"Record of Ragnarok" is a manga series that centers on a grand tournament orchestrated by the gods to decide the fate of humanity. Every 1,000 years, the gods convene to determine whether mankind should continue to exist or face extinction. In the latest council, the gods unanimously vote to eradicate humanity due to its history of destruction and corruption. However, the valkyrie Brunhilde intervenes, invoking an ancient rule known as "Ragnarok," which allows humanity to challenge the gods in a series of one-on-one battles. If humanity can secure seven victories out of thirteen matches, it will be spared.

The tournament takes place in a divine arena, with each match pitting a human combatant, chosen from history and myth, against a god. The human fighters are granted divine weapons, known as Volunds, crafted by the valkyries, which allow them to contend with the gods' immense power. The gods, representing various pantheons, are determined to prove their superiority, while humanity fights for its survival.

Key characters include Brunhilde, who serves as humanity's advocate and strategist, selecting the most formidable warriors from history to represent mankind. Among the human fighters are figures like Lü Bu, the Chinese warlord known for his unmatched strength; Adam, the biblical first man; and Sasaki Kojiro, a legendary Japanese swordsman. On the divine side, participants include Zeus, the king of the Greek gods; Thor, the Norse god of thunder; and Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.

The narrative unfolds through intense battles, each showcasing the unique abilities, philosophies, and backstories of the combatants. The matches are not merely physical confrontations but also ideological clashes, exploring themes of human resilience, divine arrogance, and the value of existence. As the tournament progresses, the stakes grow higher, with both sides revealing hidden strengths and strategies.

The series balances action with character development, delving into the motivations and histories of both human and divine participants. It also examines the broader implications of the tournament, questioning the morality of the gods' decision to annihilate humanity and highlighting the potential for redemption and growth within both sides. The outcome of each battle influences the overall tension and momentum of the story, keeping the narrative dynamic and unpredictable.