Reading is my absolute favorite pastime. While I enjoy video games and TV, nothing compares to immersing myself in a captivating book series. My reading journey began with Harry Potter, branching out to sci-fi, fantasy, mysteries, and even non-fiction. However, my true literary passion ignited upon discovering the LitRPG genre—a whirlwind obsession that now defines my reading life. If you're curious about this exciting world, here are some of my top LitRPG 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 aspect 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 option.
What is LitRPG?
For newcomers, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. The stories incorporate RPG elements reminiscent of video games. While some involve characters literally entering video games, the genre is much broader. All LitRPG features game-like elements, but not all mirror video games exactly. The books below share leveling systems and power hierarchies the protagonists 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 AudibleFast-paced, action-packed, and brimming with witty dialogue, He Who Fights with Monsters boasts a unique leveling system and memorable characters. A must-read fantasy comedy; each installment maintains the high quality of the first. Jason Asano's journey—waking hairless in a magical hedge maze—is a hilarious and compelling adventure filled with cannibals, monsters, and surprisingly relatable relationships.
The series, 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 AudibleUnlike some entries, The Path of Ascension doesn't involve a world-transfer. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals ("rifts") and powerful immortals. Matt, an orphan driven to avenge his parents' deaths, must overcome a detrimental talent through sheer grit and determination. While the first book hooked 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 AudibleA relentlessly fast-paced adventure featuring an unconventional protagonist and a delightful cat named Princess Donut (arguably the true star). Carl's journey through an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show, run by advanced races and a chaotic AI, is a hilarious romp filled with action and skill progression. The seventh book, released in 2024, maintained the series' high standard.
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 a dimensional shift. Instead, it immerses you in a deep, existing world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. Lindon, born "Unsouled," defies expectations and carves his own path. The twelve-book series concludes satisfyingly; 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 AudibleA unique departure from action-heavy LitRPG. Jin Rou, a cultivator, rejects the path of power to become a farmer. This unexpected tale of peace, friendship, and surprising power offers a relaxing yet satisfying LitRPG experience.
6. Defiance of the Fall
Defiance of the Fall
Book 1 of 15
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleA lengthy but rewarding commitment. Zachary Atwood's journey begins with the multiverse's integration into his world, forcing him to survive with a hatchet and sheer luck. The complex leveling system and skill progression, along with the unfolding story, make this a captivating read.
7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
Book 1 of 5
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleThis series forgoes detailed stat sheets and focuses on a unique magic system. Corin Cadence's journey through the spires to earn an attunement is an engaging introduction to the genre, with a magic school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter.
8. The Grand Game
The Grand Game
Book 1 of 9
See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleA stealth-focused LitRPG. Michael, amnesiac in the Forever Kingdom, must navigate a dungeon and uncover the secrets of the "Grand Game," run by elite Powers. A unique take on the genre, with books eight and nine 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 AudibleExcellent entry-level LitRPG. Joe, a wheelchair-bound ex-medic, finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG, embracing the unique Ritualist class. The series evolves rapidly, taking you to different worlds.
10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
A slow-burn LitRPG set in the literal underworld. Elorian and fellow gamers find themselves trapped, forced to level up while facing vampires, dragons, and other underworld creatures.
