Reading is an unparalleled passion of mine, outshining even my love for video games and television. My journey with books began with the enchanting world of Harry Potter and has since broadened into various genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, leading me to immerse myself entirely in this unique blend of literature and gaming. If you're eager to explore this fascinating genre, here are my top LitRPG recommendations that I believe you'll enjoy.
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
One of the great things about these books is that they're all accessible through a Kindle Unlimited subscription, which is a cost-effective way to dive into these expansive series. Additionally, if you prefer audiobooks, each title is also available with an Audible subscription.
What Is LitRPG?
For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG, or Literary Role-Playing Game, integrates RPG elements akin to video games into its storytelling. This can range from characters being transported into a game world to narratives that include game-like systems within their universe. The books I've highlighted feature leveling systems and power hierarchies, with characters progressing through experience. These recommendations encompass both traditional LitRPG and progression fantasy, offering a rich, engaging experience for readers.
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 wittiest dialogue you'll find. Set in a universe with a unique leveling system and compelling characters, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. This series, my personal favorite, consistently delivers with each new installment. The story follows Jason Asano, who finds himself in a magical world with new powers and no hair, navigating his way through cannibals, monsters, and personal relationships with a blend of determination and humor. With 11 books and counting, Shirtaloon's series is an ongoing delight.
The Path of Ascension
### The Path of Ascension
33Book 1 of 8See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Path of Ascension offers a rich universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals. The protagonist, Matt, is an orphan with dreams of diving into these rifts to avenge his parents' death. Despite being dealt a poor hand with a Tier 1 talent, Matt's journey is one of perseverance and growth. The series truly shines with character development in later books, making it a standout in the genre.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
### Dungeon Crawler Carl
74Book 1 of 7See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Dungeon Crawler Carl is a non-stop adventure featuring Carl, who, along with his ex-girlfriend's cat, Princess Donut, is thrust into an underground dungeon turned intergalactic game show. With a fresh take on character dynamics and a relentless pace, this series is a standout. Matt Dinniman's writing keeps the intrigue alive through all seven books, with more to explore in his other works.
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
### Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Cradle series, starting with Unsouled, immerses you in a world with a deep power cultivation system and a relatable protagonist, Lindon. Born as an "Unsouled" with no apparent path to power, Lindon's journey is one of resilience and discovery. With a satisfying conclusion in 12 books, Will Wight's series is a must-read, complemented by his other excellent works.
Beware of Chicken
### Beware of Chicken
30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Beware of Chicken takes a unique approach, focusing on a cultivator named Jin Rou who abandons the path to power for a peaceful life as a farmer. This series offers a refreshing change of pace, blending relaxation with LitRPG elements. It's a delightful read that explores themes of friendship, family, and unexpected sources of strength.
Defiance of the Fall
### Defiance of the Fall
36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Defiance of the Fall is a gripping series that begins with Zachary Atwood's sudden integration into the multiverse. With a complex leveling system and continuous challenges, this series keeps readers engaged through 14 books, with a 15th on the way. It's a long-term commitment that rewards with a deep dive into the multiverse's secrets.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Arcane Ascension series, beginning with Sufficiently Advanced Magic, introduces a world governed by god-like beings offering magical "attunements" through dungeon-like spires. Corin Cadence's quest to find his lost brother and earn his own attunement is filled with intrigue and complex magic systems. Andrew Rowe's series, with its Harry Potter-esque magic school setting, is a fantastic entry point into LitRPG, further expanded by his companion series.
The Grand Game
### The Grand Game
15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Grand Game offers a stealth-based narrative in the Forever Kingdom, where Michael, an amnesiac, must navigate dungeons and uncover the world's mysteries. With unique gameplay elements and a focus on strategic advancement, this series is a fresh take on the genre. Seven books are currently available, with more on the horizon.
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Completionist Chronicles start with The Ritualist, offering a blend of traditional RPG elements and unique twists. Joe, an ex-military medic in a wheelchair, finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist. The series evolves into different worlds, maintaining its engaging narrative throughout 11 books.
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Underworld series presents a slow-burn narrative where Elorian, a high school gamer, finds himself in the literal underworld with other gamers, facing challenges from an ancient succubus. With a mix of adventure and unique settings like the underworld's dungeons, this series is an excellent introduction to the LitRPG genre.
