Daiundoukai takes its characters and story from the video game by iPC, which acts as a prequel to the AIC OVA series.
In the OVA, Akari Kanazaki (shown at left) has quite a reputation to live up to. It seems her family legacy at the United System Sports Academy has made the Academy's expectations of her own performance...well, let's just say very high.
You see, her own mother was a Cosmo Beauty, and thus one of the most honored alumni of the USSA. To her own dismay, and to the delight of her tormentors, Akari's own clumsiness and care-free attitude is making her the laughing stock of the USSA.
As the ridicule of spoiled-rich classmate Mylandah Walther wears her down, Akari relies on her friendships with Tanya Natdhipytadd (a wild one from Africa), Anna Respighi (Akari's apparently sweet and timid room-mate), and the easy-going dean of the USSA, Grant Oldman.
This series seems to share a lot in common with Gunbuster: Aim for the Top!. Those familiar with that OVA series may see a superficial resemblance between Noriko and Akari, as well as the uniforms they wear.
However, take a look at the video clips (links below) and examine the style and setting differences.
It seems that Daiundoukai will be more tongue-in-cheek than the emotionally-manipulative Gunbuster.
Some may also try to claim similarities with Sailor Moon (it is inevitable these days I guess), but I don't see an obvious connection.
Another series that has themes similar to Daiundoukai is Battle Skipper, so if you enjoyed that series or Gunbuster, you will probably enjoy Daiundoukai.
This series seems to share a lot in common with Gunbuster: Aim for the Top!. Those familiar with that OVA series may see a superficial resemblance between Noriko and Akari, as well as the uniforms they wear. However, take a look at the video clips (links below) and examine the style and setting differences. It seems that Daiundoukai will be more tongue-in-cheek than the emotionally-manipulative Gunbuster. Some may also try to claim similarities with Sailor Moon (it is inevitable these days I guess), but I don't see an obvious connection. Another series that has themes similar to Daiundoukai is Battle Skipper, so if you enjoyed that series or Gunbuster, you will probably enjoy Daiundoukai.