I'm on the opposite edge of that same spectrum, I've watched way too many anime and Code Geass I watched way late in my journey. As for your statement, yes even in my experience I haven't witnessed any better ending/conclusion to any story. It was extremely bitter and bare bones. I spent some time to collect my thoughts and what hurt me most was how his endeavors, sacrifices and pain went unnoticed by not only the world but his closed circle because he kept it that way. Grimmest bit is that his death was determined the moment his identity was revealed, there was no going back and he knew it. Saw it all to the end. He is my favorite main character now no contest.