Reading is my ultimate passion. While I enjoy video games and TV shows, nothing quite matches the immersive experience of diving into a captivating book series. My love for reading was sparked by the Harry Potter series, and from there, I explored various genres including sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it was the LitRPG genre that truly captured my heart, leading me to focus exclusively on it. If you're eager to explore the thrilling world of LitRPG, here are my top recommendations:

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 I've recommended are available through Kindle Unlimited, which is a cost-effective way to enjoy these extensive series. Additionally, if you prefer audiobooks, each title is accessible via an Audible subscription.

What Is LitRPG?

For newcomers, LitRPG stands for Literary Role-Playing Game. This genre blends storytelling with RPG elements reminiscent of video games. While some stories may involve characters entering actual video game worlds, LitRPG is broader, featuring game-like mechanics such as leveling systems and power hierarchies that characters must navigate. My recommendations include a mix of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar engaging experiences.

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, this series is a must-read for fans of fantasy comedy. Jason Asano, the protagonist, finds himself in a magical world, navigating cannibals, monsters, and complex relationships with humor and resilience. Shirtaloon, the author, continues to expand this captivating series, now on its 11th book.

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 rich universe centered around magical dungeon portals called rifts and powerful immortals. Matt, a young orphan, aspires to dive into rifts to avenge his parents. Despite being assigned a disadvantageous Tier 1 talent, his determination to overcome his limitations makes for a compelling narrative. The character development across the series, particularly in books two and three, solidifies its place 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 offers a relentless adventure with Carl, a man stranded with his ex-girlfriend's cat, Princess Donut, when the world ends. They are thrust into an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show. With humor, action, and intriguing skill progression, this series keeps fans engaged. The latest seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the series' high standards, and author Matt Dinniman's other works are also worth exploring.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

The Cradle series immerses readers in a richly detailed world with a unique power cultivation system. Lindon, born as an "Unsouled," faces a seemingly insurmountable challenge in mastering the sacred arts. Yet, with determination and ingenuity, he finds a path to power. With a satisfying conclusion across 12 books, this series is a must-read, and 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 offers a unique twist by focusing on a cultivator named Jin Rou, who opts for a peaceful farming life over the path to power. After dying and being replaced by someone from Earth, Jin Rou seeks tranquility but finds unexpected sources of strength and community. This series provides a refreshing and relaxing 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-term commitment worth every moment. It begins with Zachary Atwood navigating a world newly integrated into the multiverse. With a hatchet and sheer luck, Zac confronts an invading force and unravels the secrets of his new reality. The series boasts a complex leveling system and 14 books, with a 15th on the way, ensuring a continuously engaging narrative.

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 introduces a world governed by god-like beings who offer "attunements" to those who survive their dungeon-like spires. Corin Cadence, driven by the loss of his brother, embarks on his journey through the Serpent Spire. The series, reminiscent of Harry Potter in its magic school setting, offers a compelling entry into the LitRPG genre. Andrew Rowe's companion series further enriches the main narrative.

8. 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 in the Forever Kingdom. With no memory but his name, Michael navigates a dungeon of monsters, leveling up and uncovering the world's secrets. The unique assassin-style gameplay and seven books, with two more on preorder, make this series a thrilling addition to the genre.

9. 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 newcomers to LitRPG. Joe, an ex-military medic in a wheelchair, finds a new life in a virtual MMORPG as a Ritualist. The series combines traditional RPG elements with unique twists, expanding into new worlds in later books, making it a continuously 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. Elorian, a high-school gamer, finds himself trapped with others, facing an ancient succubus who drains their power as they level up. With a mix of adventure and unique challenges like vampires and giant lava cats, this series offers a gripping introduction to LitRPG.