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 compares to the immersive experience of diving into a captivating book series. My love for reading was sparked by the Harry Potter books, which led me to explore various genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and even non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, becoming my sole focus and passion. If you're curious about exploring the fascinating world of 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

One of the best aspects of these recommended books is that they are all accessible through a Kindle Unlimited subscription. Given the extensive number of books in some of these series, subscribing can be a cost-effective way to enjoy them. Additionally, each title is available via an Audible subscription for those who prefer listening to their stories.

What Is LitRPG?

For newcomers to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This genre integrates RPG elements similar to those found in video games into its narratives. While some stories might involve characters being transported into a game world, the genre is broader, encompassing various game-like mechanics. A common thread in LitRPG is a leveling system and a power hierarchy that characters must navigate through experience. My list includes a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, both of which provide 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 thrilling, action-packed series with some of the most memorable lines 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 installment 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 bizarre situation helps him navigate challenges ranging from cannibals and monsters to complex personal relationships. Jason's morally complex character adds depth and keeps readers engaged throughout the series, which is currently 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 less traditional LitRPG experience, as the protagonist isn't transported to another world. Instead, it presents a richly detailed universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals with unique talents.

The narrative follows Matt, a young orphan driven by the dream of diving into rifts to battle the monsters that killed his parents. However, his aspirations are dashed when he receives a detrimental Tier 1 talent. Matt's journey to overcome his limitations through hard work and determination is compelling. 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 fast-paced adventure that never lets up. It features a unique protagonist who defies typical tropes, alongside the delightful Princess Donut, a cat who might just steal the show. This series is a standout in the LitRPG genre.

The story revolves around Carl, who finds himself trapped with his ex-girlfriend's cat when the world ends. They are thrust into an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show run by advanced races and a chaotic AI. The series is filled with humor, action, and skill progression, keeping fans engaged. The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the excitement of the first. Author Matt Dinniman's other works are also worth exploring if you enjoy his style.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

Similar to The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve the protagonist being pulled into another universe. Instead, it immerses readers in a deeply developed world with a unique power cultivation system and a likable main character. Unsouled is an excellent choice for fantasy lovers who might not be fully committed to LitRPG.

The story follows Lindon, born as an "Unsouled" with no apparent path to the sacred arts of his village. Despite his intelligence and determination, he seems destined for powerlessness until a divine intervention offers him a chance to rise. The series concludes satisfyingly after 12 books, and I highly recommend exploring more from author Will Wight, whose 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 stands out as the most unique series on this list. While other featured books are packed with action and adventure, this one takes a different approach, focusing on a man who abandons the path to power to become a farmer.

The narrative follows Jin Rou, a dedicated cultivator striving for martial arts mastery. After his death, someone from Earth takes over his consciousness and decides to leave the world of powerful cultivators behind for a peaceful farming life. In his pursuit of tranquility, Jin Rou discovers friendship, family, and an unexpected source of power. This series offers a relaxing yet satisfying LitRPG experience.

6. Defiance of the Fall

### Defiance of the Fall

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

Defiance of the Fall is the longest series on my list, offering a rewarding long-term commitment. The first book kicks off with an exciting start, and the series maintains its momentum as the protagonist faces one challenge after another.

The story begins with Zachary Atwood, who finds himself alone when the world integrates into the multiverse. Confronted by a new "System" with notifications and quests, Zac must survive an invading force using only a hatchet and sheer luck. As he journeys to reunite with his family, he uncovers the secrets of the multiverse. With 14 books already released and a 15th on the way, Defiance of the Fall offers a complex leveling system and skill progression that keeps readers hooked.

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 forgoes traditional stat sheets and complex leveling systems, instead immersing readers in a world governed by powerful god-like beings who offer "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The intricate magic system is both fascinating and engaging as the protagonist explores its depths.

The story is told in the first person by Corin Cadence, who, after losing his brother to the Serpent Spire, must face the trials within to earn his own attunement. His journey through the spires raises more questions, which he seeks to answer with the help of new friends at Lorian Heights Academy. Sufficiently Advanced Magic was my gateway into LitRPG, offering a magic school setting reminiscent of Harry Potter within a rich fantasy world. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enrich the narrative and are well worth reading.

8. The Grand Game

### The Grand Game

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

If you're a fan of stealth games, The Grand Game is a perfect series to explore. Unlike other books on this list, its protagonist is an assassin who prefers to navigate challenges covertly.

The story follows Michael, who awakens in the Forever Kingdom with no memory except his name. Among other newcomers, he must learn to fight and advance through a dungeon filled with monsters. As he levels up and discovers new skills, he uncovers more about this world controlled by a group of elites called Powers and his role in the Grand Game. With a unique take on the genre, The Grand Game is a compelling read. Although there are currently seven books, both the eighth and ninth are available for preorder.

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

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

For those new to LitRPG, the Completionist Chronicles offer an excellent entry point. The series incorporates familiar RPG elements from MMOs but adds unique twists that make it hard to put down.

The story centers on Joe, an ex-military medic confined to a wheelchair after a severe injury. When an old friend offers him a chance to immerse himself in a new virtual MMORPG, Joe seizes the opportunity and discovers a new life within the game. As a Ritualist, a secret class, he leverages his unique skills and situation to level up through quests. The series expands into different worlds in later books, providing a consistently engaging read.

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 the literal underworld rather than a fantastical realm. It offers a unique take on the LitRPG genre.

The narrative follows Elorian, an average high school student and avid gamer, who finds himself trapped in the underworld with other gamers. Despite being granted magical powers and the ability to level up infinitely, none of them are thrilled about their situation. An ancient succubus is draining their excess power as they navigate dungeons beneath the Earth's crust, facing vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats. This series is full of adventure and is an excellent starting point for those new to LitRPG.