Initial D First Stage Season 2

Okay, let's talk Initial D. Specifically, First Stage, Season 2. Prepare for some *controversial* opinions.

Season 2: Still Good, But...

Don't get me wrong, I love Initial D. The animation is iconic. The Eurobeat slaps harder than a rotary engine. But Season 2...

It's where things get a little... hmm. Let's just say *less magical*.

The Opponents: Hit or Miss

Some opponents are great! Ryosuke Takahashi is a genius. His strategy is a work of art.

Then you have... others. Remember the guy with the MR2? Yeah, didn't think so. They are easily forgettable.

It feels like the writers were like, "Okay, Takumi needs to win. But how?" And sometimes the "how" is a bit... forced.

Takumi's Evolution: A Bit Rushed?

Takumi goes from delivery boy to almost-pro racer very quickly. Like, warp-speed quick.

He suddenly understands racing lines and car setup. Did he read a book? Did he get a secret mentor we didn't see?

It’s awesome, but the curve is a little steep.

The Drama: Sometimes Over the Top

The love triangle with Natsuki? It's fine. Teen angst is a classic anime trope.

But sometimes the drama feels a bit... much. Like someone cranked up the melodrama dial to 11.

I am not saying there is no need to add more drama, but the romance feels a little bit forced at times.

Eurobeat Still Saves the Day

Okay, let's be honest. Even if the plot sometimes meanders, the Eurobeat always delivers. It's the ultimate hype music.

Every race is elevated by the sheer power of the soundtrack. The music just gets your blood pumping.

Forget the story, just listen to "Running in the 90s" and pretend you're drifting down Mount Akina. Pure bliss.

Is it Still Worth Watching?

Absolutely! Even with its flaws, *Initial D* First Stage Season 2 is still entertaining. It's classic anime.

It has unforgettable characters. The races are thrilling, most of the time. And it has Eurobeat.

Just go into it knowing that it's not *perfect*. Enjoy it for what it is: a fun, cheesy, and undeniably cool ride.

Unpopular Opinion Time

Okay, here's the real kicker. I think some of the later seasons are actually better. Gasp!

Don't get me wrong, First Stage is iconic. But the animation improves. The characters develop more. And the races get even crazier.

So, yeah. Maybe I'm alone in this. But I stand by my opinion. Bring on Second Stage!

But let's be real, whatever your opinion, Initial D is a cornerstone of automotive anime. And we love it, even with its quirks.

And we all know you still secretly want an AE86.