Initial D First Stage [Season 1]

Alright, let’s talk about Initial D First Stage—the anime that turned a tofu delivery boy into a street racing legend. If you’re into cars, adrenaline, or just stories about underdogs rising to the top, this 1998 classic is a must-watch. Let me break down why it’s still a fan favorite, even after all these years.

First off, the premise is simple but addictive. Takumi Fujiwara, a quiet high school student, spends his nights delivering tofu in his dad’s beat-up Toyota AE86 Sprinter Trueno. Little does he know, his daily drives up and down Mount Akina have turned him into a drift king. When local racers challenge him, Takumi’s hidden talent explodes onto the scene, and suddenly, everyone wants a piece of the “White Ghost of Akina.”

What makes First Stage stand out is its raw, gritty feel. The animation, while dated by today’s standards, has a charm that fits the underground racing vibe. The use of CG for the cars might look a bit cheesy now, but back in the day, it was revolutionary. Plus, the racing sequences are intense. You can almost feel the tires screeching and the engines roaring as Takumi takes those hairpin turns like it’s second nature.

The characters are another highlight. Takumi isn’t your typical anime protagonist—he’s quiet, unassuming, and doesn’t even care about racing at first. His growth from a reluctant driver to a confident racer is satisfying to watch. Then there’s his dad, Bunta, a former racer with a dry sense of humor and a knack for pushing Takumi to his limits. The supporting cast, like Takumi’s friend Itsuki and the rival racers, add depth to the story without overshadowing the main plot.

Now, let’s get real—this show is all about the cars. If you’re a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) fan, you’ll geek out over the AE86, the RX-7 FD3S, and the Nissan Skyline GT-R. The series doesn’t just show cars; it explains them. You’ll learn about drift techniques, engine modifications, and why weight distribution matters in a race. It’s like a crash course in car culture, wrapped in an anime.

But what do fans think? From what I’ve seen, First Stage is widely considered the best season. One user on MyAnimeList called it “the peak of the series,” and many others agree that it’s the most iconic. Some say later seasons have their moments, but First Stage is where the magic starts. The mix of thrilling races, relatable characters, and that nostalgic 90s anime aesthetic makes it a timeless classic.

Critics might point out the dated animation or the sometimes slow pacing, but those are minor flaws. The heart of Initial D lies in its passion for racing and the journey of a kid who never asked to be a hero. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for an exciting anime, First Stage delivers.

In conclusion, Initial D First Stage is more than just an anime—it’s a cultural phenomenon. It introduced a generation to JDM culture, drift racing, and the idea that anyone can be a legend if they’re willing to put in the work. So, if you haven’t watched it yet, do yourself a favor and hit play. And if you have, go back and relive the glory days of Takumi and the AE86. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Final Verdict: 9/10. A must-watch for anime and car lovers alike. The racing sequences are unforgettable, the characters are endearing, and the soundtrack? Let’s just say you’ll be adding those Eurobeat tracks to your playlist.

“I’m not a racer. I just deliver tofu.” — Takumi Fujiwara, but we all know the truth. 😉