[Raion]

I'd to start off with the usual:

I didn't grow up with the series, and started with the Rebuild series in college in 2013, soon after really becoming an anime fan. I really enjoyed the Rebuild series, so I watched the original and was underwhelmed, I even disliked it due to Shinji seeming even more like a pussy, and Asuka seeming to be a bitch for no reason.

Eventually, I recently rewatched it with my now-ex girlfriend (Long story, but she's a fan) and I enjoyed it.

It took me years to understand why I didn't like the original, but I now understood why I came to that conclusion: You shouldn't start with Rebuild. The overall differences are quite vast, and I think they each have their own charm.

Now that I fully understand Shinji and the reason that he's so fucked up, I was able to resonate with him. I also have to say EoE is a better ending than the TV version. The TV version is just... strange, but I can see the appeal. 

One person I don't really like is Rei, and the reason is because that she's too reserved. Being that she's... well I'm not gonna spoil it, but she's a unique individual, that explains why i prefer the Rebuild version of her. 

Asuka, however, I heavily resonate with for a variety of reasons. Namely, I understand exactly how a person would feel when their own mother would reject them for a doll. While that's not necessarily my situation, I have a very negative relationship with a parent of mine due to that parent's selfishness and general lack of understanding. 

Overall though, now that I understand the series, It's by far one of my favorites.

Let's talk about this more. What did you like about it? Have you seen Rebuild?