Off on a tangent, Initial D - Extra Stage focuses on
two unique challengers from Takumi's past who are known as "Impact Blue".
Mako and Sasuki are given center stage and it's an enjoyable slant on the Initial
D world. We follow Mako as she pushes herself to the limits to test her skills
as a mountain racer. Emperor from the second stage is still looking to dominate
the racing scene and makes a challenge to Impact Blue. In the second episode the
viewer is given romance full screen time (OK there is still a "race")
and it's a fresh change in character as we learn more about Mako and why she races.
The opening music to the extra stage is great... animation is "blah"
as per Initial D style.
(3.5)
