Ep 1. Pilot

In "gen:LOCK" season 1 episode 1, titled "Pilot," viewers are introduced to a world that is years ahead of ours in terms of technological advancements. In this world, people can upload their minds and consciousness onto a shared network, which allows them to live beyond their physical bodies. However, this network is under constant threat from hackers and terrorists who wish to exploit its power.

The series follows a team of pilots who operate giant, humanoid robots called "Holons," which are used to combat these threats. The first episode focuses on the introduction of our main protagonist, Julian Chase. At the start of the episode, Julian is seen piloting a mech in the middle of a fight alongside his team. However, things take a turn for the worse when Julian's mech is damaged, and he is seemingly killed in action.

Cut to six months later, and we are introduced to a new character, Dr. Weller. Dr. Weller is a scientist who has been working on a project to create the perfect pilot, one who can fully synchronize with a Holon, giving them unprecedented power and control in battle. To achieve this, Dr. Weller has been hand-picking potential candidates from the various military branches, searching for the one who possesses the qualities he requires.

Enter Julian Chase, who is discovered to be alive and well thanks to a series of experimental procedures that have kept his mind and consciousness intact. Dr. Weller sees this as the perfect opportunity, and he recruits Julian to become the test subject for his project. However, Julian is initially hesitant, as he is struggling to come to terms with everything that has happened to him.

This is where we are introduced to the rest of the team, including the no-nonsense Miranda Worth and the cocksure Valentina Romanyszyn. We learn that all of the team members have their own reasons for joining the program, but they all share a common goal: to protect the network and defeat their enemies.

Throughout the episode, we see Julian undergo a series of tests, including a synchronicity test, which measures his ability to connect with a Holon. Julian struggles at first, but with the help of Dr. Weller and the rest of the team, he eventually succeeds. However, his victory is short-lived, as a shadowy figure manages to infiltrate their headquarters, causing chaos and destruction in their wake.

The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the team facing their first major battle as they attempt to repel the attacker. Overall, "Pilot" sets up an intriguing premise for the series, introducing us to a world that is both fantastical and grounded in reality. The characters are well-defined and interesting, and the animation is top-notch, making this a promising start to what looks to be an impressive series.