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 diving deep into a captivating book series. My love for reading sparked with the Harry Potter books and has since expanded into various genres like sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and even non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, becoming an all-consuming passion. If you're eager to explore the fascinating world of LitRPG, here are my top recommendations that you shouldn't miss.

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 great advantages of these books is that they're all available through a Kindle Unlimited subscription, which is a cost-effective way to enjoy these series, especially considering the number of books in some of them. If you prefer listening over reading, each title is also accessible with an Audible subscription.

What Is LitRPG?

If you're new to the genre, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game. This genre blends storytelling with RPG mechanics similar to those found in video games. While some stories feature characters being pulled into game worlds, LitRPG is broader, always incorporating game-like elements such as leveling systems and power hierarchies. My selections include both pure LitRPG and progression fantasy, both of which offer engaging narratives and character development through experience and growth.

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 fast-paced, action-packed series with some of the wittiest lines I've encountered. Its unique leveling system and compelling characters make it a must-read, especially 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, endowed with new powers and no hair. His humorous yet determined approach to his new reality helps him navigate encounters with cannibals, monsters, and complex relationships. The series, currently at book 11, continues to deliver with more books promised by the author, Shirtaloon.

2. The Path of Ascension

### The Path of Ascension

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

The Path of Ascension offers a unique twist on the genre, focusing on a rich universe with magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals. The protagonist, Matt, a young orphan, dreams of diving into rifts to avenge his parents, killed by monsters. His journey is complicated by a seemingly disadvantageous Tier 1 talent, but his determination to overcome this setback through hard work is inspiring. The character development in books two and three truly cements this series as one of my favorites.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

### Dungeon Crawler Carl

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

Dungeon Crawler Carl is an exhilarating adventure that maintains a relentless pace. It features an unconventional protagonist and a delightful cat named Princess Donut, who might just steal the show. The story unfolds as Carl, stuck with his ex-girlfriend's cat, faces the end of the world and is thrust into an underground dungeon that doubles as an intergalactic game show. This series, now at its seventh book released in 2024, consistently delivers on its promise of humor, action, and skill progression. Matt Dinniman's other works are also worth exploring if you enjoy his style.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

The Cradle series, like The Path of Ascension, immerses readers in a deeply crafted world without the trope of being pulled into another universe. Its unique power cultivation system and engaging protagonist, Lindon, make it a standout. Born as an "Unsouled" with no apparent path in the sacred arts, Lindon's journey from powerlessness to strength is both inspiring and satisfying. With 12 books culminating in a fulfilling end, Will Wight's other works are equally compelling and recommended.

5. Beware of Chicken

### Beware of Chicken

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

Beware of Chicken offers a refreshing twist on the genre, focusing on a cultivator named Jin Rou who opts for a peaceful life as a farmer over the pursuit of power. After a consciousness swap with someone from Earth, the new Jin Rou embraces a quiet life, finding unexpected strength and fulfillment. This series is perfect for those seeking a relaxing read that still satisfies the LitRPG fantasy craving.

6. Defiance of the Fall

### Defiance of the Fall

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

Defiance of the Fall is a long-term commitment with a rewarding payoff. Starting with a bang, the series follows Zachary Atwood as he navigates a world integrated into the multiverse, facing survival challenges with just a hatchet. The story's complex leveling system and skill progression keep readers engaged, and the narrative expands significantly once Zac ventures beyond Earth. With 14 books and a 15th on the way, there's much to explore.

7. Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

### Sufficiently Advanced Magic (Arcane Ascension)

30Book 1 of 5.See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

The Arcane Ascension series introduces readers to a world where powerful god-like beings offer "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. The protagonist, Corin Cadence, embarks on this journey after losing his brother to the Serpent Spire, eager to uncover the secrets within. The magic system is intricate and fascinating, and the series, reminiscent of Harry Potter, is an excellent entry point into LitRPG. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enrich the main narrative.

8. The Grand Game

### The Grand Game

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

The Grand Game is a thrilling series for fans of stealth gameplay. It follows Michael, who finds himself in the Forever Kingdom with no memory except his name. As he navigates a dungeon filled with monsters, Michael's skills and understanding of the world evolve. This series offers a unique take on the genre, and with books eight and nine available for preorder, there's more excitement on the horizon.

9. The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

### The Ritualist (The Completionist Chronicles)

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

The Completionist Chronicles are ideal for those new to LitRPG. Following Joe, an ex-military medic who uses a wheelchair, the series sees him enter a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist. His unique situation and skills lead to an engaging narrative that evolves into different worlds in later books, making it a fun and continuous 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 that unfolds in a literal underworld. Elorian, an average high school gamer, finds himself trapped there with other gamers, facing an ancient succubus who drains their power. Despite the grim setting, the series is filled with adventure, featuring vampires, dragons, demons, and giant lava cats, making it a great introduction to LitRPG.