Reading has always been my ultimate passion. While I enjoy video games and TV, nothing quite matches the immersive experience of diving into an exceptional book series. My journey with books started with the enchanting world of Harry Potter and has since expanded across genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it was the discovery of the LitRPG genre that truly captivated me, leading to an all-consuming obsession. If you're curious about exploring this fascinating genre, here are my top recommendations that I believe everyone should experience.
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
A fantastic aspect of these books is their availability on Kindle Unlimited, which is a cost-effective way to enjoy the extensive series. They are also accessible via an Audible subscription for those who prefer audiobooks.
What Is LitRPG?
For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This genre integrates RPG elements reminiscent of video games into its narratives. While some stories involve characters entering a video game world, the genre is broader and includes various game-like elements. The books I've listed feature leveling systems and power hierarchies that characters must navigate through experience. I've included a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, both of which offer similar engaging experiences.
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 whirlwind of fast-paced action and humor, featuring a unique universe with an innovative leveling system and memorable characters. This series is a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. It's my top pick in the LitRPG genre, with each new installment maintaining the high quality of the first.
The story follows Jason Asano, who finds himself in a magical world with new powers and no hair. His offbeat yet determined approach to his bizarre new life helps him navigate challenges from cannibals and monsters to personal relationships. With its morally complex protagonist, this series captivates from start to finish.
Currently, "He Who Fights with Monsters" is on its eleventh book, with more anticipated releases 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" diverges from traditional LitRPG by not pulling the main character into another world. Instead, it offers a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals known as rifts and powerful immortals with unique talents.
The narrative follows Matt, an orphan aspiring to dive into rifts and fight the monsters that killed his parents. His dreams are dashed when he's assigned a detrimental Tier 1 talent, yet he perseveres through hard work and determination. The character development in books two and three truly 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 an exhilarating adventure that never lets up. With a refreshing main character and the delightful Princess Donut, this series stands out as one of the best in LitRPG.
The story centers on Carl, who finds himself trapped with his ex-girlfriend's cat during the apocalypse. Together, they must navigate an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show, run by advanced races and a quirky AI. The series maintains its charm and excitement through to the seventh book, released in 2024. Fans of author Matt Dinniman should explore his other works as well.
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The "Cradle" series, like "The Path of Ascension," immerses readers in an existing world with depth and a unique power cultivation system. It's perfect for fantasy lovers who may not be fully committed to LitRPG.
The protagonist, Lindon, is born as an "Unsouled," seemingly destined for a life without power. His determination and intelligence propel him forward when fate intervenes. The series concludes satisfyingly after twelve books, and I highly recommend exploring other works by Will Wight.
Beware of Chicken
### Beware of Chicken
30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
"Beware of Chicken" offers a unique twist on the genre, focusing on a protagonist who abandons the path to power for a peaceful farming life.
Jin Rou, a cultivator aiming for martial arts mastery, dies, and a person from Earth takes over his consciousness. Choosing a serene life over power, Jin Rou finds unexpected strength and community in his new, quiet existence. This series is perfect for readers seeking a relaxing yet fulfilling LitRPG experience.
Defiance of the Fall
### Defiance of the Fall
36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
"Defiance of the Fall" is a long but rewarding series, starting with a gripping first book and maintaining its momentum through numerous challenges.
Zachary Atwood's world integrates into the multiverse, forcing him to survive an invasion with only a hatchet and luck. As he journeys to reunite with his family, he uncovers the secrets of his new reality. With 14 books released and a fifteenth on the way, the series offers a complex leveling system and an ever-expanding narrative.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The "Arcane Ascension" series introduces a world governed by god-like beings offering "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system is both fascinating and engaging.
Corin Cadence, mourning his brother's loss to the Serpent Spire, embarks on his own trial. His journey through the spires uncovers more questions, leading to new friendships at Lorian Heights Academy. This series, reminiscent of Harry Potter, serves as an excellent entry point to LitRPG, and Andrew Rowe's companion series further enrich the narrative.
The Grand Game
### The Grand Game
15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
"The Grand Game" offers a unique LitRPG experience centered around stealth and strategy. The protagonist, Michael, awakens in the Forever Kingdom with no memory, learning to navigate a dungeon-filled world run by the elite Powers.
This series provides a fresh take on the genre, with seven books currently available and two more up for pre-order.
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
"The Completionist Chronicles" are perfect for those new to LitRPG, blending familiar MMO elements with unique twists.
Joe, an ex-military medic now wheelchair-bound, enters a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist. His journey through the game world and beyond offers a compelling and evolving narrative.
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
"Level Up or Die" unfolds as a slow-burning adventure set in the literal underworld. Elorian, a high-school gamer, finds himself trapped with fellow gamers, facing an ancient succubus who drains their power as they level up in subterranean dungeons.
Filled with vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, this series is an exciting introduction to LitRPG.
