Reading is my absolute favorite pastime. While I enjoy video games and TV, nothing quite 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. It quickly became an all-consuming obsession, and now it's the only kind of reading I do. If you're intrigued by the exciting world of LitRPG, here are some of my top recommendations.
Our Top Pick: 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 similar to 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 precisely. 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.
AnswerSee Results
1. He Who Fights with Monsters
Our Top Pick: He Who Fights With Monsters
95 Book 1 of 11
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
He Who Fights with Monsters is fast-paced, action-packed, and boasts some of the best dialogue I've ever encountered. Its unique leveling system and memorable characters make it a must-read for fantasy comedy lovers. This remains my favorite LitRPG series, with each installment matching the quality of the first.
The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world's hedge maze, possessing new powers but no hair. His resilient and quirky approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even relationships. It's a fantastic read featuring a morally complex protagonist you'll adore.
The series, by author Shirtaloon, is currently eleven books strong, with more on the horizon.
2. The Path of Ascension
The Path of Ascension
33 Book 1 of 8
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Path of Ascension differs slightly; the protagonist isn't transported to another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals ("rifts") and powerful immortals.
The story follows Matt, an orphan who dreams of entering rifts and battling the monsters that killed his parents. His aspirations are initially dashed by a weak initial talent, forcing him to overcome limitations through hard work and determination.
While the first book captivated me, the character development in books two and three cemented its place among my favorites.
3. Dungeon Crawler Carl
Dungeon Crawler Carl
74 Book 1 of 7
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Dungeon Crawler Carl is a relentlessly fast-paced adventure featuring an unconventional protagonist and a wonderful cat, Princess Donut (arguably the true star). What more could you want in a top-tier LitRPG series?
The story follows Carl, who finds himself stuck with his ex's cat when the world ends, forcing them into an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show run by advanced races and a chaotic AI. It's a fun adventure brimming with memorable lines, action, and satisfying skill progression.
The seventh book, released in 2024, maintained the intrigue of the first. Author Matt Dinniman has other worthwhile works if you enjoy his style.
4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)
Unsouled (Cradle Series)
32 Book 1 of 12
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Like The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve transportation to another universe. The author masterfully immerses you in a deep, existing world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. Unsouled is perfect for fantasy fans who aren't strictly LitRPG enthusiasts.
The story follows Lindon, born "Unsouled" with seemingly no hope of mastering the sacred arts. Despite his determination and intelligence, he's destined for powerlessness until a celestial intervention provides a path forward.
The twelve-book Cradle series concludes satisfyingly. If you enjoy this series (and I highly recommend you do), explore more of Will Wight's excellent work.
5. Beware of Chicken
Beware of Chicken
30 Book 1 of 4
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
Beware of Chicken is the most unique series on this list. Unlike the action-packed adventures above, this is a tale of a man who abandons the path to power to become a farmer.
The story follows Jin Rou, a hardworking cultivator striving for martial arts mastery. After his death, an Earthling enters his consciousness, leading the new Jin Rou to reject the cultivator's world and embrace a peaceful farming life. In his pursuit of tranquility, he finds friendship, family, and an unexpected source of power.
Beware of Chicken is surprisingly delightful. If you desire a relaxing yet satisfying LitRPG fantasy read, this is it.
6. Defiance of the Fall
Defiance of the Fall
36 Book 1 of 15
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
As the longest series, Defiance of the Fall is a significant commitment, but entirely worthwhile. The story begins explosively and maintains its momentum as the protagonist faces continuous challenges.
The story follows Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. Confronted by a new "System" with quests and notifications, Zac must survive an invasion with only a hatchet and luck. His fight for his family reveals the secrets of his new existence and the multiverse.
With fourteen books and a fifteenth on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers much beyond the first book. Its complex leveling system and skill progression are unique and captivating, with the story truly unfolding as Zac ventures beyond Earth.
7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)
30 Book 1 of 5
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Arcane Ascension series forgoes detailed stat sheets and complex leveling systems. Instead, it immerses you in a world ruled by powerful beings who offer special magic ("attunements") to those surviving their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system is uniquely fascinating, explored through the protagonist's enthusiastic discoveries.
The first-person narrative follows Corin Cadence, who, after losing his brother in the Serpent Spire years prior, must now face its trials to earn his attunement. His journey reveals further mysteries he must uncover with new friends at Lorian Heights Academy.
Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway into LitRPG. With its Harry Potter-esque magic school setting and rich fantasy elements, it's an excellent introduction to the genre. Andrew Rowe also has several companion series expanding on the main story.
8. The Grand Game
The Grand Game
15 Book 1 of 9
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
For stealth game enthusiasts, The Grand Game is an exceptional choice. Unlike other entries, the protagonist is an assassin who prefers subtlety over brute force.
The Grand Game follows Michael, who arrives in the Forever Kingdom with amnesia, retaining only his name. Among other newcomers, he must learn to fight, progress through a monster-filled dungeon, and survive. As he levels up and acquires new skills, he unravels the mysteries of this world, ruled by elites known as Powers, and his place within the Grand Game.
The Grand Game offers a unique take on the genre. While currently seven books long, books eight and nine are available for pre-order.
9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)
30 Book 1 of 11
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Completionist Chronicles is an excellent starting point for LitRPG. It features familiar MMO RPG elements with unique twists that will keep you hooked.
The story centers on Joe, a wheelchair-bound ex-military medic. When a friend offers him a chance to fully immerse himself in a new virtual MMORPG, he seizes the opportunity and finds a new life within the game. His unique background leads him to a secret class, the Ritualist, allowing him to level up his magic and skills through quests.
The series evolves rapidly in later books, venturing into entirely new worlds, but remains engaging throughout.
10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)
23
See it at AmazonSee it at Audible
The Underworld series is a slow burn. Unlike other entries where protagonists are transported to magical worlds, Level Up or Die takes place in the literal underworld.
The story follows Elorian, a high school gamer who finds himself trapped in the underworld with fellow gamers. Despite possessing magical powers and infinite leveling capabilities, none are happy with their situation. An ancient succubus brought them there to drain their power as they level up in the dungeons beneath the Earth's crust. This series, filled with vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, is an action-packed introduction to LitRPG.
