How to watch
Initial D Watch Order in the correct order
How to watch the Initial D series in order
Last updated: October 4 2026
Written by: ChronoAlice
Initial D is the definitive street-racing anime, following tofu-delivery driver Takumi Fujiwara as he conquers the mountain passes. Its many 'Stages' and films span decades, so here's the full watch order.
Based on Shuichi Shigeno's manga, Initial D turned downhill touge racing into a cultural phenomenon, complete with Eurobeat soundtracks and the legendary AE86. The anime was released across numbered 'Stages' over many years, plus OVAs and a reboot film trilogy, which makes the viewing order a common question.
π Release Order
The original continuity is best followed by its Stages, which release in sequence and tell one continuous story.
- Initial D: First Stage (1998)
- Initial D: Second Stage (1999)
- Initial D: Extra Stage (2000 OVA)
- Initial D: Third Stage (2001 film)
- Initial D: Fourth Stage (2004)
- Initial D: Extra Stage 2 (2008 OVA)
- Initial D: Fifth Stage (2012)
- Initial D: Final Stage (2014)
There's also a separate reboot β the New Initial D the Movie trilogy β which retells the early story in a self-contained continuity.
π Story Chronology
The original anime's chronology matches its Stage numbering, telling Takumi's career from the first downhill battle to the final championship.
- First Stage through Final Stage (1998β2014) β Takumi's complete original arc
- New Initial D the Movie: Legend 1β3 (2014β2016) β a standalone reboot retelling
Which Order Should You Choose?
To experience the whole saga, follow the Stages in numerical order from First Stage to Final Stage β they form one unbroken story. The reboot film trilogy is a great alternative if you want a modernized, condensed introduction, but don't mix the two continuities. For the full nostalgic Eurobeat-fueled ride, the classic Stages are the way to go.
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