The Initial D anime and manga, created by the talented Japanese writer and illustrator Shuichi Shigeno, revolves around the thrilling world of street racing. Renowned studios like OB Studio Comet, Studio Gallop, Pastel, A.C.G.T, and SynergySP have brought this captivating series to life through their animated adaptations.
Originally, Tokyopop held the license for distributing the anime series in North America from 2002 to 2009, catering to English-speaking audiences. However, Funimation (Crunchyroll) has now taken over the license for the anime series, while Kodansha USA obtained the rights to publish the manga in 2019.
The Initial D anime focuses on Takumi Fujiwara's journey to becoming a drift racing legend
Where to watch the Initial D anime
If you're interested in streaming the Initial D anime, there are numerous platforms available to discover this beloved series. Hulu is a highly favored option among fans, offering a captivating experience of Takumi's exhilarating street racing adventures.
Funimation, another popular streaming platform, offers individuals the opportunity to enjoy the title "Initial D." This platform provides access to both subtitled and dubbed versions of the series, allowing fans to choose their preferred language for watching the anime.
Additionally, Crunchyroll, a leading streaming platform for anime content, is worth considering. By subscribing to this platform, viewers can immerse themselves in Takumi's thrilling racing journey and experience the exhilarating races firsthand.
Plot overview of the Initial D anime
The focal point of Initial D revolves around Takumi Fujiwara, a high school student employed as a delivery driver at his father's tofu shop. Unbeknownst to his friends and peers, Takumi has honed his driving skills over the years by delivering tofu on treacherous mountain routes.
As Takumi traverses the winding paths of Mount Akina, he inadvertently uncovers his innate talent for drift racing, gaining the admiration and reverence of the street racing community. The series delves into Takumi's journey as a racer, his encounters with rival drivers, and the obstacles he confronts while striving to strike a balance between his racing ambitions and his obligations at home and school.
The team behind the Initial D anime
As each race unfolds, Takumi consistently pushes his boundaries, refining his abilities and solidifying his position as a dominant force in the world of racing. Alongside the exhilarating competitions, the narrative delves into the personal connections and development of Takumi and his acquaintances.
Shuichi Shigeno, a Japanese artist with a profound passion for cars and street racing culture, successfully brought forth the creation of Initial D. Spanning from 1995 to 2013, this manga served as the bedrock for its anime counterpart. Debuting in 1998, the animated series enthralled viewers with its gripping 26 episodes.
Final thoughts
The anime's uniqueness stems from its exceptional voice actors, who skillfully breathe life into the characters. Shin'ichirô Miki lends his voice to the protagonist, Takumi Fujiwara, while Tomokazu Seki portrays Keisuke 'K.T.' Takahashi.
For anyone seeking a thrilling anime with fast-paced racing and captivating characters, Initial D is the ultimate choice. This series has garnered a devoted fan base due to its gripping storyline, heart-pounding race sequences, and meticulously crafted characters. The exciting part is that several streaming platforms offer the perfect opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the world of Initial D.
Fans can fully immerse themselves in the exciting realm of street racing as they follow Takumi Fujiwara's captivating journey towards becoming a renowned drift racing icon. With popular platforms such as Hulu, Funimation, and Crunchyroll, enthusiasts can enjoy unrestricted access to the entire series.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see the resurgence of interest in the Initial D anime series. The show, which follows the story of Takumi Fujiwara, a high school student who becomes a legendary drift racer, is a classic for a reason. The animation is top-notch, the characters are well-developed, and the races are exhilarating.
I think what makes Initial D so special is its ability to capture the essence of street racing. The show doesn't shy away from the dangers of the sport, but it also celebrates the camaraderie and sense of community that exists among racers. The characters are all relatable and likable, and it's easy to root for Takumi as he overcomes the challenges he faces.
Overall, I think Initial D is a must-watch for any fan of anime or racing. It's a thrilling, action-packed show that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.