10 LitRPG Books I Recommend You Start Reading in 2025

Home News 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—a swift and complete obsession that now defines my reading choices. If you're curious to explore the exciting world of LitRPG, here are some of my top recommendations.

A fantastic aspect of these books is their availability with a Kindle Unlimited subscription. 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. The stories incorporate RPG elements similar to video games. While some feature characters literally entering video games, the genre is much broader. All LitRPG includes game-like elements, but not all are strictly video game-like. The books listed below share leveling systems and power hierarchies the protagonists must overcome through experience. I've included a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar reading experiences.

Have you read a LitRPG series before? Yes!No!

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1. He Who Fights with Monsters

He Who Fights With Monsters

Book 1 of 11

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Fast-paced and action-packed, He Who Fights with Monsters boasts memorable lines and a unique leveling system. With compelling characters, it's a must-read for fantasy comedy lovers. This is my personal favorite, consistently delivering high-quality entries.

The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world with newfound powers and a surprising lack of hair. His resilient and humorous approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even complex relationships. A fantastic read with a morally grey protagonist you'll adore.

The series is currently eleven books long, with more planned by author Shirtaloon.

2. The Path of Ascension

The Path of Ascension

Book 1 of 8

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Less traditional than others on this list, The Path of Ascension features a richly imagined world of magical dungeon portals ("rifts") and powerful immortals.

The story centers on Matt, an orphan who dreams of conquering rifts and the monsters that killed his parents. His initial setback—a weak talent—forces 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

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Dungeon Crawler Carl is a relentlessly paced adventure featuring an unconventional protagonist and a fantastic cat, 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 dialogue, action, and satisfying skill progression.

The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the series' high standard. Author Matt Dinniman has other works worth exploring if you enjoy his style.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Book 1 of 12

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Similar to The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series avoids the "sucked into another universe" trope, instead immersing you in a deep, existing world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. A great choice for fantasy fans even if they 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

Book 1 of 4

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Beware of Chicken stands out with its unique approach. Unlike the action-packed adventures of other entries, this is a tale of a man who abandons the pursuit of power to become a farmer.

The story follows Jin Rou, a cultivator striving for martial arts mastery, who dies and is replaced by an Earthling consciousness. The new Jin Rou rejects the cultivator's world for a peaceful life as a farmer, discovering unexpected friendships, family, and a surprising source of power.

Beware of Chicken is unexpectedly delightful, offering a relaxing yet satisfying LitRPG experience.

6. Defiance of the Fall

Defiance of the Fall

Book 1 of 15

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The longest series on this list, Defiance of the Fall is a rewarding long-term commitment. The action-packed start never falters as the protagonist faces continuous challenges.

The story begins with Zachary Atwood, alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. Suddenly burdened with a "System" of notifications and quests, Zac must survive an invasion with minimal resources. As he fights towards his family, he uncovers the secrets of his new existence.

With fourteen books released and a fifteenth on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers a compelling, complex leveling system and skill progression, expanding significantly beyond Earth.

7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Book 1 of 5

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Arcane Ascension forgoes detailed stat sheets and complex leveling, instead presenting a world ruled by powerful beings who offer unique magic ("attunements") to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system is fascinating, explored through the protagonist's enthusiastic discoveries.

The first-person narrative follows Corin Cadence, who confronts the Serpent Spire trials to earn his attunement, uncovering even more mysteries with the help of new friends at Lorian Heights Academy.

Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway to LitRPG. With its Harry Potter-esque magic school setting and rich fantasy elements, it's an accessible introduction to the genre. Andrew Rowe's companion series further expand this captivating world.

8. The Grand Game

The Grand Game

Book 1 of 9

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For stealth game enthusiasts, The Grand Game is a superb choice. Unlike other entries, the protagonist is an assassin who prefers subterfuge.

The story follows Michael, who appears in the Forever Kingdom with amnesia, learning to fight and progress through a monster-filled dungeon. As he levels up, he uncovers the world's secrets and his role in the "Grand Game," orchestrated by powerful elites.

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)

Book 1 of 11

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The Completionist Chronicles is an excellent entry point to LitRPG, featuring familiar MMO elements with unique twists that keep you engaged.

The story centers on Joe, a wheelchair-bound ex-military medic who immerses himself in a virtual MMORPG, discovering a secret "Ritualist" class and leveling his magic and skills through quests.

The series evolves rapidly in later books, introducing entirely new worlds, maintaining its engaging nature throughout.

10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

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The Underworld series is a slow-burn narrative. Unlike others where characters are transported to magical worlds, Level Up or Die takes place in the literal underworld.

The story follows Elorian, a gamer who finds himself trapped in the underworld with other gamers, granted magical powers and infinite leveling capabilities, yet unhappy with their predicament. They were brought there by a succubus intent on draining their power. This series is packed with adventure, featuring vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, making it an ideal starting point for LitRPG.