Reading has always been my ultimate passion, eclipsing even my love for video games and TV shows. My journey into the world of books began with the enchanting universe of Harry Potter, and from there, my literary appetite expanded to encompass sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and even non-fiction. However, it was the discovery of the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, leading to an all-consuming obsession that now dominates my reading habits. If you're curious about diving into this fascinating genre, here are my top LitRPG recommendations that I believe everyone should explore.

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 best aspects of these recommended books is their availability through a Kindle Unlimited subscription. Given the extensive number of books in some of these series, I highly recommend subscribing to save money each month. Additionally, each title is also accessible with an Audible subscription for those who prefer audiobooks.

What Is LitRPG?

For those new to the genre, LitRPG, or literary role-playing game, integrates RPG elements reminiscent of video games into its storytelling. While some narratives might transport the protagonist into a literal game world, the genre's scope is broader. Every LitRPG book incorporates game-like features, but not all strictly mimic video games. The books highlighted here feature a leveling system and a power hierarchy that the protagonist must navigate and overcome through experience. My selections include a blend of progression fantasy and LitRPG, both of which provide a similar immersive experience.

1. 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 that boasts some of the wittiest dialogue I've encountered. Set in a universe with a unique leveling system and engaging characters, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. This series is my top favorite, with each new book maintaining the high standard set by the first.

The story centers on Jason Asano, who finds himself in a magical world, inside a hedge maze, with new powers but no hair. His offbeat and determined approach to his bizarre situation helps him navigate encounters with cannibals, monsters, and even complex personal relationships. With a morally ambiguous yet lovable protagonist, this series is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Currently, "He Who Fights with Monsters" is on its 11th book, with more to come from author Shirtaloon.

2. The Path of Ascension

### The Path of Ascension

33Book 1 of 8See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"The Path of Ascension" offers a unique twist on the LitRPG genre, focusing on a world with magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals with distinct talents. The protagonist, Matt, an orphan with dreams of exploring rifts to avenge his parents' deaths, faces a setback when he receives a detrimental Tier 1 talent. His journey to overcome this through hard work and determination is both inspiring and captivating.

While the first book hooked me, it was the character development in books two and three that cemented this series as one of my favorites.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

### Dungeon Crawler Carl

74Book 1 of 7See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"Dungeon Crawler Carl" is a relentless adventure filled with humor and action. The story follows Carl, who, along with his ex-girlfriend's cat, Princess Donut (arguably the real star), is thrust into an underground dungeon that doubles as an intergalactic game show. The series offers a fresh take on the genre with its quirky characters and engaging plot.

The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the series' high level of excitement. If you enjoy author Matt Dinniman's style, his other works are also worth exploring.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

32Book 1 of 12See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

The "Cradle" series, like "The Path of Ascension," doesn't rely on the trope of the protagonist being transported to another world. Instead, it immerses you in a rich, existing world with a unique power cultivation system. The story follows Lindon, born "Unsouled" and seemingly destined to remain powerless. His journey to defy his fate is compelling and richly detailed.

With a satisfying conclusion in its 12th book, the series is a must-read. Will Wight's other works are equally commendable and worth exploring.

5. Beware of Chicken

### Beware of Chicken

30Book 1 of 4See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"Beware of Chicken" stands out for its unique premise. Unlike the action-heavy series on this list, it focuses on a protagonist, Jin Rou, who abandons the path to power for a peaceful life as a farmer. After a near-death experience, Jin Rou, now inhabited by a soul from Earth, seeks tranquility and finds unexpected strength and community.

This series offers a refreshing and relaxing read that still satisfies the LitRPG fantasy craving.

6. Defiance of the Fall

### Defiance of the Fall

36Book 1 of 15See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"Defiance of the Fall" is a long-running series that keeps readers engaged from the explosive start in book one. It follows Zachary Atwood, who must navigate a new multiverse system after Earth integrates into it. His journey from survival to uncovering the multiverse's secrets is filled with challenges and intrigue.

With 14 books released and a 15th on the way, the series offers a complex and unique leveling system that adds depth to the narrative.

7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

30Book 1 of 5See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

The "Arcane Ascension" series introduces readers to a world governed by god-like beings who offer magical "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The story follows Corin Cadence, who enters the spires to find answers about his brother's disappearance and earn his own attunement.

This series, with its magic school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter, served as my gateway into LitRPG. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enriches the narrative and are highly recommended.

8. The Grand Game

### The Grand Game

15Book 1 of 9See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"The Grand Game" appeals to fans of stealth games, featuring Michael, an amnesiac who finds himself in the Forever Kingdom. His journey through a dungeon-filled world, learning to fight and level up, is both thrilling and unique.

With seven books released and two more available for preorder, this series offers a fresh perspective on the genre.

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

30Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"The Completionist Chronicles" is an excellent entry point into LitRPG, with its MMO-like elements and unique twists. The story follows Joe, an ex-military medic in a wheelchair, who finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist.

The series evolves into different worlds as it progresses, making it a compelling and enjoyable read from start to finish.

10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"Level Up or Die" takes a darker turn, set in the literal underworld. Elorian, a high school gamer, finds himself trapped with other gamers, forced to level up to survive an ancient succubus's schemes. Filled with vampires, dragons, and demons, this series is a thrilling introduction to LitRPG.