Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on High School DxD
"High School DxD"... where do I even begin? This series is a wild ride, a rollercoaster of over-the-top fanservice, surprisingly deep lore, and characters you can't help but root for, even when they're being complete idiots. It's definitely not for everyone, but if you're looking for something unashamedly fun and a little bit different, you might just find yourself hooked.
First Impressions
Okay, I'll admit it. My initial reaction was, "Whoa, that's a lot of... assets." The series throws you headfirst into its ecchi elements, and it can be a bit overwhelming. But I decided to stick around, and I'm glad I did. There's more to this story than meets the eye, or rather, more than initially assaults your senses.
What Works Well
The world-building is actually quite impressive. The author manages to weave together various mythologies into a cohesive and engaging narrative. It's not just about boobs and battles (though there are plenty of those); there's a genuine plot with political intrigue, warring factions, and characters grappling with their own personal demons.
Speaking of characters, Issei, despite his perverted tendencies, undergoes significant development throughout the series. He starts as a typical wish-fulfillment protagonist but evolves into someone who's aware of his flaws and actively tries to improve himself. And the harem? Each girl has her own distinct personality and backstory, making them more than just cardboard cutouts vying for Issei's affection.
The action is also a major draw. The battles are epic, the power-ups are ridiculous (nipple-powered, anyone?), and the stakes are constantly rising. It's the kind of series where you can't help but cheer when the good guys finally kick some ass.
Areas of Concern
The biggest issue, and the one that seems to divide readers the most, is the fanservice. While some find it hilarious and integral to the series' charm, others find it repetitive, tiresome, and even distracting from the plot. I can see both sides. There are times when the ecchi elements feel forced and unnecessary, interrupting the flow of the story.
Also, the series does drag on a bit. Some readers feel that the plot becomes repetitive after a certain point, and that the author is simply milking the series for all it's worth. I can understand that sentiment, but I personally still find enough enjoyment in the characters and world to keep me invested.
Final Verdict
"High School DxD" is a flawed but ultimately enjoyable series. It's not high art, but it's not trying to be. It's a fun, over-the-top, and surprisingly engaging harem action fantasy that knows exactly what it is and doesn't apologize for it. If you can handle the copious amounts of fanservice, you might just find yourself falling in love with this ridiculous and endearing world.
