The genre of "Ergo Proxy" is a unique conflation of diverse elements. Incorporating science fiction in a post-apocalyptic setting with cyberpunk, cyber-thriller, psychological, philosophical and Gothic themes, "Ergo Proxy" is essentially a character-driven drama that utilizes diverse themes to provoke thought. Alternating paces, from frantic chase scenes in dark city environments to slow, lonely travels through endless wastelands, provide stark contrast and blend the diverse elements of the story.
"Ergo Proxy" focuses around the lives of two main characters: Re-l (pronounced "Re-ell") and Vincent Law. Re-l is police detective investigating both the Cogito virus, which produces self-awareness in AutoReivs, and a peculiar murder--a rarity in the tightly-administered Romdo. Vincent Law is an immigrant who unwittingly becomes entangled in the murder case as a prime suspect. Meanwhile, a mysterious creature, known only as the "Proxy" manages to escape a secret government facility. These events propel Re-l and Vincent into a dangerous conspiracy and a search for the truth behind it all.
A prevalent theme of "Ergo Proxy" is the frequent contemplation by its characters of deep philosophical issues. Most significant to the story are the ideas of identity, solipsism and self-awareness. Various episodes focus almost entirely on the establishment of one's own identity, through either effort of will or continuity of experience or on the achievement of self-awareness, which sweeps through the AutoReiv population by means of the Cogito virus (the name derived from a Latin word meaning "I think") This word is famously part of Rene Descartes' assertion of self-existence--"Cogito ergo sum," meaning "I think therefore I am."
In addition to its philosophical elements, "Ergo Proxy" incorporates various psychological elements. Each of the main characters undergo a process of self-discovery--examining their own motivating factors and influences, their emotional impediments and their fears. The characters, particularly Vincent Law, constantly unveil deeper levels of their subconscious desires and hates.
"Ergo Proxy" received positive reviews from most critics and fans worldwide. Some fans voiced disappointment with the series' ending, claiming that it was anti-climactic and unnecessarily convoluted. Others complained that the series ended too soon and that production was rushed. Positive reviews, particularly for the unique premise, animation, style and genre, significantly outnumbered negative reviews.
Produced in Japan by Manglobe and aired on the WOWOW satellite network, "Ergo Proxy" was distributed to international markets by Geneon Entertainment and Funimation Entertainment. The show uses both 2D and 3D animation and features a soundtrack which layers chant, most notably the "Kyrie Eleison," on top of percussion and synthesized music--contemporary to the late 20th and early 21st centuries.