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 the magic of 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 intrigued by the exciting world of LitRPG, here are some of my top recommendations:

Our Top Pick: He Who Fights With Monsters

95

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The Path of Ascension

33

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Dungeon Crawler Carl

74

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Unsouled (Cradle Series)

32

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Beware of Chicken

30

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Defiance of the Fall

36

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Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

30

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The Grand Game

15

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The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

30

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Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

23

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A fantastic aspect of these books is their availability through Kindle Unlimited. Given the length of some series, a subscription offers significant savings. Audible subscriptions provide an alternative listening option.

What is LitRPG?

For newcomers, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. The stories incorporate RPG elements reminiscent of video games. Sometimes, characters are literally transported into a game, but the genre is far broader. While all LitRPG features game-like elements, not every book mirrors a video game precisely. The books listed below all feature leveling systems and power hierarchies that the protagonists must navigate through experience. I've included a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar reading experiences.

1. He Who Fights with Monsters

Our Top Pick: He Who Fights With Monsters

Book 1 of 11

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This fast-paced, action-packed series boasts some of the best dialogue I've encountered. Its unique leveling system and compelling characters make it a must-read for fantasy comedy lovers. Each installment maintains the high quality of the first.

The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical world with newfound powers and a surprising lack of hair. His resilient and unconventional approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and even relationships. A fantastic read featuring a morally complex protagonist you'll instantly connect with. The series is currently 11 books long, with more planned.

2. The Path of Ascension

The Path of Ascension

Book 1 of 8

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Unlike some entries, this series doesn't involve being pulled into another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals ("rifts") and powerful immortals. The story follows Matt, an orphan who dreams of conquering rifts and the monsters that killed his parents. His initial setback with a weak talent forces him to overcome adversity through hard work and determination. While the first book hooked me, the character development in books two and three solidified its place as a favorite.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

Dungeon Crawler Carl

Book 1 of 7

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This fast-paced adventure features a unique protagonist and a wonderful cat, Princess Donut (arguably the true star!). The story follows Carl, who finds himself stuck 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, action-packed journey with excellent dialogue and skill progression.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Book 1 of 12

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Similar to *The Path of Ascension*, this series doesn't involve dimensional transport. It immerses you in a deep world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable protagonist. It's a top pick for fantasy fans, even those not strictly into LitRPG. The story follows Lindon, an "Unsouled" individual with seemingly no hope of mastering the sacred arts. Despite his determination, he's destined for powerlessness until a chance intervention changes his fate. The 12-book series concludes with a satisfying ending.

5. Beware of Chicken

Beware of Chicken

Book 1 of 4

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This series is the most unique on the list. Unlike the action-packed adventures above, it focuses on a man who abandons the path to power to become a farmer. The story follows Jin Rou, a cultivator who dies and is replaced by a consciousness from Earth. The new Jin Rou chooses peace over power, finding friendship, family, and unexpected strength in his new life.

6. Defiance of the Fall

Defiance of the Fall

Book 1 of 15

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This lengthy series is a worthwhile commitment. It begins with a bang and maintains its momentum as the protagonist faces continuous challenges. The story follows Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone when the world merges with the multiverse. He must survive an invasion with minimal resources, uncovering the secrets of this new existence.

7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

Book 1 of 5

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This series eschews detailed stat sheets and complex leveling systems. It presents a world ruled by powerful beings who grant special magic ("attunements") to those who survive their trials. The story follows Corin Cadence, who seeks his own attunement after his brother's death.

8. The Grand Game

The Grand Game

Book 1 of 9

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For stealth game fans, this series is a perfect choice. The protagonist is an assassin who prefers subtlety. The story follows Michael, who awakens in the Forever Kingdom with amnesia, navigating a dungeon and uncovering the secrets of this world ruled by the "Powers."

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

Book 1 of 11

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An excellent entry-level LitRPG series, featuring familiar MMO elements with unique twists. It follows Joe, a wheelchair-bound ex-medic who finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG, taking on a secret class.

10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

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This series is a slow burn, taking place in the literal underworld. It follows Elorian, a gamer trapped in the underworld with others, facing dangers and leveling up while being pursued by a powerful succubus.