Initial D(1998 - 2014), an anime TV series about street racing, originated from the manga from the same title, is about a boy named Takumi Fujiwara who initially was an everyday tofu delivery driver for his father. He finds himself on unexpected turns(pun intended) and journey to become the best street racer after being introduced to the world of underground racing through his early morning deliveries.
The series consisted of six main seasons (called "stages") of Takumi's journeys, and each stage has their own core storyline. For the first stage, it's about how Takumi became a street racer while also showing his life as a high school boy, the second stage focuses more on the races, his racing skill improvements, and some intense drama. The third stage takes a unique approach, from being a TV series season to a movie. This stage is the stage that determines Takumi's future to the world of racing. The fourth, fifth and the final stage are about finding the purpose behind the Takumi's team, and eventually ending the series. For the first few stages, the animation and 3D models for cars are not as good, understandably being produced in the nineties. Despite that, the races still feel exciting and heart-grabbing every time. But the changes in art style throughout the stages may throw some people off. Some of the characters got their looks changed from the first stage into the second stage, for example Takahashi Keisuke, a friendly rival of Takumi. But one of the most praised elements of the series has got to be the soundtrack. Since the first stage, Initial D's Eurobeat has delivered a more thrilling experience to the races. Eurobeat is characterized by its rapid tempos and catchy rhythms, and acts as the perfect counterpart to the races that take place on the mountains. The engine sounds and background noises are well-made as well. The silent night in the mountains with some animal noises, broken by the roar of car engines screaming. And these engine sounds were particularly impressive because of their accuracy that closely resembles the cars used in the show. The anime isn't all about cars and racing either, in five main stages, we get to see Takumi bonding with other characters whether they be former rivals or friends. Despite his shy personality, he got a lot of friends because of his humbleness and skills. There were also romances and heartbreaks in the series, which creates stronger character backgrounds and passion behind the wheel.
In conclusion, Initial D is one of, if not, the best racing anime there ever is and ever will. Initial D is not just about mindless racing. It's about the passion to cars, friendship, heartbreaks, fails, successes and being the best. The Eurobeat soundtrack enhances the thrill in every race. Along with the nostalgic, retro art in the early stages, to the sharp, crisp, and beautiful animation in the last stages. It's a great anime for watchers who want good stories, but even greater for the gearheads.
