A lot of people like harem actions , that is why they are so popular , just saying . Date Alive is competent for what it is , but it essentially still ticks off an list you would expect from that genre . Many harem actions just alter the premise . So if you like the premise and also enjoy a very by the numbers harem action , then go for it . As for DxD , the only reason one would get invested into the plot is not due to the excellence or brilliance of its writing , but it has been going on for so quite some time . The a lot better is also because you have gotten to know the story , the background , the setting , and its characters for over 20 books , and several anime seasons . Every major issue I personally have with its writing still exist , while superficial ones can inherently be mended with time and more content . The reason it is an avoid unless you enjoy the genre , is exactly because it is one of those that are not actually good , but you can tolerate as long as you invest time into it . But then again , why invest time to only tolerate a mediocre which I feel is a huge praise for DxD story , when there are plenty brilliant anime that are brilliant from the get go ?