10 LitRPG Books I Recommend You Start Reading in 2025

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 type of reading I pursue. If you're curious about the wonderful world of LitRPG, here are some of my top recommendations.

Our Top Pick: He Who Fights With Monsters

95

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

The Path of Ascension

33

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Dungeon Crawler Carl

74

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

32

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Beware of Chicken

30

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Defiance of the Fall

36

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

30

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

The Grand Game

15

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

30

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

23

See it at Amazon See 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 cost savings. Audible subscriptions provide an alternative listening option for those who prefer audiobooks.

What is LitRPG?

For newcomers, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. Essentially, the story incorporates RPG elements similar to video games. While some feature characters literally transported into games, the genre is far broader. All LitRPG includes game-like elements, but not all mirror video games precisely. The books below share leveling systems and power hierarchies the protagonist must navigate through experience. I've included a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar reading experiences.

Answer
See Results

1. He Who Fights with Monsters

Our Top Pick: He Who Fights With Monsters

Book 1 of 11

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

He Who Fights with Monsters is fast-paced, action-packed, and boasts some of the best dialogue I've encountered. With a unique leveling system and compelling characters, it's a must-read for fantasy comedy lovers. This remains my favorite LitRPG series, with each installment maintaining the high quality of the first.

The story follows Jason Asano, who wakes up in a magical world's hedge maze, possessing new powers but no hair. His determined and unconventional approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even relationships. A fantastic read featuring a morally complex protagonist you'll adore.

The series, by author Shirtaloon, is currently at book 11, with more to come.

2. The Path of Ascension

The Path of Ascension

Book 1 of 8

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

The Path of Ascension differs slightly; the protagonist isn't transported to another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe built 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 dreams are initially dashed by a weak initial talent, forcing him to overcome limitations through hard work 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 Amazon See it at Audible

Dungeon Crawler Carl is a relentlessly fast-paced adventure featuring an unconventional protagonist and a wonderful cat named Princess Donut (arguably the true star). A top-tier LitRPG series.

The story follows Carl, who finds himself 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 filled with witty lines, action, and satisfying skill progression.

The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the intrigue of the first. Author Matt Dinniman's other works are also worth exploring.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Book 1 of 12

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Similar to The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve transportation to another universe. The author masterfully immerses you in a deep world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. A top choice for fantasy fans, even those less interested in hardcore LitRPG.

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 12-book Cradle series concludes satisfyingly. Will Wight's other works are equally recommended.

5. Beware of Chicken

Beware of Chicken

Book 1 of 4

See it at Amazon See 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 power and pursue a peaceful farming life. In his quest for tranquility, he finds friendship, family, and unexpected power.

Beware of Chicken is surprisingly delightful. A relaxing read that still satisfies the LitRPG craving.

6. Defiance of the Fall

Defiance of the Fall

Book 1 of 15

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

The longest series on this list, Defiance of the Fall is a worthwhile commitment. 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. A new "System" with quests forces him to survive an invasion with minimal resources. As he fights towards his family, he uncovers the secrets of his new existence.

With 14 books and a 15th on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers much more than its first book. The complex leveling system and skill progression are unique and engaging, with the story expanding significantly beyond Earth.

7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Book 1 of 5

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

Arcane Ascension avoids detailed stat sheets and complex leveling systems. It presents a world ruled by powerful beings offering 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 faces the spire's trials to earn his attunement after losing his brother years prior. His journey reveals more questions, which he unravels with new friends at Lorian Heights Academy.

Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway into LitRPG. With a Harry Potter-esque magic school setting and rich fantasy elements, it's an accessible entry point. Andrew Rowe's companion series are also worth reading.

8. The Grand Game

The Grand Game

Book 1 of 9

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

For stealth game enthusiasts, The Grand Game is a fantastic choice. Unlike other entries, the protagonist is an assassin who prefers subtlety over direct confrontation.

The story follows Michael, who arrives in the Forever Kingdom with amnesia. He must learn to fight and advance through a monster-filled dungeon alongside other newcomers. As he levels up, he discovers more about this world, ruled by elites called Powers, and his role in the Grand Game.

The Grand Game offers a unique take on the genre. While currently at seven books, books eight and nine are available for pre-order.

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

Book 1 of 11

See it at Amazon See it at Audible

For excellent entry-level LitRPG, the Completionist Chronicles are ideal. It features familiar MMO elements with unique twists that 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 MMORPG, he accepts and finds a new life within the game. His unique background leads him to a secret class, the Ritualist, where he levels his magic and skills through quests.

The series rapidly evolves, transporting you to different worlds, but remains engaging throughout.

10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

See it at Amazon See 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 other gamers. Despite gaining magical powers and infinite leveling, none are happy. They were brought there by a succubus intent on draining their power as they level up in the Earth's dungeons. With vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, this series is full of adventure and serves as a great introduction to LitRPG.