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 deep into a captivating book series. My love for reading was ignited by the Harry Potter series, which then 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. My passion for LitRPG grew quickly and now it's the only type of reading I engage in. If you're curious about this genre, here are my top recommendations to get you started on this thrilling literary journey.
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 AudibleOne of the great advantages of these books is their availability through Kindle Unlimited, making it cost-effective to read the extensive series. They are also accessible via an Audible subscription for those who prefer audiobooks.
What Is LitRPG?
For those new to the genre, LitRPG, or literary role-playing game, integrates elements similar to those found in video games into its storytelling. This can range from characters being transported into video game worlds to narratives featuring game-like mechanics such as leveling systems and power hierarchies. The books listed here blend progression fantasy and traditional LitRPG, offering readers an engaging mix of both styles.
He Who Fights with Monsters
Our Top Pick### He Who Fights With Monsters
95Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleHe Who Fights with Monsters is a thrilling, action-packed series with some of the wittiest dialogue I've encountered. Set in a universe with a unique leveling system and compelling characters, it's essential reading for fans of fantasy comedy. This is my top pick in the LitRPG genre, and each new installment continues to captivate me as much as the first.
The story follows Jason Asano, who finds himself in a magical world inside a hedge maze, equipped with new powers and no hair. Jason's resilience and quirky approach help him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even complex relationships. His morally complex character adds depth and charm to this fantastic series, which is currently on its 11th book with more to come from author Shirtaloon.
The Path of Ascension
### The Path of Ascension
33Book 1 of 8See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Path of Ascension offers a unique twist on the LitRPG genre, where the main character, Matt, isn't transported to another world but instead navigates a richly detailed universe filled with magical dungeon portals known as rifts and powerful immortals. As a young orphan driven by the desire to avenge his parents by diving into rifts, Matt faces setbacks when his Tier 1 talent is revealed to be detrimental. His journey is one of overcoming adversity through hard work and determination, and the character development across the series is exceptional.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
### Dungeon Crawler Carl
74Book 1 of 7See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleDungeon Crawler Carl is a non-stop adventure featuring an unconventional protagonist and a standout feline companion named Princess Donut, who might just steal the show. When the world ends, Carl finds himself stuck with his ex-girlfriend's cat and forced into an underground dungeon that doubles as an intergalactic game show. With humor, action, and skill progression, this series by Matt Dinniman remains engaging through its seventh book, released in 2024.
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Cradle series by Will Wight is a masterclass in world-building, focusing on Lindon, who is born "Unsouled" in a world where power is everything. Despite his determination and intelligence, Lindon faces a seemingly insurmountable barrier until a divine intervention offers him a path to power. With a unique system of cultivation and a satisfying conclusion after 12 books, this series is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts.
Beware of Chicken
### Beware of Chicken
30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleBeware of Chicken offers a refreshing take on the genre, focusing on Jin Rou, a cultivator who chooses to abandon his quest for power to become a farmer. After his consciousness is taken over by someone from Earth, Jin Rou seeks a peaceful life, finding unexpected power and fulfillment in his new endeavors. This series is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed yet still engaging LitRPG experience.
Defiance of the Fall
### Defiance of the Fall
36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleDefiance of the Fall is a gripping series that begins with Zachary Atwood's sudden integration into a multiverse. Armed with only a hatchet and his wits, Zac must survive an invading force and uncover the secrets of his new existence. The series, which spans 14 books with a 15th on the way, offers a complex and intriguing leveling system and continuous action.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Arcane Ascension series introduces readers to a world governed by god-like beings who offer magical attunements through trials in dungeon-like spires. Following Corin Cadence, who seeks to earn his attunement after losing his brother, the series dives into a rich magic system and a captivating fantasy setting. Andrew Rowe's work is an excellent entry point into the LitRPG genre, reminiscent of the magic school setting in Harry Potter.
The Grand Game
### The Grand Game
15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Grand Game appeals to fans of stealth games, following Michael, who finds himself in the Forever Kingdom with no memories. As he navigates a dungeon filled with monsters and learns new skills, Michael uncovers the workings of the world controlled by the Powers. This series offers a fresh perspective on the LitRPG genre and is currently on its seventh book, with books eight and nine available for preorder.
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Completionist Chronicles are perfect for those new to LitRPG, featuring Joe, an ex-military medic now wheelchair-bound, who enters a virtual MMORPG world. As a Ritualist, Joe embarks on quests to level up his magic and skills, eventually exploring entirely new worlds in later books. This series offers a compelling mix of familiar RPG elements with unique twists.
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Underworld series takes a darker turn, focusing on Elorian, a high school gamer who finds himself trapped in the literal underworld. Tasked with leveling up to survive against an ancient succubus, Elorian and his fellow gamers face a variety of mythical creatures in this slow-burning yet thrilling series, making it an excellent introduction to the LitRPG genre.
