Reading is my all-time favorite hobby. While I enjoy playing video games and watching TV, nothing quite matches the thrill of diving deep into a captivating book series. My love for reading was sparked by the Harry Potter books and has since grown to encompass genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, leading me to an intense and exclusive focus on this style of storytelling. If you're curious about exploring the enchanting world of LitRPG, 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 AudibleAll the books listed here are available through a Kindle Unlimited subscription, which is a cost-effective way to access these series, especially considering their length. Additionally, if you prefer listening to your stories, each book is also available via an Audible subscription.
What Is LitRPG?
For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This genre incorporates elements typically found in video games into the narrative, such as leveling systems and power hierarchies. While some stories might literally involve characters being transported into a video game world, the genre is broader, encompassing various forms of game-like progression. The books I've selected blend both progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering readers a dynamic and 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, with each new installment matching the excellence of the first. The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens inside a magical world's hedge maze, endowed with new powers and sans hair. His quirky approach to navigating this new reality, coupled with encounters with cannibals, monsters, and complex relationships, makes for a riveting read. The series, penned by Shirtaloon, is currently on its 11th book, with more on the horizon.
The Path of Ascension
### The Path of Ascension
33Book 1 of 8See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"The Path of Ascension" deviates from traditional LitRPG by not transporting its protagonist to another world. Instead, it introduces a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals known as rifts and powerful immortals with unique talents. The narrative follows Matt, an orphan driven by the dream of diving into rifts to avenge his parents' deaths. When his initial talent assessment yields disappointing results, he must rely on hard work and determination to rise above his limitations. The character development across the first three books particularly captivated me, cementing this series as a favorite.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
### Dungeon Crawler Carl
74Book 1 of 7See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"Dungeon Crawler Carl" is an exhilarating adventure that maintains a relentless pace. It features an unconventional protagonist and introduces Princess Donut, a cat who might just steal the show. The story unfolds as Carl, unexpectedly stuck with his ex-girlfriend's cat during the apocalypse, finds himself and his feline companion thrust into an underground dungeon that serves as an intergalactic game show. Authored by Matt Dinniman, the series, now on its seventh book released in 2024, continues to captivate with its humor, action, and skill progression.
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe Cradle series, like "The Path of Ascension," keeps its protagonist in their existing world, immersing readers in a deeply developed environment. With a unique power cultivation system and a highly likable main character, "Unsouled" appeals to fantasy enthusiasts who might not be fully committed to traditional LitRPG. The narrative follows Lindon, born without the ability to practice the sacred arts, who must navigate his limitations and find a path to power. The series concludes satisfyingly with its 12th book, and author Will Wight's other works are well worth exploring.
Beware of Chicken
### Beware of Chicken
30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"Beware of Chicken" stands out with its unconventional approach, focusing on a protagonist who abandons the path of power to embrace the life of a farmer. The story follows Jin Rou, who, after his death, sees his consciousness replaced by a person from Earth. This new Jin Rou opts for a peaceful existence, finding unexpected power and fulfillment in his new life. This series offers a refreshing and relaxing read within the LitRPG genre.
Defiance of the Fall
### Defiance of the Fall
36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"Defiance of the Fall" is a lengthy yet rewarding series that kicks off with an explosive start and maintains its momentum through numerous challenges faced by its protagonist. The narrative follows Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone and thrust into a multiverse with a new "System" guiding his survival. As he battles to reunite with his family, he unravels the mysteries of his new reality. With 14 books already released and a 15th on the way, the series offers a complex and intriguing leveling system.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe "Arcane Ascension" series eschews traditional stat sheets for a world ruled by powerful beings who grant "attunements" through trials in dungeon-like spires. The story follows Corin Cadence, who, driven by the loss of his brother, seeks his own attunement while uncovering deeper mysteries. The magic school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter, combined with a rich fantasy world, makes this an excellent entry point into the LitRPG genre. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enriches the narrative.
The Grand Game
### The Grand Game
15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"The Grand Game" offers a unique take on LitRPG, focusing on stealth and strategy. The protagonist, Michael, finds himself in the Forever Kingdom, a realm where he must navigate a dungeon filled with monsters and uncover his place in the world run by the elite Powers. With seven books currently available and two more on preorder, this series provides a fresh perspective on the genre.
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible"The Completionist Chronicles" serve as an excellent entry into LitRPG, blending familiar RPG elements with unique twists. The story follows Joe, an ex-military medic who, after a severe injury, enters a fully immersive virtual MMORPG. As a Ritualist, he navigates quests and levels up his skills, embarking on an evolving journey across different worlds.
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThe "Underworld Series" unfolds as a slow burn, with Elorian, an avid gamer, finding himself trapped in the literal underworld. Alongside fellow gamers, he's granted magical powers and infinite leveling potential but faces the challenge of an ancient succubus draining their power. With a rich cast of characters, including vampires, dragons, and giant lava cats, this series is an exciting introduction to the LitRPG genre.
