Top 10 LitRPG Novels to Explore in 2025

Reading is my ultimate passion. While I enjoy video games and TV, nothing rivals the immersive experience of a captivating book series. My love for reading started with the Harry Potter series and has since grown to include sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and even non-fiction. However, I found my true calling with the LitRPG genre, which quickly became my sole focus. If you’re eager to dive into the thrilling world of LitRPG, here are my top recommendations to get you started.

Our Top Choice

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 accessible through a Kindle Unlimited subscription, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy these expansive series. They’re also available on Audible for those who prefer audiobooks over traditional reading.

What Is LitRPG?

For newcomers, LitRPG stands for literary role-playing game, blending storytelling with RPG elements akin to video games. Some stories feature characters transported into a game world, but the genre is far broader. Every LitRPG novel includes game-like mechanics, such as leveling systems or power hierarchies, which protagonists navigate through skill and experience. This list features a blend of progression fantasy and LitRPG, offering similar yet distinct experiences.

Have you explored a LitRPG series yet?

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1. He Who Fights with Monsters

Our Top Choice

He Who Fights With Monsters

95Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

He Who Fights with Monsters delivers fast-paced action, sharp dialogue, and a distinctive leveling system. Its vibrant characters and fantasy-comedy blend make it a standout for genre fans. This series remains my top LitRPG pick, with each book matching the quality of the first.

The story follows Jason Asano, who awakens in a magical hedge maze, armed with new powers but no hair. His bold, quirky approach helps him navigate cannibals, monsters, and complex relationships. A compelling read with a morally nuanced protagonist, it’s hard not to root for him.

Currently at book 11, with more to come from author Shirtaloon, this series continues to captivate.

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 rich world of magical rifts and powerful immortals, diverging from typical LitRPG tropes. Instead of a new world, it builds a universe around dungeon portals and unique talents.

Matt, an orphan, dreams of battling monsters in rifts that killed his parents. When a weak Tier 1 talent threatens his ambitions, he must rely on grit and determination to rise. The first book hooks you, but the character growth in books two and three cements its place as a favorite.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

Dungeon Crawler Carl

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

Dungeon Crawler Carl is a relentless adventure with a fresh protagonist and his unforgettable cat, Princess Donut. This high-energy series is among the best in LitRPG, blending humor and action seamlessly.

Carl and his ex-girlfriend’s cat are thrust into an underground dungeon hosting an intergalactic game show run by advanced races and a chaotic AI. Packed with witty dialogue, thrilling action, and skill progression, it’s a genre gem.

The seventh book, released in 2024, maintains the series’ gripping quality. Author Matt Dinniman’s other works are also worth exploring.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

Unsouled (Cradle Series)

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

The Cradle series immerses readers in a vivid world with a unique power cultivation system. While not pure LitRPG, Unsouled is perfect for fantasy fans seeking a compelling protagonist and rich storytelling.

Lindon, born “Unsouled,” faces a powerless fate in a village of sacred arts practitioners. Despite his determination, his destiny seems sealed—until divine intervention offers a new path.

With 12 books and a satisfying conclusion, the Cradle series is a must-read. Author Will Wight’s other works are equally impressive.

5. Beware of Chicken

Beware of Chicken

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

Beware of Chicken stands out for its unique approach, trading high-octane action for a serene tale of farming and personal growth, yet still delivering LitRPG charm.

Jin Rou, a martial arts cultivator, dies, and an Earth soul inhabits his body. Rejecting the pursuit of power, he chooses a peaceful life as a farmer. Through this journey, he discovers unexpected friendships, family, and a new kind of strength.

This refreshing series is ideal for readers seeking a calming yet engaging LitRPG experience.

6. Defiance of the Fall

Defiance of the Fall

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

Defiance of the Fall, the longest series here, is a thrilling commitment with non-stop challenges and a dynamic protagonist, making every book a page-turner.

Zachary Atwood faces a multiverse integration, battling invaders with only a hatchet and luck. As he fights to reunite with his family, he unravels the secrets of a complex “System” and its quests.

With 14 books and a 15th forthcoming, the series’ intricate leveling and evolving story keep readers hooked.

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 swaps complex stat systems for a fascinating magic system called “attunements,” earned through perilous spire trials. Its engaging world draws you in.

Corin Cadence, driven by his brother’s loss in the Serpent Spire, faces the trials to earn his attunement. At Lorian Heights Academy, he uncovers mysteries with new allies.

With a magic school vibe reminiscent of Harry Potter, this series is an accessible LitRPG entry. Andrew Rowe’s companion series are also worth exploring.

8. The Grand Game

The Grand Game

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

The Grand Game is a stealth lover’s dream, featuring an assassin-style protagonist who navigates challenges with cunning and subtlety.

Michael awakens in the Forever Kingdom with no memories beyond his name. Among other newcomers, he must survive a monster-filled dungeon, uncovering the secrets of the elite Powers ruling the world.

With seven books out and two more preordered, this series offers a fresh take on LitRPG dynamics.

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 is a great entry point for LitRPG newcomers, blending MMO-style mechanics with unique twists that keep you engaged.

Joe, a former military medic now using a wheelchair, enters a virtual MMORPG for a new life. As a secret Ritualist class, he hones his magic and skills through quests, evolving in unexpected ways.

The series expands into new worlds in later books, delivering a consistently fun read.

10. Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

Level Up or Die (Underworld Series)

23See it at AmazonSee it at Audible

The Underworld series unfolds slowly, immersing readers in a literal underworld where gamers face unique challenges and a menacing succubus.

Elorian, a high-school gamer, is trapped in the underworld with fellow players. Granted infinite leveling potential, they must battle vampires, dragons, and demons while evading a power-draining succubus.

Rich with adventure, this series is an exciting starting point for LitRPG enthusiasts.