Entire major cast returned. It felt like Yukana (Tessa) and Yukino Satsuki (Chidori) immediately fell back into their roles.
Mao and Weber forever.
I started watching and immediately remembered the plot of the 2nd Raid even though it has been 13 years.

Ultimate hype!

edit: Xebec bridges the gap between Gonzo and KyoAni's animation styles.