In the year 2044, reality is an ugly place. The only time teenage Wade Watts really feels alive is when he's jacked into the virtual utopia known as the OASIS. Wade's devoted his life to studying the puzzles hidden within this world's digital confines—puzzles that are based on their creator's obsession with the pop culture of decades past and that promise massive power and fortune to whoever can unlock them.
But when Wade stumbles upon the first clue, he finds himself beset by players willing to kill to take this ultimate prize. The race is on, and if Wade's going to survive, he'll have to win—and confront the real world he's always been so desperate to escape.
My Opinion: One of my favorite books of all time! I especially love the audiobook version which is read by Wil Wheaton who is also referenced in the story. It honestly never occurred to me to think of the novel as LitRPG until some friends online pointed out it met all the criteria. Levels, skill gain, magic, and rpg mechanics. Just one more reason to love this book.
Likely one of the most popular stories that involves VR. Not only is the story LitRPG but it’s also a great adventure and sci-fi story. Even though the story is set in the future it’s a 1980s and 90s nostalgia fest. If you grew up during those decades you’ll find something that you love. This is seriously a book I re-read every single year. You owe it to yourself to read this book. Also, the novel is being made into a major motion picture directed by Steven Spielberg.
Score: 8 out of 10