You asked for light novels with illustrations, you got em. Here are 5 fantastic light novels you should check out today.

“Overlord” by Kugane Maruyama, illustrated by so-bin

(Genre(s): Action, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy)

Publication Date: 2010-present 

“Overlord” by Kugana Maruyama follows a powerful player named Momonga, who becomes stuck in a virtual reality game called Yggdrasil when the game servers shut down. To his surprise, he discovers that the NPCs in the game have gained sentience and formed personalities. With his newfound power and status, Momonga sets out to conquer the world and find out if there are others like him trapped in this virtual reality.

The story blends video game and fantasy elements to make it rather compelling. There is also a focus on world-building, character development, and exploration of themes such as morality and power dynamics.

The illustrations in Overlord are known for their focus on creating a dark and foreboding atmosphere that reflects the tone of the story. The illustrator, so-bin, often uses muted colors and shadowy lighting to create a sense of mystery and intrigue in the illustrations.

Fan-favorite Character: Ainz Ooal Gown (Momonga’s in-game character) is a fan-favorite for his immense power, strategic mind, and unique personality. Despite being an undead overlord, Ainz is shown to have a sense of humor and a soft side for his friends.

Length: 16 Main Volumes + Additional side stories (Ongoing)

Copies Sold: 7+ million worldwide

Anime Adaptation: Yes

Manga Adaptation: Yes

Video Game Adaptation: No

“The Rising of the Shield Hero” by Aneko Yusagi, Illustrated by Minami Seira

(Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy)

Publication Date: 2013-present 

“The Rising of the Shield Hero” follows a college student named Naofumi Iwatani. Together with three other young men, Naofumi is summoned to a parallel universe destined to become famous heroes entrusted with defending the kingdom from monster hordes. Yet soon after being wrongly convicted of a crime and betrayed, Naofumi loses his reputation and the confidence of the populace. 

Naofumi must learn to survive and prosper in this new world utilizing his talents and one-of-a-kind shield as a weapon to grow into a strong and well-liked hero. 

The story is unique for its focus on a hero who is unfairly treated and has to fight against prejudice and discrimination. There is a strong focus on the exploration of themes such as justice, trust, and redemption throughout.  

The illustrations in The Rising of the Shield Hero are known for their detailed character designs and dynamic action scenes. Minami Seira, is particularly skilled at depicting battles and combat scenes.

Fan-favorite Character: Raphtalia, Naofumi’s slave-turned-companion, is a fan-favorite for her development from a timid and abused girl to a brave and loyal warrior. Her relationship with Naofumi is also a major factor in her popularity, as fans enjoy their dynamic and the trust they build between each other.

Length: 22 Main Volumes (Ongoing)

Copies Sold: 3+ million worldwide

Anime Adaptation: Yes

Manga Adaptation: Yes

Video Game Adaptation: No

“Sword Art Online” by Reki Kawahara, Illustrated by abec

(Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy, Action, and Romance)

Publication Date: April 2009 – Present

Sword Art Online is one of the most popular Japanese light novels out there, with a huge fan base worldwide. The story follows Kirito, a skilled gamer trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG that alongside his friends must fight through the game floors to survive and escape. Unfortunately for them, if you die in the game, there is no re-spawning.

If the initial premise doesn’t have you hooked, engaging writing, top-notch character development, and excellent world-building will pull you in for an unforgettable ride.

One of Sword Art Online’s standout features is how it blends the virtual and real worlds seamlessly. The story explores themes of identity, connection, and the consequences of our actions in a virtual world. The characters are well written and likable, with Kirito being a standout protagonist who is both strong and vulnerable.

The illustrations in Sword Art Online are known for their vibrant colors and intricate details. Abec focuses a lot on character designs and action scenes. The illustrator, abec, often uses dynamic angles and lighting to create a sense of movement and depth.

Fan favorite character: Asuna Yuuki. Asuna is a skilled warrior who quickly becomes a key player in the game, and her relationship with Kirito is one of the highlights of the series.

Length: 27 Main Volumes + Additional SPIN-OFFS and short stories (ongoing)

Copies Sold: 25+ million Worldwide

Anime Adaptation: Yes

Manga Adaptation: Yes

Video Game Adaptation: Yes

“No Game No Life” written and illustrated by Yuu Kamiya

(Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, and Comedy)

Publication Date: April 2012- Present

The light novel No Game No Life is another great isekai story that takes place in a wonderful world where everything is decided by games. The story follows siblings Sora and Shiro as they navigate this new world, using their gaming skills to rise to the top. The writing is clever and witty, and the characters are well-developed and likable.

The novel features a unique premise with intricate and unpredictable games that keep the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. The world-building is also well-crafted, with detailed descriptions of the different races, cultures, and laws. The characters, especially Sora and Shiro, are lovable and charismatic. Their jovial interactions and banter add a humorous heart to the story. Overall, “No Game No Life” is a thrilling and captivating read for fans of fantasy and gaming.

The illustrations in No Game No Life are known for their bright colors and playful designs. Yuu Kamiya, often uses a chibi style for the character designs, with exaggerated features and expressions that add to the comedic tone of the story.

Fan favorite character: Shiro. Shiro is the younger half of the sibling duo who are the main protagonists of the series. Shiro is a genius gamer with a photographic memory and an emotionless personality. She is often seen as the brains behind the duo’s gaming strategies and is known for her calm and analytical demeanor.

Length: 12 Main Volumes (ongoing)

Copies Sold: 4.5+ million worldwide

Anime Adaptation: Yes

Manga Adaptation: No

Video Game Adaptation: No

“Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World” by Tappei Nagatsuki, Illustrated by Shinichirou Otsuka.

(Genre(s): Isekai)

Publication Date: January 2015 – Present

The light novel Re:Zero is a darker take on the isekai genre. We follow Natsuki Subaru as he is transported to a fantasy world and forced to relive the same timeline over and over again, oftentimes ending in a gruesome death. As he navigates this new world and tries to uncover the secrets behind his power, Subaru meets a cast of complex and intriguing characters, including a half-elf girl named Emilia who becomes his ally and love interest.

What makes the story so interesting is its unique take on the isekai genre. The plot is not simply about a character being transported to another world and becoming overpowered. Instead, we have a rather ordinary character who must struggle and face consequences for his actions, all the while holding onto his diminishing sanity. The story is not afraid to delve into a dark and tragic territory, creating a sense of tension and urgency throughout. Subaru is a flawed and relatable protagonist, making his journey even more compelling.

The illustrations in Re:Zero are known for their detailed character designs and backgrounds, with a focus on creating a dark and moody atmosphere that reflects the tone of the story.

Fan favorite character: Varies greatly among fans, but some of the most popular characters include Subaru Natsuki, Emilia, Rem, and Ram.

Length: 33 Main Volumes + Additional side stories (Ongoing)

Copies Sold: 7+ million worldwide

Anime Adaptation: Yes

Manga Adaptation: Yes

Video Game Adaptation: No