Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on High School DxD EX
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into High School DxD EX. Going in, I knew this was a bit of a spin-off, a side story within the DxD universe. My initial feeling was cautious optimism. I'm a fan of the main series, so the prospect of more lore and world-building was appealing, but spin-offs can be hit or miss. It felt like a quick read, or at least it should be, based on its nature as a side story.
What Works Well
The strongest aspect of EX seems to be its role as a setup for future events. It introduces the ExE universe and the robot gods, elements that become more prominent later in the main series. I particularly enjoyed seeing the glimpse into the future with Ise's children. The variety of personalities and their connections to their mothers was a fun touch. The focus on Azazel was also a welcome addition. His character is always interesting, and any extra screen time for him is a plus in my book. I can see how this novel is a must-read for dedicated DxD fans who want a complete understanding of the lore.
Areas of Concern
Honestly, the biggest issue I have is the lack of substantial content. I felt a bit let down by the brevity of the story. It feels more like a prologue or an extended teaser than a fully fleshed-out novel. While I appreciate the setup it provides, I wanted more depth and development. If you're not already invested in the DxD universe, this probably won't grab you. It feels like it's made exclusively for fans and doesn't stand well on its own.
Final Verdict
High School DxD EX is a supplementary piece that enhances the overall DxD experience for hardcore fans. It's not a standalone masterpiece, but it lays the groundwork for future storylines and provides interesting insights into the characters and lore. If you're a completionist or simply crave more DxD, then it's worth a read. However, if you're looking for a substantial, self-contained story, you might be left wanting more. I'd recommend approaching it with the right expectations, knowing that it's more of a lore-building exercise than a narrative powerhouse.
