Top 10 LitRPG Books to Read in 2025

Reading has always been my favorite pastime. While I also enjoy video games and watching TV, nothing compares to the deep immersion of getting lost in a compelling book series. My journey into reading began with the *Harry Potter* books, which sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling. From there, I explored various genres including sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and non-fiction. However, it wasn’t until I discovered LitRPG that I truly found my niche. Once I started reading within this genre, I was completely hooked—and now it’s the only type of fiction I read. If you're curious about LitRPG and want to explore some top-tier titles, here are my personal favorites that I highly recommend.

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 major advantage of each book listed here is their availability on Kindle Unlimited. For avid readers diving into long series, subscribing can offer significant savings. Additionally, many of these titles are accessible through an Audible subscription, making them perfect for listeners who prefer audiobooks.

What Is LitRPG?

For those unfamiliar with the term, LitRPG stands for "Literary Role-Playing Game." This genre blends traditional storytelling with RPG mechanics commonly seen in video games. In some cases, characters are literally transported into a game-like world, while in others, the narrative incorporates elements like levels, stats, skills, and progression systems. These features help create an immersive experience where characters grow stronger over time through quests, battles, and strategic decision-making.

LitRPG often overlaps with progression fantasy, a subgenre focused on characters steadily gaining power and overcoming increasingly difficult challenges. Whether you're a fan of high fantasy, science fiction, or just enjoy seeing characters evolve, LitRPG offers something for everyone.

Our Top Pick### He Who Fights With Monsters

95Book 1 of 11See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleHe Who Fights with Monsters delivers fast-paced action, sharp humor, and unforgettable moments. With a richly developed leveling system and memorable characters, it’s a standout LitRPG series. It’s my absolute favorite, and each new installment continues to impress.

The story follows Jason Asano as he wakes up inside a mysterious hedge maze in a magical world—bald, confused, but determined. His unique personality and moral dilemmas make him both relatable and entertaining. Battling cannibals, monsters, and navigating personal relationships, Jason proves his resilience and wit throughout the series.

Currently at book 11—with more on the way by author Shirtaloon—this series remains consistently engaging and rewarding.

2. The Path of Ascension

### The Path of Ascension

33Book 1 of 8.See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleUnlike more conventional LitRPG stories, The Path of Ascension doesn't involve a character being pulled into another world. Instead, it explores a universe filled with magical rifts and powerful immortals.

The protagonist, Matt, is an orphan whose parents were killed by monsters emerging from these rifts. Driven by vengeance, he dreams of becoming strong enough to fight back. Unfortunately, his talent is deemed weak, forcing him to rely on perseverance and creativity to rise above his limitations.

While the first book hooks you with its premise, the character growth in books two and three solidifies this series as one of the best in the genre.

3. Dungeon Crawler Carl

### Dungeon Crawler Carl

74Book 1 of 7.See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleDungeon Crawler Carl is a high-energy adventure that never lets up. Its main character breaks away from typical tropes, and the presence of Princess Donut—a lovable cat—adds charm and humor to the story.

Carl finds himself stuck with his ex-girlfriend’s cat when the world collapses. Together, they enter a dangerous underground dungeon run by alien races and a chaotic AI hosting a deadly game show. Packed with action, clever dialogue, and steady character progression, this series keeps LitRPG fans entertained from start to finish.

With book seven released in 2024 and maintaining the same level of quality as the original, author Matt Dinniman has proven his staying power in the genre.

4. Unsouled (Cradle Series)

### Unsouled (Cradle Series)

32Book 1 of 12.See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleLike The Path of Ascension, the Cradle series doesn't involve a portal to another world. Instead, it builds a deeply layered fantasy setting that pulls readers in naturally. With a unique cultivation system and a sympathetic protagonist, Unsouled is ideal for fantasy lovers who may not be full-on LitRPG fans.

Lindon, born “Unsouled,” is believed to have no potential to follow the sacred arts of his village. Despite his intelligence and determination, he is destined to remain powerless—until fate intervenes and gives him a chance to change everything.

Spanning twelve books with a satisfying conclusion, the Cradle series is a masterpiece of character development and world-building. Author Will Wight has crafted multiple other excellent series worth exploring.

5. Beware of Chicken

### Beware of Chicken

30Book 1 of 4.See it at AmazonSee it at AudibleBeware of Chicken offers a refreshing twist compared to the usual action-heavy LitRPG fare. This story centers around a man who chooses farming over the pursuit of power.

Jin Rou begins life as