Reading is my absolute favorite pastime. While I enjoy video games and TV, nothing quite compares to losing myself in a captivating book series. My reading journey began with Harry Potter, branching out into sci-fi, fantasy, mysteries, and even non-fiction. However, my true literary passion ignited upon discovering the LitRPG genre. It quickly became an all-consuming obsession, and now it's the only type of reading I pursue. If you're curious to explore the fantastic world of LitRPG, here are some of my top recommendations.
He Who Fights With Monsters
95 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Path of Ascension
33 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Dungeon Crawler Carl
74 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Beware of Chicken
30 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Defiance of the Fall
36 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Grand Game
15 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23 See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
A fantastic benefit of these books is their availability through Kindle Unlimited. Given the length of some series, a subscription offers significant savings. Audible subscriptions provide an alternative listening experience for those who prefer it.
What is LitRPG?
For newcomers, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. The stories incorporate RPG elements reminiscent of video games. Sometimes, the protagonist is literally transported into a game, but the genre's scope is much broader. While all LitRPG features game-like elements, not every book mirrors a video game exactly. The books below all share a leveling system and power hierarchy that the protagonist must navigate through experience. I've included a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar reading experiences.
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1. He Who Fights with Monsters
He Who Fights With Monsters
Book 1 of 11
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleHe Who Fights with Monsters is fast-paced, action-packed, and boasts some of the best dialogue I've ever encountered. Its unique leveling system and compelling characters make it a must-read for fantasy comedy enthusiasts. This is my personal favorite LitRPG series, and each installment remains as engaging as the first. The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world with newfound powers and a significant hair loss. His resilient and unconventional approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even complex relationships. It's a fantastic read featuring a morally ambiguous protagonist you'll adore.
The series, penned by Shirtaloon, is currently eleven books strong, with more on the horizon.
2. The Path of Ascension
The Path of Ascension
Book 1 of 8
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Path of Ascension deviates slightly from the norm; the protagonist isn't transported to another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals ("rifts") and powerful immortals. Matt, a young orphan, dreams of venturing into rifts to battle the monsters that killed his parents. His aspirations are initially dashed by a weak initial talent, forcing him to overcome adversity through hard work and determination. While the first book captivated me, the character development in books two and three solidified its place among my favorites.
3. Dungeon Crawler Carl
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Book 1 of 7
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleDungeon Crawler Carl is a relentlessly fast-paced adventure. It features an unconventional protagonist and a delightful cat named Princess Donut (arguably the true star). The story follows Carl, unexpectedly stranded with his ex-girlfriend's cat when the world ends. Together, they enter an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show run by advanced races and a chaotic AI. It's a fun adventure brimming with witty lines, action, and satisfying skill progression.
The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the same captivating quality as the first. Author Matt Dinniman has also written other noteworthy books.
4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
Book 1 of 12
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleSimilar to The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve dimensional travel. Instead, it immerses you in a deeply developed world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. Unsouled is ideal for fantasy lovers who aren't strictly LitRPG fans. Lindon, born "Unsouled," seemingly lacks the potential for power, yet his determination and intelligence lead him on an unexpected path.
The twelve-book Cradle series offers a satisfying conclusion. Will Wight's other works are also highly recommended.
5. Beware of Chicken
Beware of Chicken
Book 1 of 4
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleBeware of Chicken stands out for its unique approach. Unlike the action-packed adventures featured above, this story focuses on a man who abandons the pursuit of power to become a farmer. Jin Rou, a hardworking cultivator striving for mastery, dies and is replaced by someone from Earth. The new Jin Rou rejects the world of cultivators, seeking peace and quiet as a farmer. In his pursuit of tranquility, he finds unexpected friendship, family, and power.
Beware of Chicken is a surprisingly delightful and relaxing read that still satisfies the LitRPG craving.
6. Defiance of the Fall
Defiance of the Fall
Book 1 of 15
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleAs the longest series on this list, Defiance of the Fall is a significant commitment, but well worth it. The story begins with Zachary Atwood, alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. He's forced to survive an invasion with minimal resources, uncovering the secrets of this new existence as he fights for his family. The complex leveling system and skill progression are both unique and captivating.
With fourteen books released and a fifteenth on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers a vast and rewarding narrative.
7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
Book 1 of 5
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleArcane Ascension forgoes detailed stat sheets and complex leveling systems. Instead, it presents a world governed by powerful beings who offer unique magic ("attunements") to those who survive their challenging spires. The intricate magic system is fascinating, revealed gradually as the protagonist explores its possibilities. Corin Cadence, after losing his brother, faces the trials within the spires to earn his attunement, uncovering further mysteries along the way.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway into LitRPG. Its magic school setting and rich fantasy world make it an accessible entry point to the genre. Andrew Rowe's companion series are also highly recommended.
8. The Grand Game
The Grand Game
Book 1 of 9
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleFor stealth game enthusiasts, The Grand Game is an excellent choice. Unlike other entries, the protagonist is an assassin who prefers subtlety. Michael, with amnesia, finds himself in the Forever Kingdom, learning to fight and navigate a dangerous dungeon. As he levels up, he uncovers the world's secrets and his role in the "Grand Game."
The Grand Game offers a unique perspective on the genre. While currently seven books long, books eight and nine are available for pre-order.
9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
Book 1 of 11
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Completionist Chronicles is an excellent starting point for LitRPG newcomers. It features familiar MMO elements with unique twists. Joe, a wheelchair-bound ex-military medic, immerses himself in a virtual MMORPG, discovering a secret class ("Ritualist") and leveling up his magic and skills.
The series expands significantly in later books, introducing new worlds and maintaining its engaging quality throughout.
10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Underworld series is a slow burn. Unlike other stories where the protagonist is transported to a magical world, Level Up or Die takes place in the literal underworld. Elorian, a high school gamer, finds himself trapped with other gamers, given magical powers and infinite leveling capabilities. They must navigate the underworld's dangers, facing vampires, dragons, demons, and other creatures, all while being pursued by a power-hungry succubus.
