Highschool DxD Codexery

Rating Game Arena

Where supernatural wars end in regulated matches rather than bloodshed.

The Rating Game Arena is the neutral ground where supernatural factions settle disputes through regulated combat rather than open war. Governed by strict rules established by the Three Factions—Angels, Devils, and Fallen Angels—it transforms potentially devastating conflicts into high-stakes tournaments with predetermined victory conditions. These arenas are not merely physical locations but magical constructs that can manifest anywhere, from desolate wastelands to surreal dreamscapes, ensuring that the battle remains contained and fair.

Purpose
Neutral dispute resolution via regulated combat
Governance
Jointly managed by Angels, Devils, and Fallen Angels
Participants
Supernatural beings (Devils, Angels, Fallen Angels, Dragons, etc.)
Victory Conditions
Varies per match (e.g., capture the flag, elimination)
Status
Active and frequently utilized throughout modern history

Lore & Background

The Rating Game system was born from a desire to prevent total annihilation among the three major factions. By channeling aggression into structured competition, the leaders of Heaven, Hell, and the Fallen created a mechanism where honor and power are tested without risking the stability of the world. The arenas themselves are often generated by powerful magic or divine authority, capable of suppressing outside interference and isolating combatants until a winner is declared. This ensures that even when ancient dragons or high-ranking angels clash, the collateral damage to humanity remains minimal. The rules governing these contests are intricate and vary based on the specific agreement made before the match begins. Common conditions include capturing a designated object, defeating all opponents, or surviving for a set duration within a shrinking barrier. The integrity of the game is paramount; cheating results in severe penalties from the overseeing factions, sometimes leading to the disqualification of entire organizations. Over time, these arenas have become legendary battlegrounds where new powers are discovered and reputations are forged.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the arena tasted of ozone and ancient dust as the barrier shimmered into existence, sealing off the sky from the world beyond. Issei stood his ground, clutching his Sacred Gear, while across the vast, floating island of rock, his opponent descended with wings spread wide. There were no spectators here, only the silent weight of the rules binding them both. With a single nod from the unseen referee, the countdown began, and the arena hummed with potential energy, waiting for the first strike to shatter the silence.

Reader's Guide

Rating Game Arenas are versatile environments that adapt to the specific needs of the match, ranging from urban ruins to mystical forests. Their most defining feature is the impenetrable barrier that isolates the combatants, preventing external interference and ensuring a fair fight. The atmosphere shifts instantly based on the agreed-upon conditions, creating a tense, focused environment where every move counts. The rules are strictly enforced by magical contracts signed before entry. Common victory conditions include 'Capture the Flag,' where teams must retrieve an item from the opponent's base, or 'Elimination,' requiring all opponents to be incapacitated. The arena often shrinks over time in survival matches, forcing direct confrontation. Key events have included the historic battles between Issei Hyoudou and various high-ranking Devils, which established his reputation as a rising power. Control of these arenas is shared among the Three Factions, ensuring no single group can manipulate the outcome for their own gain. While Devils frequently use them to test new recruits or settle internal disputes, Angels and Fallen Angels utilize them to maintain balance in the supernatural world.

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