I actually do compare this show to avatar a decent amount lol.
there is actually a lot the two share when you really get down to it, but that is because both are quality shows that are designed to build upon heavy lore with a mix of comedy and story.
avatar was obviously focused on story a bit more but steven universe is quickly catching up.
it was to be expected. Exploring the theme of if steven is more of a gem or human it was likely he was going to get a gem counterpart to connie. Just turned out it was peridot instead of lapis lol.
can't wait for him to fuse with peridot, I am curious how they go with that design.