Top 10 LitRPG Books to Read in 2025

Reading has always been my passion, far surpassing the enjoyment I get from video games and television. My journey into the world of literature began with the enchanting Harry Potter series, but it was the discovery of the LitRPG genre that truly captivated me. Once I found LitRPG, my reading interests narrowed down to this genre exclusively. If you're curious about diving into LitRPG, here are my top recommendations that I believe anyone would 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

All the books listed here are available through a Kindle Unlimited subscription, which is a cost-effective way to enjoy these extensive series. Additionally, they are accessible via an Audible subscription for those who prefer listening over reading.

What Is LitRPG?

For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG, or literary role-playing game, integrates elements similar to those found in video games into its storytelling. While some stories might involve characters being transported into a video game world, the genre is broader, often featuring game-like mechanics such as leveling systems and power hierarchies. My recommendations include a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar engaging experiences.

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 I've encountered. Set in a universe with a unique leveling system and compelling characters, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. This is my top LitRPG series, with each new book maintaining the high quality of the first.

The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world inside a hedge maze, equipped with new powers and no hair. His quirky and determined approach to his new reality helps him navigate challenges from cannibals and monsters to complex personal relationships. The series, now on its 11th book, continues to deliver with more on the way from author Shirtaloon.

The Path of Ascension

### The Path of Ascension

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

"The Path of Ascension" offers a less traditional LitRPG experience, focusing on a richly developed universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals. The protagonist, Matt, an orphan with dreams of battling the monsters that killed his parents, faces a setback when his unique talent is revealed to be a low-tier one. His journey to overcome this and rise through hard work and determination is both inspiring and engaging.

The character development in the subsequent books truly cements this series as one of my favorites.

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 a unique protagonist and the unforgettable cat, Princess Donut, who might just steal the show. When the world ends, Carl finds himself trapped with his ex-girlfriend's cat, forced into an underground dungeon that serves as an intergalactic game show run by advanced races and a wild AI.

The series, now on its seventh book released in 2024, maintains its high level of excitement and intrigue. Matt Dinniman, the author, has other works that are equally worth exploring.

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

The "Cradle" series, like "The Path of Ascension," immerses readers in a deeply crafted world without transporting the protagonist to another universe. With a unique power cultivation system and a highly relatable main character, "Unsouled" is perfect for fantasy lovers who might not be fully committed to LitRPG.

The story follows Lindon, born as an "Unsouled" with no apparent path to power in his village. His journey, driven by determination and intelligence, takes a turn when the heavens offer him a chance to rise.

The series concludes satisfyingly after 12 books, and I highly recommend exploring more from author Will Wight.

Beware of Chicken

### Beware of Chicken

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

"Beware of Chicken" stands out with its unique premise. Unlike the action-heavy series on this list, it follows Jin Rou, a cultivator who, after dying, is replaced by someone from Earth. The new Jin Rou opts for a peaceful life as a farmer, finding unexpected power and fulfillment in his new, quiet existence.

This series offers a refreshing and relaxing read while still satisfying the LitRPG fantasy craving.

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 but rewarding series. It starts with Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. Armed with just a hatchet and luck, he battles an invading force while trying to reunite with his family, uncovering the secrets of the multiverse along the way.

With 14 books already out and a 15th on the way, the series offers a complex leveling system and skill progression that keeps readers engaged.

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 a world governed by god-like beings who grant "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system and the protagonist's journey, Corin Cadence, as he seeks to uncover the fate of his lost brother, make this series a compelling entry into LitRPG.

"Sufficiently Advanced Magic" was my gateway into the genre, offering a magic school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enrich the main storyline.

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, following Michael, who finds himself in the Forever Kingdom with no memory except his name. As he navigates a dungeon filled with monsters and learns to level up, he uncovers the workings of the world controlled by the elite Powers.

This series offers a fresh take on the genre, with books eight and nine available for preorder.

The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

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

"The Completionist Chronicles" are perfect for those new to LitRPG, featuring familiar RPG elements with unique twists. The series follows Joe, an ex-military medic in a wheelchair, who finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist, leveling up through quests.

The series expands into different worlds in later books, making it a continuously engaging read.

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

### Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

"Level Up or Die" is a slow-burning series set in the literal underworld. Elorian, a high school gamer, finds himself trapped with other gamers, facing an ancient succubus who drains their power as they level up in dungeons beneath the Earth's crust. Filled with vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, this series offers a thrilling introduction to LitRPG.