High School DxD – Season 4 (2018)

Strategy, Structure, and the True Test of Power

Season 4 of High School DxD, officially titled High School DxD Hero, represents a turning point not only in the story but in the franchise itself. With a new animation studio and a renewed focus on narrative structure, this season corrects course while pushing the series toward its most refined form of supernatural storytelling.

Where earlier seasons emphasized raw power and chaotic escalation, Season 4 introduces discipline, rules, and strategy. Battles are no longer decided solely by overwhelming strength but by preparation, teamwork, and leadership. For Issei Hyoudou, this is the season where potential finally becomes control.

Season 4 also realigns the anime more closely with the original light novels, addressing narrative deviations from Season 3 and laying a solid foundation for future arcs that extend beyond the anime.

Season Overview

Title: High School DxD Hero – Season 4
Japanese Title: ハイスクールD×D HERO
Episodes: 13
Air Date: April 10, 2018 – July 3, 2018
Studio: Passione
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Blu-ray, DVD
Opening Theme: “Switch” by Minami
Ending Theme: “Motenai Kuse ni” by Tapimiru

Story Summary

Following the turbulent events of Season 3, Issei Hyoudou returns with a renewed focus on discipline and growth. Under the guidance of veteran devils and allies, his training shifts from survival to mastery. His dragon power, once volatile and dangerous, begins to take a more controlled form.

Season 4 introduces the Rating Game system as a formalized method of conflict resolution within devil society. These structured battles test not only individual strength but strategy, coordination, and leadership. For Rias Gremory and her peerage, the Rating Games represent an opportunity to rise in status—and a test of their unity.

At the same time, powerful new adversaries emerge, including elite devil families and mysterious organizations with agendas that extend far beyond school rivalries. Mythological figures and ancient entities step closer into the spotlight, hinting at conflicts that reach well beyond the anime’s current scope.

This season also places renewed emphasis on character relationships, loyalty, and personal growth, balancing spectacle with emotional payoff.

Major Arcs Covered

• Rating Game Introduction Arc — Formal battles redefine combat rules and emphasize tactics over brute force, a major evolution for the series.

• Power Mastery Arc — Issei learns restraint and precision, transforming dragon power into a controlled weapon.

• Devil Politics Expansion Arc — Noble hierarchies and alliances become increasingly important, shaping future conflicts.

• Realignment Arc — Narrative elements are adjusted to better align with the light novels, clarifying lore and character motivations.

Character Development Highlights

• Issei Hyoudou — Season 4 marks Issei’s most significant growth. He transitions from reckless powerhouse to reliable leader, earning recognition as more than just a Pawn.

• Rias Gremory — Rias steps fully into her role as a commander, proving her worth as both strategist and noble leader.

• Vali Lucifer — Vali continues to serve as both rival and mirror, reinforcing the level Issei must reach to survive future wars.

• Akeno Himejima — Akeno’s strength and loyalty shine in structured combat, emphasizing teamwork over individual dominance.

• Asia Argento — Asia’s support role becomes increasingly vital, highlighting the importance of non-combat abilities.

World-Building & Lore Refinement

Season 4 clarifies and expands several key concepts:

• Rating Game rules and rankings

• Noble devil political systems

• Dragon Gear evolution mechanics

• Mythological faction balance

• Foundations for post-anime story arcs

These refinements bring cohesion to the franchise and elevate it beyond episodic conflict.

Themes & Tone

• Control Over Chaos — Power must be mastered, not unleashed blindly.

• Strategy Wins Wars — Preparation and teamwork matter more than raw strength.

• Leadership Through Responsibility — True authority is earned, not inherited.

• Growth Through Correction — Mistakes are acknowledged and improved upon.

Animation & Music

Animated by Studio Passione, Season 4 introduces a noticeable art style shift closer to the light novel illustrations. Character designs are cleaner and more expressive, and action scenes emphasize clarity and consistency.

The opening theme “Switch” symbolizes transformation and progression, while “Motenai Kuse ni” maintains the franchise’s playful energy.

Where to Watch

You can watch High School DxD – Season 4 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Amazon Prime Video

• Netflix

• Blu-ray

• DVD

Availability may vary by region.

Popularity & Reception

Season 4 was widely welcomed as a course correction for the anime. Fans praised its improved narrative clarity, structured battles, and faithful adaptation of the light novels. The studio change initially sparked debate, but many viewers ultimately appreciated the consistency and storytelling focus.

The season is often regarded as the most refined installment of the anime adaptation.

Final Thoughts

Season 4 of High School DxD is about earning power, not chasing it.

It brings structure to chaos, strategy to strength, and clarity to a world previously defined by escalation. For long-time fans, it serves as both a reward and a promise—proof that the story still has room to grow.

This season doesn’t just continue the journey.
It stabilizes it.