Reading is my all-time favorite hobby. While I enjoy playing video games and watching TV, nothing quite compares to the immersive experience of diving into a captivating book series. My love for reading was sparked by the Harry Potter books, which led me to explore various genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and even non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, becoming an all-consuming passion. If you're curious about exploring the fascinating world of LitRPG, here are my top recommendations that I believe anyone would enjoy.
Our Top Pick### He Who Fights With Monsters
95See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### The Path of Ascension
33See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Dungeon Crawler Carl
74See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Beware of Chicken
30See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Defiance of the Fall
36See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### The Grand Game
15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
One of the best aspects of these recommended books is that they are all accessible through a Kindle Unlimited subscription. Given the extensive number of books in some of these series, subscribing can be a cost-effective way to enjoy them. Additionally, if you prefer audiobooks, each title is also available through an Audible subscription.
What Is LitRPG?
For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This genre integrates elements similar to those found in video games into its storytelling. While some narratives involve characters being transported into a game-like world, the genre is broader and more diverse. All LitRPG books feature game-like mechanics, but not all mimic video games exactly. You'll find a leveling system and a power hierarchy that the protagonist must navigate through experience in each of the books listed below. My recommendations include a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, both of which provide a similar engaging experience.
He Who Fights with Monsters
Our Top Pick### He Who Fights With Monsters
95Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
He Who Fights with Monsters is a thrilling, action-packed series with some of the most memorable lines I've encountered. Set in a universe with a unique leveling system and compelling characters, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. This is my top LitRPG series, and each new installment maintains the high quality of the first.
The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world inside a hedge maze, equipped with new powers and no hair. His quirky and determined approach to his bizarre situation helps him navigate challenges ranging from cannibals and monsters to complex personal relationships. With a morally complex protagonist, this series is a delightful journey from start to finish.
Currently, He Who Fights with Monsters is on its 11th book, with more to come from the author, Shirtaloon.
The Path of Ascension
### The Path of Ascension
33Book 1 of 8See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Path of Ascension offers a less traditional LitRPG experience, as the protagonist isn't pulled into another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals with unique talents.
The narrative follows Matt, a young orphan driven by the dream of diving into rifts to battle the monsters that killed his parents. However, his aspirations are dashed when he receives a detrimental Tier 1 talent. Matt's journey to overcome his limitations through hard work and determination is both inspiring and engaging.
While the first book hooked me, it was the character development in books two and three that cemented this series as one of my favorites.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
### Dungeon Crawler Carl
74Book 1 of 7See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Dungeon Crawler Carl is a fast-paced adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It features a unique protagonist who defies typical tropes, and the delightful cat, Princess Donut, who might just steal the show. This series is a standout in the LitRPG genre.
The story revolves around Carl, who finds himself trapped with his ex-girlfriend's cat when the world ends. They are forced into an underground dungeon that serves as an intergalactic game show, run by advanced races and a quirky AI. Filled with humor, action, and skill progression, this series is a must-read for LitRPG enthusiasts.
The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the same level of excitement as the first. Author Matt Dinniman's other works are also worth exploring if you enjoy his writing style.
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Similar to The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve the protagonist being transported to another universe. Instead, it immerses you in a deeply crafted world with a unique power cultivation system and a highly relatable main character. Unsouled is an excellent choice for fantasy lovers who may not be fully committed to LitRPG.
The story follows Lindon, born as an "Unsouled" with no apparent path to the sacred arts of his village. Despite his intelligence and determination, he seems destined to remain powerless. However, a divine intervention offers him a chance to change his fate.
With 12 books in the series, the Cradle saga concludes satisfyingly. I highly recommend exploring more of Will Wight's work, as his storytelling is consistently excellent.
Beware of Chicken
### Beware of Chicken
30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Beware of Chicken stands out as the most unique series on this list. While other books focus on action and adventure, this one takes a different approach, telling the story of a man who abandons the path to power to become a farmer.
The narrative follows Jin Rou, a dedicated cultivator striving for martial arts mastery. After his death, a person from Earth takes over his consciousness and decides to leave the world of cultivators behind for a peaceful farming life. In his pursuit of tranquility, Jin Rou discovers friendship, family, and an unexpected source of power.
Beware of Chicken offers a refreshing and unexpected read that still satisfies the LitRPG fantasy craving.
Defiance of the Fall
### Defiance of the Fall
36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
As the longest series on my list, Defiance of the Fall is a commitment that pays off handsomely. The first book kicks off with an explosive start, and the series maintains its momentum as the protagonist faces one challenge after another.
The story begins with Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. Confronted by a new "System" with notifications and quests, Zac must survive an invading force using only a hatchet and sheer luck. As he journeys to reunite with his family, he uncovers the secrets of the multiverse.
With 14 books already released and a 15th on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers a rich narrative with a unique and intriguing leveling system and skill progression. The story truly expands once Zac ventures beyond Earth.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Arcane Ascension series forgoes traditional stat sheets and complex leveling systems, instead immersing you in a world governed by god-like beings who offer "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system is both fascinating and well-developed, explored through the protagonist's enthusiastic journey.
The story is told in the first person by Corin Cadence, who, after losing his brother to the Serpent Spire, must face the trials within to earn his own attunement. His adventures in the spires raise more questions, which he seeks to answer with the help of new friends at Lorian Heights Academy.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway into LitRPG. Its magic school setting evokes the feel of Harry Potter, making it an accessible entry point into the genre. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enrich the main narrative and are well worth exploring.
The Grand Game
### The Grand Game
15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
If you're a fan of stealth games, The Grand Game is a perfect series to delve into. Unlike other books on this list, its protagonist is an assassin who prefers to navigate challenges covertly.
The story follows Michael, who awakens in the Forever Kingdom with no memory except his name. Among other newcomers, he must learn to fight and advance through a dungeon filled with monsters. As he levels up and discovers new skills, he uncovers more about this world controlled by a group called Powers and his role in the Grand Game.
The Grand Game offers a fresh take on the genre that I thoroughly enjoyed. Although there are currently seven books in the series, both the eighth and ninth are available for preorder.
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
For those seeking an entry-level LitRPG experience, the Completionist Chronicles are an excellent starting point. They incorporate familiar RPG elements with unique twists that make them hard to put down.
The series follows Joe, an ex-military medic confined to a wheelchair after a severe injury. When an old friend offers him a chance to immerse himself in a new virtual MMORPG, he seizes the opportunity and discovers a new life within the game. As a Ritualist, Joe leverages his unique skills and situation to level up through quests.
The series evolves rapidly in later books, taking readers to entirely new worlds, but remains a fun and engaging read throughout.
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Underworld series is a slow burn, set in the literal underworld rather than a fantastical realm. Unlike other series where characters enter a magical world, Level Up or Die takes place beneath the Earth's surface.
The story follows Elorian, an average high school student and avid gamer, who finds himself trapped in the underworld with other gamers. Despite being granted magical powers and the ability to level up indefinitely, none of them are thrilled about their situation. An ancient succubus is draining their power as they navigate dungeons filled with vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats. This series is packed with adventure and is an excellent introduction to LitRPG.
