Despite similarities between Lelouch and Char Aznable from Mobile Suit Gundam, Taniguchi was more inspired by Kamen Rider in creating Lelouch and asked Ōkouchi to avoid Gundam-like characterizations.
Although Lelouch has elements in common with Char Aznable from Mobile Suit Gundam, Taniguchi based his creation on Kamen Rider and instructed Ōkouchi to create a character that differs from typical Gundam characters.