5 Books to Read Next If You Loved Dungeon Crawler Carl
The Dungeon Crawler Carl series has fully dunked itself in the mainstream this year, and as someone who loves LitRPG books , I couldn't be happier about it. Matt Dinniman's rollercoaster of a story is hard to put down once you start reading, but that does mean you can work through them pretty quickly. If you've already burned through all eight Dungeon Crawler Carl books and are hungry for more, I…
If you have already read all eight Dungeon Crawler Carl books and are seeking more LitRPG stories to indulge in, here are five alternative series that share similar themes and vibes. The first recommendation is He Who Fights With Monsters, another LitRPG series I believe surpasses DCC in terms of pacing and character development.
This fantasy world features a unique leveling system and an off-kilter main character, Jason Asano, who experiences both humor and darker elements throughout his journey. With 12 books published so far, the series includes both eBook, audiobook, and hardcover editions.
Next, Defiance of the Fall offers an apocalyptic twist on the LitRPG genre. Set in a universe where Earth gets integrated into the "System," this series follows Zachary Atwood as he struggles to survive with only a hatchet and pure luck. While lacking the comedy of DCC, Defiance of the Fall boasts 17 books and intergalactic politics that add depth to the story. Fourteen more books are set to follow the main character's adventures.
Robert Blaise's 1% Lifesteal series presents a unique take on the apocalypse genre. In this world, an apocalypse has already occurred, and protagonist Freddy Stern, a cashier with an unfortunate past, acquires new powers and joins the ranks of society he once felt marginalized from. While lacking the same comedic tone as DCC, this series comprises four books with a fifth installment on the horizon.
For those interested in LitRPG without the supernatural elements, Will Wight's Cradle series is a highly recommended read. Although not a traditional LitRPG, this series shares the same level of writing quality and political intrigue as DCC. Set in a world where Lindon, a young "Unsouled," gains abilities to change his fate and save those he loves, the Cradle series follows Lindon's journey to ascend beyond mortality.
A total of 12 books are available in the series, and its completion makes it an excellent choice for LitRPG enthusiasts.
Lastly, Matt Dinniman himself recommends The Wandering Inn, a series that has helped shape the LitRPG genre. Though not as similar in tone to DCC, The Wandering Inn features an exceptional cast of characters and world-building centered around Erin Solstice and her inn. The story follows Erin as she navigates various classes, levels, skills, and political dynamics in a magical world filled with different races.
Though not an action-packed series, the heart of The Wandering Inn lies in the friendships formed along the way. With the first book available in paperback next month and an ongoing web serial, The Wandering Inn is a must-read for LitRPG fans.
Written by urgent.news from IGN's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
