantly disregarded civilian lives, which is why I can never get behind him.
I also have personal issues with intelligent people who are cocky know-it-alls. Suzaku is a love-love character in my opinion, and Lelouch is a love-hate character no matter how you see it.
Kallen Stadtfeld

Kallen Stadtfeld is a highly skilled Knightmare Frame pilot who fights for the Black Knights under the name Kallen Kozuki. She comes from a Britannian father and a Japanese mother, leading her to navigate a dual identity between aristocracy and rebellion. Her loyalty to Zero remains unwavering despite moments of doubt.

The one purely normal person who manages to still be completely badass, often outshining those listed higher than her on this list, even though they have powers (Suzaku's physical abilities are a power in my opinion - dodging bullets).

I love my Kallen. She's just badass and would have stuck with Zero till the end.

Her courage, skill, and boobs are why I chose her.
Nunnally Lamperouge

Nunnally Lamperouge is Lelouch's younger sister, who is blind and wheelchair-bound due to political conspiracies within Britannia. She is the main reason for Lelouch's fight against the empire, as he wishes to create a peaceful world for her. Despite her perceived weakness, she later takes on a leadership role.

Nunnally gets the Hawking award for being chill and smart at the same time. Shirley is my second favorite, though Lelouch and the new guy Ash will probably win first from now on.
These are really sweet and nice to remember. A fantastic Fantastic Four Christmas with these characters around. Real good outlooks and well-behaved too. What else is positive? Marvel and Bandai make a fine team these days, like Paramount and Netflix should.
Anyway, pretty neat. Like The Malloreon and The Belgariad or whatever else by Tad Williams. Good stuff. Canada and Romania, our tale of two cities, likewise old-school Berlin with Paris. I'd relate this iconic group to a Jules Verne story. Good.
Jeremiah Gottwald

Once a devoted Britannian noble, Jeremiah Gottwald becomes obsessed with hunting Zero after his humiliation in battle. He is later transformed into a cyborg known as "Orange" through experimental cybernetic enhancements. His loyalty eventually shifts toward Lelouch after uncovering hidden truths.

Best character evolution in all of history! I always loved him because I'm always cheering for the underdogs, but seeing him get to the top after all his failures was very satisfying and enjoyable.
Orange is also 200% loyalty, which is amazing!

This guy is just the most awesome character, so underrated. He was just so loyal. Go Orange-kun!

Orange. Morals, integrity, loyalty, and somehow exactly the type of guy I'd love to have a beer with.
Shirley Fenette

A student at Ashford Academy, Shirley Fenette is one of Lelouch's classmates and harbors romantic feelings for him. She becomes entangled in the conflict after discovering his secret identity. Her fate is tragically altered due to her involvement with Geass-related events.

I disagree with the comment claiming she takes away from the plot. Shirley is a fantastic character, emphasizing the stark contrast between Lelouch's two lives. She beautifully represents the simple, carefree, peaceful world Lelouch must give up to pursue his goals. (C.C. is still Best Girl)

She understood that Lulu was alone and wanted to help despite everything he had done. She was a simple and normal character with perfect development throughout the series.

Plot-wise, she may not have fit in that well, but her personality was delightful and she was so adorable.
Lloyd Asplund

A brilliant but eccentric scientist, Lloyd Asplund is responsible for developing the advanced Lancelot Knightmare Frame. He serves as a chief engineer in the Britannian military and prioritizes science over human emotions. His detached personality makes him difficult to understand for those around him.

He's one of my favorite characters of all time. I love his attitude and he's also super handsome. Having no respect for anyone really makes him a great complement to Suzaku.

Absolute legend and certified arsehole. Doesn't care about anything but his machines. His carefree attitude and loyalty to his own desires is admirable.

My absolute favorite character. He is a self-proclaimed sociopath. That's what I love about him.
Milly Ashford

The energetic and mischievous student council president of Ashford Academy, Milly Ashford enjoys creating elaborate events for entertainment. She comes from a noble family that once had ties to the Britannian royal court. Despite her playful nature, she is aware of the political tensions surrounding her friends.

She's the one character that brings out a smile and laughter from me when I watch Code Geass. Thanks to her, the show has comedy and liveliness. I love her. Madam President, you're the best.

Very cool character, always smiled and brought a little humor to the show. I wish she had a more prominent role than just the comedic relief, though.
Rolo Lamperouge

Rolo Lamperouge is an assassin raised by Britannia and given a Geass ability that allows him to momentarily halt perception of time. He is assigned to pose as Lelouch's younger brother but develops genuine attachment to him. His devotion leads him to make extreme sacrifices.

My favorite character had always been changing as I watched the anime. It was always a competition between Lelouch and Suzaku. Well, that was what happened while I was watching R1.
When Rolo came into the series, I thought he was a cute kid and a nice younger brother. Don't misunderstand, that was what I thought before I found out that Rolo worked for Britannia. Before that, I thought he would be a nice character and that I would like him. After that, I was proved wrong. I didn't just like him. I loved him!
His Geass ability was truly awesome, maybe even better than Lelouch's. He received it when he was just six years old, and he was a pro at using it at that time too! "Ward of Absolute Suspension," wow!
But do you love someone just because of their abilities? Do you? It's his personality that makes him my favorite. The deeds he did, the intentions he had - those are the things that matter, right?
All his life he had been used. He knew nothing other than that. But he truly acknowledged the time he spent with his 'older brother' when Lelouch's memories were erased. And he was happy about it! He felt that his life hadn't been a waste. He felt that it was all good as he had finally witnessed some happiness!
He saved Lelouch when everyone had betrayed him, even though it cost Rolo his life. And he didn't do it under anyone's command or order. He did it of his own free will!
I'm glad that Lelouch finally acknowledged him as his younger brother. And Rolo was an awesome one too! I wish I had a younger brother like him. At his death, I was really sad, and I wanted nothing more than for Lelouch to avenge Britannia for what they did to Rolo. Well, indirectly it was they who killed him, right? But now that I think about it, Lelouch and Rolo wouldn't have ever met if it hadn't been for them, and Rolo would have never known what happiness was like. But it doesn't clear the awful things they did to Rolo and everyone else, does it?... read more

The Newcomers

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Andreas Darlton

A loyal Britannian general, Andreas Darlton serves under Cornelia li Britannia and is one of her most trusted officers. He leads military operations with discipline and expertise. His devotion to Britannia remains unwavering throughout his service during the Black Rebellion.

While he's a minor character, I feel like he doesn't get the respect he deserves.
He's a meritocratic man who doesn't believe in the discrimination that exists among many Britannians, even working under Cornelia. He's one of the few who showed Suzaku Kururugi respect, such as being the second to clap at his knighting. Not to mention the fact that his Glaston Knights are five of his adopted sons.
One of the most likable among the Britannians.
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David T. Darlton

The Contenders

Cornelia li Britannia

A high-ranking Britannian commander, Cornelia li Britannia is a formidable warrior and strategist. She has a deep admiration for her late mother and is fiercely protective of her younger sister, Euphemia. Her strong military presence makes her a major obstacle to the Black Knights.

She was Lelouch's first serious enemy and also his sister. Throughout the show, she had good intentions.

Cornelia was just so cool, a great sister and leader. She didn't deserve what she got.

She was pretty cool and probably my favorite female character in anime.
Rivalz Cardemonde

A student at Ashford Academy, Rivalz Cardemonde is a member of the student council and one of Lelouch's friends. He enjoys motorcycle racing and remains largely unaware of the larger political conflicts. His lighthearted personality provides contrast to the serious events unfolding around him.

I loved that guy. He was just so fun.
Euphemia li Britannia

A kind-hearted Britannian princess, Euphemia li Britannia strives for peace between Britannians and the Japanese. She attempts to create the Special Administrative Zone of Japan as a means of peaceful coexistence. Her efforts are tragically cut short due to unintended Geass activation.

Of course she was a little bit too idealistic, but her intentions were real and came from the bottom of her heart. Yes, she was naive but also smart, as she was the first person who realized Zero's true identity. She was so young. She would have become a good and wise adult. Also, she could break the Geass before her death because of her love for Suzaku. She deserved a better destiny!

She deserved so much better. I shipped her and Suzaku so much. She was the absolute kindest character in the whole show aside from Lelouch.
The way she treated Nina warmed my heart.
Schneizel el Britannia

A cunning strategist and high-ranking Britannian prince, Schneizel el Britannia serves as the empire's prime minister. He is one of the few individuals who can rival Lelouch in intelligence and manipulation. His cold pragmatism leads him to pursue absolute control under his vision of peace.

The only character in the show who was at the same strategic level as Lelouch (apart from maybe Charles). He was so cold, precise, and smart.
Also, so underrated. The perfect villain.

I don't see why he's so far down the list. He was, after all, the true "antagonist" of the series. Cool, caring, calculating, realistic, and a goddamn genius. Probably the most underrated character ever.

Cool, kind, and ruthless at the same time. He is the master of tactics and strategy. Only he had the potential to beat Lelouch, but unfortunately lost to Lelouch's Geass power.
Kaname Ōgi

A founding member of the Black Knights, Kaname Ōgi serves as a key leader in the resistance against Britannia. He prioritizes the safety of his comrades and has a romantic connection with Villetta Nu. His cautious nature sometimes puts him at odds with Lelouch's extreme tactics.

He was a good and determined fighter, yet kind and caring at the same time.
He strove to do the best, right thing down to the end. Zero made a great choice in making him leader of the Black Knights' fighting squad.
Gino Weinberg

A noble-born Britannian pilot, Gino Weinberg is a member of the elite Knights of the Round. He pilots the advanced Tristan Knightmare Frame and enjoys battle but values personal freedom. His cheerful personality contrasts with the rigid hierarchy of Britannia.

I feel like the Knights of the Round did not have enough screen time. Why is Gino my favorite character? He is easy-going and fun but at the same time serious and kind to fellow characters, especially Anya and Suzaku.

Gino is a funny, nice, but at the same time serious and easy-going character. I think that the Knights of Round did not get enough screen time compared to the others.
Li Xingke

A highly skilled strategist and warrior, Li Xingke fights for the independence of the Chinese Federation. He is loyal to Tianzi, the young empress, and opposes the corrupt Eunuch Generals controlling the government. His intelligence and combat skills make him a formidable ally and rival.

Honestly, this man is one of those characters who is so good at everything that they have to give him a shortened lifespan. He was crazy powerful and intelligent but still showed great loyalty towards his princess.
Rakshata Chawla

A brilliant engineer and scientist, Rakshata Chawla develops advanced Knightmare Frames and technology for the Black Knights. She previously worked alongside Lloyd Asplund but now supports revolutionary efforts. Her relaxed demeanor contrasts with her sharp intellect.

Honestly, what a savage. All of the scientists in this show are so carefree and quirky. Her funny character always makes me laugh.

She is the mastermind behind the Guren Mk-II and is AWESOME. Besides, she is so hot! I love her carefree attitude.

She is the mastermind behind the Guren Mk-II and she is AWESOME. And she is so hot! I love her carefree attitude.
Villetta Nu

An elite Britannian soldier, Villetta Nu initially hunts Zero but later becomes entangled with the resistance. She loses her memory and develops a relationship with Kaname Ōgi before regaining her past identity. Her loyalty and ambitions shift throughout the war.

She is the best example of a person changing into a more tolerant individual. I love these Japanese-Britannian couples who show the power of love and the unnecessary nature of war, distrust, and intolerance!

God, I hated her at first but grew to love her. Not Ohgi though. He's still lame.
Kyoshiro Tohdoh

A highly respected Japanese military commander, Kyoshiro Tohdoh is known as the "Miracle Worker" for his past victories. He joins the Black Knights to fight for Japan's independence and serves as one of their most skilled tacticians. His honor and loyalty define his leadership.

Absolute monster and terror in battle. Although his ability became seriously downplayed in the second season, he is a character necessary as the raw strength.
Diethard Ried

A former Britannian journalist, Diethard Ried joins the Black Knights due to his fascination with Zero's revolutionary charisma. He prioritizes spectacle and media influence over morality, seeing war as a grand stage for history-making. His devotion to Lelouch's cause is rooted in admiration rather than ideology.

Very interesting character to watch throughout the series. He has an interesting perspective.

Just an interesting character in general, whom I was surprised to not appear on this list. Cunning, fanatic, charismatic, and funny hairstyle in one package.

Super underrated character. A scene-stealer.
Shinichirō Tamaki

A passionate but reckless member of the Black Knights, Shinichirō Tamaki often acts impulsively. He admires Zero but lacks the strategic thinking of his fellow officers. His role is mainly as a frontline fighter rather than a decision-maker.

He's a hot-headed freedom fighter, but he's hot-headed for a good reason.
Mao

A Geass user with the ability to read minds, Mao becomes obsessed with C.C., whom he sees as his sole source of affection. His Geass is permanently active, leading to his descent into instability. He attempts to manipulate Lelouch but is ultimately outwitted.

His 3-episode arc was one of the most exciting parts of CG in my opinion. It was the first time Lelouch met another Geass user, and the rivaling fight between him and Mao forced Lelouch to employ the best of his thinking abilities, coming up with some of his best cons in the show.
Though he was short-lived, Mao served as a great antagonist for CG.
Leila Malcal

Leila Malcal is a fictional character in Code Geass: Akito the Exiled, a spin-off from the Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion anime series. She is a high-ranking military officer in the Europia United Army. Leila serves as the commander of the wZERO unit and plays a major role throughout the OVA series.... read more

She is one of the best characters in the entire Code Geass universe. She's very intelligent, strong (though a bit clumsy), and most of all, a good character.
It's difficult to find truly good characters, especially those in top levels of command, in Code Geass. She's highly underrated, as many didn't watch Akito the Exiled. She deserves to be in the top 10, maybe even the top 5.

Interesting and lovely character. It's heartwarming to see how she cares for Akito.

I love Leila so much. She deserves better.
Sayoko Shinozaki

The Ashford family's maid, Sayoko Shinozaki secretly works as a skilled ninja and loyal ally to Lelouch. She assists in covering for him at Ashford Academy while also executing covert operations. Her combat and infiltration skills make her an invaluable asset.

HEAVILY underrated character, in my opinion. Not only is she the most badass hand-to-hand combatant in the series, but she also remained loyal to Lelouch throughout the entire series. I don't know how she is not higher, to be honest.

The ninja caretaker is easily one of the most badass characters in this anime. Not only that, but the ninja vibe makes the show way better.