Top 10 LitRPG Books to Read in 2025

Reading is my all-time favorite hobby. While I enjoy playing video games and watching TV, nothing quite matches the thrill of diving deep into a captivating book series. My love for reading was sparked by the Harry Potter books, which opened the door to a broader exploration of genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it wasn't until I discovered the LitRPG genre that I found my true passion. This genre quickly became an obsession, and now it's the only type of reading I indulge in. If you're curious about LitRPG, here are my top recommendations to help you immerse yourself in this exciting world.

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 perfect for avid readers looking to save money, especially considering the extensive number of books in some of these series. If you prefer listening to your stories, they're also available via an Audible subscription.

What Is LitRPG?

For those new to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This means the story incorporates RPG elements similar to those found in video games. While some stories involve characters being pulled into video game worlds, the genre is much broader. LitRPG books typically feature a leveling system and a power hierarchy that the protagonist must navigate and overcome through experience. The books I've highlighted include a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, both of which deliver a similar engaging 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 whirlwind of fast-paced action and sharp wit, boasting some of the most memorable lines I've encountered. The unique leveling system and well-crafted characters immerse you in a universe that's both fantastical and comedic. This series is my top pick for its consistent quality across 11 books, with more on the horizon from author Shirtaloon.

The story follows Jason Asano, who wakes up in a magical world inside a hedge maze, sporting new powers but no hair. His quirky and determined approach to his bizarre new life helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even complex relationships with surprising ease. Jason's morally ambiguous nature makes him a compelling protagonist throughout the series.

2. The Path of Ascension

### The Path of Ascension

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

The Path of Ascension stands out with its richly developed universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals. Unlike traditional LitRPG, the protagonist isn't transported to another world but embarks on a journey within his own.

The narrative follows Matt, an orphan with dreams of diving into rifts to avenge his parents' deaths. However, his hopes are dashed when he receives a detrimental Tier 1 talent. Matt's journey to overcome his limitations through sheer hard work and determination is both inspiring and captivating. The series truly shines with the character development in books two and three, cementing its place among my favorites.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

### Dungeon Crawler Carl

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

Dungeon Crawler Carl is an adrenaline-fueled journey that maintains its momentum throughout. The protagonist, Carl, breaks away from typical tropes, and his companion, a cat named Princess Donut, adds a delightful twist to the narrative. This series is a standout in the LitRPG genre for its humor, action, and engaging skill progression.

Carl finds himself trapped in an underground dungeon during the apocalypse, alongside his ex-girlfriend's cat. Together, they navigate a bizarre intergalactic game show run by advanced alien races and a quirky AI. The series remains as intriguing in its seventh book as it was in the first, with author Matt Dinniman delivering consistently captivating content.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

The Cradle series offers a deep dive into a fully realized world without the typical otherworldly transport of its protagonist. The unique system of power cultivation and the likable main character, Lindon, make this series a top choice for fantasy enthusiasts exploring LitRPG.

Lindon, born as an "Unsouled," faces the challenge of mastering the sacred arts in his village despite his apparent lack of potential. His journey, filled with determination and ingenuity, leads to a path of power guided by celestial intervention. With a satisfying conclusion after 12 books, the series is a must-read, and author Will Wight's other works are equally compelling.

5. Beware of Chicken

### Beware of Chicken

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

Beware of Chicken takes a refreshingly unique approach among LitRPG series. Instead of relentless action, it focuses on a protagonist who opts for a peaceful life over power.

The story follows Jin Rou, a cultivator who, after a near-death experience and a consciousness swap with someone from Earth, decides to abandon his quest for martial arts mastery to become a farmer. His journey to a serene life is filled with unexpected friendships, family, and a new source of power. This series is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed read within the LitRPG genre.

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 but rewarding series that keeps readers engaged from the first book to the upcoming 15th installment. The narrative kicks off with an explosive start and never loses its momentum as the protagonist faces one challenge after another.

Zachary Atwood finds himself alone when the world integrates into the multiverse, facing a new "System" with quests and notifications. Armed with just a hatchet and his wits, Zac fights to survive an alien invasion and reunite with his family, uncovering the multiverse's secrets along the way. The series' intricate leveling system and skill progression add depth to Zac's journey beyond Earth.

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 offers a unique take on LitRPG by focusing on a complex magic system without the typical stat sheets. The world is run by god-like beings who offer "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires.

The story follows Corin Cadence, who seeks to uncover the fate of his brother lost in the Serpent Spire years ago. As he navigates the trials to earn his own attunement, he discovers new mysteries and forms bonds with fellow students at Lorian Heights Academy. This series, reminiscent of Harry Potter with its magical school setting, is an excellent entry point into LitRPG. Author Andrew Rowe's companion series further enriches the narrative.

8. The Grand Game

### The Grand Game

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

The Grand Game caters to fans of stealth games, offering a LitRPG experience centered around an assassin protagonist who navigates challenges through cunning and stealth.

Michael, the protagonist, wakes up in the Forever Kingdom with no memory beyond his name. Among other newcomers, he must fight and level up to survive a dungeon filled with monsters and uncover the secrets of the world controlled by the elite Powers. With a unique perspective on the genre, The Grand Game is compelling and enjoyable, with books eight and nine available for preorder.

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

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

The Completionist Chronicles serve as an excellent entry point into LitRPG, offering familiar RPG elements with intriguing twists that keep you turning pages.

The story centers on Joe, an ex-military medic now using a wheelchair, who finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist. His unique situation and skill set lead him on a quest-filled journey to level his magic and abilities. As the series progresses, Joe's adventures take him to new worlds, making for an exciting 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

The Underworld series is a slow burn, set in a literal underworld filled with adventure and unique challenges. Unlike other series, it doesn't transport the protagonist to a magical realm but places them in a darker, more dangerous setting.

Elorian, a high school gamer, finds himself trapped in the underworld with other players, facing an ancient succubus who drains their power as they level up. With a cast of characters including vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, this series offers a thrilling entry into LitRPG.