Overtake is a recent anime that has garnered attention for its portrayal of the Japanese F4 Championship and the thrilling nature of racing, which has captured the excitement of many viewers. This excitement is an integral part of racing, with its speed, adrenaline, and intense competitive spirit making it a beloved sport for fans.
In the realm of racing anime, Overtake is just one of many that have captivated audiences over the years. Some prioritize the races themselves, while others center around the development of characters. Regardless, these anime are all highly enjoyable and deserving of greater recognition.
It's also worth pointing out that the anime on this list are in no particular order.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for all the series on this list.
Redline, Capeta, and 6 other anime series for fans of Overtake
1. Initial D
The image above showcases racing anime royalty (Image via SynergySP).
Overtake has been gaining significant attention in recent weeks as a standout racing anime, but Initial D is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the genre. The manga first appeared in the mid-90s and continued for an impressive 48 volumes, chronicling the adventures of Takumi Fujiwara.
2. Redline
The story initially centers on Takumi's involvement in illegal car racing, delving into the intricacies of various cars, their mechanics, and the unique motivations driving each driver. As the series unfolds, Takumi undergoes remarkable growth, making his journey a compelling spectacle to witness.
Redline, a film beloved by Overtake and anime fans alike (Image via Madhouse).
The story of Redline is a poignant one, considering the tremendous effort, financial investment, and time that Madhouse Studio poured into the project. Released in the late 2000s, the film is renowned for its exceptional animation, making it a pivotal piece in the history of the medium. Despite its initial commercial failure, Redline has since garnered a dedicated cult following.
The premise is straightforward: in a futuristic society, people compete in races with no holds barred, risking their lives for victory. JP, one of only two human racers, is determined to dominate the industry despite the numerous challenges and adventures that come with it. Imagine the high-stakes racing of Overtake, but taken to the extreme.
3. Appare-Ranman
Very different to Overtake but still pretty good (Image via P.A. Works).
Overtake is a beloved series known for its portrayal of racing in the FA Championship, but Appare-Ranman takes it to the next level by delving into cultural differences.
Set in the Meiji Era of Japan, the story follows the main character who finds himself on American soil due to the events in the series. Protagonist Appare Sorano is tasked with participating in the "Trans-America Wild Race", where he must build a car and compete in order to earn the money needed to return home.
4. Future GPX Cyber Formula
Futuristic Overtake, if people want to look at it that way (Image via Sunrise).
Overtake is a thrilling series that delves into the competitive world of professional racing, with an added futuristic twist. The protagonist, Hayato Kazami, finds himself inadvertently entering a competition that resembles a futuristic rendition of Formula 1.
Originally released in the early 90s, this anime is a classic in its own right, being one of the pioneering series to explore the world of racing. It offers an exhilarating and inspirational storyline, filled with memorable moments and a powerful message of triumphing despite the odds.
5. Capeta
A fun take on racing (Image via Studio Comet).
Capeta follows the journey of the main character, Kappeita Taira, as he grows and develops a deep love for go-kart racing. From his early days of passion to his progression into the professional world, Capeta's journey is endearing to many fans. Similar to Overtake, the series is set in the real world and offers a straightforward progression of character development. While it doesn't break new ground, Capeta is a fun and enjoyable watch from start to finish.
6. MF Ghost
A sequel to a classic (Image via Felix Film).
This series could be seen as Overtake's market rival as they both debuted this year and are currently airing. However, MF Ghost, being the direct sequel to Initial D, sets it apart from other racing anime currently airing, giving it an extra layer of intrigue.
Set in the near future, the story revolves around protagonist Kanata Katagiri and his ambition to become a racing champion. The unique selling point is Kanata's training and guidance from Takumi Fujiwara, the protagonist of the Initial D series, despite Takumi not appearing in the entire sequel.
7. Nasu: A Migratory Bird With Suitcase
A little underrated gem (Image via Madhouse).
Nasu is a hidden gem in the Madhouse catalog, deserving of more credit and recognition. Unlike Overtake, it is not centered around cars, but it is a racing anime with a strong sentimental focus. The film follows Team Pao Pao Beer, a group of cyclists striving to win the Japan Cup in what may be their final race together. The opportunity to compete one last time prompts reflection on their past and creates a poignant and emotional experience.
8. Wangan Midnight
Another classic of the genre (Image via A.C.G.T.).
Wangan Midnight is a beloved racing manga series that began in the 90s and ran for nearly two decades. The anime adaptation by A.C.G.T. in the mid-2000s consisted of 26 episodes but still garnered a dedicated fanbase.
The story revolves around underground car racing, drawing inspiration from the real-life events on Tokyo's Shuto Expressway. The main character, Akio, struggles to find a car suitable for these races, ultimately leading to a series of accidents due to the vehicle's extensive modifications. This marks the beginning of Akio's journey.
Final thoughts
Overtake has been making waves recently, and the great thing for fans is that there is much more to consume in the racing genre.
Editor's P/S
As an anime fan, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting series to watch. I was thrilled to discover the 8 must-see anime series for Overtake enthusiasts. Each of these series offers something unique and exciting, from the high-speed action of Initial D and Redline to the captivating racing narratives of Capeta and MF Ghost.
Overall, I highly recommend these anime series to any fan of Overtake. They offer a thrilling and adrenaline-fueled experience that is sure to leave you wanting more. Whether you're a fan of racing, action, or drama, there's something for everyone in this list. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!