Here in no particular order are 5 of the best light novels with game like elements.
“Accel World” by Reki Kawahara
Publication run dates: 2009-present
“-Accel World” is a science fiction light novel set in the not-too-distant future. In this world society is able to enter a virtual reality network called the “Neuro-Linker”, enabling them to access the internet and interact with it through their minds.
Our protagonist, high school student Haruyuki Arita, is a victim of bullying due to his short and overweight stature. However, his life changes drastically when he meets the popular and to his eyes very attractive Kuroyukihime. Kyroyukihime introduces him to a secret program called “Brain Burst.” Brain Burst allows users to accelerate their brainwaves, making time appear to slow down for them.
Kuroyukihime invites Haruyuki to join her in the program, and he becomes involved in a high-stakes game where users fight each other in virtual reality battles. As he delves deeper into the world of Brain Burst, Haruyuki discovers dark secrets and hidden dangers that threaten not only himself but also those around him.
Video Game Elements: The novel features fast-paced battles, leveling up, and customization of avatars. Readers get to explore a descriptive world that touches limitless possibilities of VR and the boundaries it can be pushed to throughout the story.
Fan favorite character: the main heroine Kuroyukihime, is a fan favorite due to her intellect and mysterious background. Her teasing of the protagonist is also quite charming throughout the series.
Volumes: 25
Copies sold: Over 10 million+
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
“Log Horizon” by Mamare Touno
Publication run dates: 2010 – present
“Log Horizon” is a fantasy novel set in a fictional MMORPG called Elder Tale. The story begins when thousands of players suddenly find themselves trapped in the game world, unable to log out (SOA vibes anyone?).
Among these players is our main character Shiroe, a socially awkward young man with the mind of a brilliant strategist. Together with his friends and allies, Shiroe sets out to explore the game world in hope of discovering its secrets and ultimately a way out.
With the whole world of Elder Tale before them, Shiroe and his allies being to explore while grappling with issues of leadership, and politics that naturally come with positions of power.
Video game themes: The novel explores the themes of gaming culture, community-building, and strategy within a virtual world.
Fan favorite character: the female assassin Akatsuki (Naruto fan maybe?), is a fan favorite due to her loyalty, and unique character design.
Volumes: 11 volumes
Copies sold: Over 1+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No
“Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense” by Yuumikan
Publication run dates: 2017 – present
“Bofuri: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense” by Yuumikan: Bofuri is a lighthearted fantasy novel that follows the female protagonist Kaede Honjou, a new player in the MMORPG “New World Online.”
Kaede is a novice gamer who focuses on a defensive build to avoid getting hurt. Her unique playstyle quickly gains the attention of other players, and she becomes known as the “Immortal Maple.” As she progresses through the game, Kaede meets other players and forms a guild, taking on quests and battling monsters.
Video game themes: The novel explores themes of virtual reality and the concept of unconventional strategies within the gaming world.
Fan favorite character: Immortal Maple is a fan favorite due to her overpowered abilities, and unique playstyle.
Volumes: 11 volumes
Copies sold: Over 1+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
DanMachi: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? by Fujino Omori
Publication run dates: 2013 – present
DanMachi: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? by Fujino Omori: DanMachi is a fantasy novel set in a world where gods and goddesses live among mortals. The story follows Bell Cranel, a young adventurer who dreams of becoming the strongest hero in the world.
Bell lives in the city of Orario, which is built around a giant dungeon that is home to powerful monsters and treasures. With the help of his patron goddess, Hestia, Bell sets out to explore the dungeon and improve his skills as an adventurer.
Along the way, he meets a variety of other adventurers and forms bonds with them. However, as Bell delves deeper into the dungeon, he discovers hidden dangers and a dark plot that threatens the entire city.
Video game themes: The novel good old-fashioned dungeon-crawler. If you like the nostalgia of a grindy game, and consistent growth of the main character, you will love this.
Fan favorite character: Bell’s patron goddess Hestia, is a fan favorite due to her fiery personality, and unwavering loyalty to Bell. Hestia often comes in clutch for Bell.
Volumes: 18 volumes
Copies sold: Over 9+ Milion
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: Yes
How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom by Dojyomaru
Publication run dates: 2016 – present
“How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom” is a fantasy novel that follows college student Kazuya Souma, a political science and economics major. Kazuya is summoned to another world to become the king of the Kingdom of Elfrieden by the royal family.
He quickly realizes that the kingdom is in disarray, plagued by corruption and an impending war on the horizon. As a realist, Kazuya decides to take a pragmatic approach to rule the kingdom.
He starts by implementing economic and social reforms to improve the lives of his citizens. He also recruits talented individuals to his side, who in my opinion make this story very engaging. Together with various characters, they work to solve the kingdom’s problems and prepare for war against its enemies.
Video game themes: This novel is pretty much a kingdom builder, think Rome Total War, but in a fantasy setting. The characters are very well crafted and bring the best out of the story and world.
Fan favorite character: Liscia, Kazuya’s fiancée and a member of the royal family is a fan favorite due to her intelligence, and strong will. She is also a big supporter of the main character, giving him strength in times of weakness.
Volumes: 17 volumes
Copies sold: Over 1+ Million
Anime adaptation: Yes
Manga adaptation: Yes
Video game adaptation: No
