As a newcomer to my website, you might be wondering what LitRPG actually is. That’s okay, the vast majority of people have never heard of this genre of storytelling. I am here with you today to explain what it is and why it’s such a booming new genre.
Have you ever imagined stepping into a world where the rules of a game shape the very fabric of reality? Welcome to LitRPG, a captivating genre that seamlessly blends traditional storytelling with the immersive elements of role-playing games (RPGs). Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a literature enthusiast, LitRPG offers a unique and thrilling reading experience that transports you into realms where characters level up, embark on quests, and in some cases navigate virtual landscapes. There are several elements that are common among LitRPG series.
1. Embarking on the Adventure
LitRPG unfolds in a gaming world or system, introducing characters who live and breathe within the confines of game mechanics. The narrative often kicks off with characters undertaking quests or missions, mirroring the dynamic nature of video game adventures. Imagine your favorite fantasy novel, but with a twist – the characters are not just protagonists; they are players in a grand and intricate game.
2. Stats, Levels, and Progression
In the world of LitRPG, characters are not defined solely by their personalities and backstories. Instead, they possess quantifiable attributes like strength, intelligence, and agility. As characters face challenges and overcome obstacles, they earn experience points, level up, and unlock new abilities. It's like witnessing a hero's journey where growth is not just character development but a tangible, numerical progression.
3. Virtual Realms, Alternate Dimensions, and Apocalyptic Nightmares
LitRPG often transports readers to virtual realities, futuristic societies, alternate dimensions, or even our own world as it is inducted into a wider game-like System where the boundaries between the real world and the game world blur. Whether it's a cutting-edge virtual reality headset or a mysterious portal, the setting becomes a playground for both characters and readers, inviting exploration and discovery.
4. Quests that Shape the Narrative
Central to most LitRPG are quests that drive the plot forward. Characters embark on missions that range from epic battles to mundane challenges, each contributing to their growth and the unfolding storyline. Quests add layers of excitement, keeping readers engaged as they anticipate the next twist in the characters' journey.
5. Living by the Game Rules
LitRPG adheres to the rules of the game world, establishing a framework that characters must navigate. These rules govern everything from combat mechanics to magical abilities, creating a sense of consistency and logic within the fantastical setting. It's a genre where the laws of the game shape the characters' destinies.
6. Genre Mashup for Every Taste
One of the remarkable aspects of LitRPG is its ability to transcend genres. Whether it's fantasy, science fiction, or slice-of-life, LitRPG accommodates a diverse range of storytelling. The gaming elements serve as a backdrop, allowing authors to explore various themes and narrative styles, appealing to a broad spectrum of readers.
Conclusion: A Literary Adventure Awaits
In the realm of LitRPG, storytelling and role-playing games converge to create a genre that appeals to both gaming enthusiasts and avid readers. If you're seeking a fresh and exhilarating reading experience, dive into a LitRPG novel and unlock a world where characters are not just imagined; they are leveled up, upgraded, and ready for an adventure of epic proportions. Embrace the fusion of storytelling and gaming.
Now that the core of what LitRPG is has been explained, I will now tell you how it relates to my books. I write in one of the many subgenre’s of LitRPG called Apocalyptic LitRPG or Post Apocalyptic LitRPG (I prefer the former).
In Apocalyptic LitRPG, the setting is typically set during modern day Earth. Some kind of event occurs that triggers the integration of Earth into, usually, a galaxy or universe wide “System” that contains many game-like elements we are familiar with. often times, especially in my series “Paths of Power”, Technology fails to function due to an incompatibility with some element of the System. At the same time as modern technology fails, monsters begin to appear everywhere and go on a worldwide rampage. The human race has to adapt to the loss of their tech, suddenly fighting for their life, all the while trying to figure out this new System that has been forced on them, often with magic suddenly becoming a real and tangible force.
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