For gaming enthusiasts, the love for video games transcends mere entertainment and becomes an integral part of their daily routine. It’s only natural to extend this passion to reading books that celebrate the world of video games. Here, we’ve curated a list of 20 top-notch video game books across various genres. These titles are categorized into four main groups: fiction, graphic novels, nonfiction about gaming, and art books.
Whether you’re a die-hard gamer or just a casual fan, there’s something on this list that will surprise and delight you.
The beauty of these books lies in their ability to captivate readers from diverse backgrounds. While the industry has made strides towards inclusivity in recent years, many of these titles are still penned by cis men. As you explore this list, you may notice a prevalence of male authors, reflecting the dominance of men in the video game world.
Despite these demographics, the books on this list offer captivating stories and breathtaking visuals that can convert even the most skeptical reader into a gaming enthusiast.
We Are Watching Eliza Bright by A.E. Osworth
A. E. Osworth’s latest tech thriller, We Are Watching ELiza, boldly tackles the pressing issue of gender in the video game industry. The protagonist, Eliza, embodies the dream many gamers have: becoming a skilled coder. However, her reality takes a dark turn when someone from her employer, a prominent gaming company, subjects her to sexual harassment. Seeking justice, Eliza turns to a journalist, only to have her personal information splashed across the internet.
The backlash is swift and merciless, with online trolls joining the chorus of abuse. But as Eliza’s anxiety grows, she becomes increasingly convinced that someone is watching her in real life – stalking her every move.
Firebreak by Nicole Kornher-Stace
In the not-too-distant future, two powerful corporations have cleaved the remaining 45 states from the United States of America, plunging the country into a state of perpetual division. Amidst this turbulent backdrop, Mallory’s world is largely confined to her virtual reality escapades in Stellaxis’s immersive war game, SecOps.
Yet, when she takes on a side gig to investigate a real-life missing person case and uncover connections to one of the game’s characters, Mallory finds herself hurtling into a very real and deadly peril that mirrors the dangers she’s only previously faced within the virtual realm.
Warcross by Marie Lu
In Marie Lu’s Warcross series, the fascination with the game began ten years prior to the first novel’s start. By the time the story begins, Warcross has already become a global phenomenon. As with any massive game, illegal activities inevitably arise. Enter Emika Chen, a teenage hacker and bounty hunter who tracks down players who wager on the game illicitly.
In a bold move, Emika decides to hack into the opening match of the international Warcross Championships, only to accidentally glitch her way into the competition and shoot to fame overnight.
Opening Moves by Cosimo Yap
The inaugural installment of The Gam3 series drops readers into the midst of a captivating virtual reality experience known as the Game. At first blush, the Game appears to be an ordinary online gaming platform. However, this is far from the truth. For protagonist Alan, a college student, the Game represents a thrilling opportunity to immerse himself in a new world.
With unbridled enthusiasm, he jumps headfirst into the virtual realm, only to rapidly discover that the stakes are exponentially more perilous than initially anticipated.
Don’t Hate the Player by Alexis Nedd
In a world where competitive gamers and sports enthusiasts collide, Emilia is a star athlete by day and a dedicated eSports player by night. As one of the few females on her team, she’s learned to compartmentalize her two passions, keeping them strictly separate. However, when a major eSports tournament comes to town, the lines between reality and virtual reality begin to blur.
Emilia feels an overwhelming urge to attend the event, not just to support her team but also to prove herself as a force to be reckoned with in the gaming world. But little does she know, her anonymity is about to be shattered.
Slay by Brittney Morris
In a hidden corner of the internet, a phenomenon has emerged that has captivated hundreds of thousands of Black gamers worldwide – a multiplayer online role-playing card game known as SLAY. The enigmatic nature of the game is rivaled only by its developer, 17-year-old Kiera Johnson, who has successfully kept her identity under wraps.
However, when a teen in Kansas City falls victim to murder over a dispute within the SLAY community, the game’s anonymity begins to unravel, and it finds itself at the center of controversy.
Tournament Trouble by Sylv Chiang and Connie Choi
The inaugural installment of the middle grade series Cross Ups is Tournament Trouble, a thrilling tale that delves into the world of competitive video gaming. At the center of the story is Jaden, a 12-year-old gamer consumed by his desire to excel in the game Cross Ups, which has become an all-consuming passion for him and his friends. However, Jaden’s love for gaming remains a secret, hidden from his mother who harbors concerns that video games contribute to violent behavior.
In Real Life by Cory Doctorow and Jen Wang
Have you ever been captivated by fictional depictions of video games, dreaming that they could become a reality? That’s exactly how I felt while reading about Coarsegold Online, where Anda spends most of her time. This virtual world allows players to reinvent themselves, form connections with people from diverse backgrounds, and forge lasting bonds.
However, the story takes an unexpected turn when Anda befriends a young player who engages in illegal activities by collecting valuable in-game items and selling them to wealthy gamers. At first glance, this behavior appears morally reprehensible, but as you delve deeper into the narrative, you realize that the situation is more complex than initially meets the eye.
Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life by Bryan Lee O’Malley
Imagine Scott Pilgrim’s existence as a level in a video game, complete with formidable bosses to conquer. In this world, his greatest challenges are not pixelated enemies but rather his love interest’s ex-boyfriends. As a comic book series, it’s no surprise that video game enthusiasts will appreciate the nods to classic gaming moments and the way the narrative unfolds like a virtual adventure on paper.
Level Up by Gene Luen Yang and Thien Pham
Dennis Ouyang’s life was a tumultuous mess, weighed down by the unrelenting expectations of his parents and the crushing blow of losing his father. To make matters worse, his college tenure came to an abrupt end. As he navigated this maelstrom, Dennis found solace in video games – an escape that quickly became an all-consuming obsession. Yet, despite the temporary respite it provided, Dennis knew his virtual indulgence was a distraction from the harsh realities of his life.
That’s when four enigmatic angels intervened, guiding him towards a path of redemption and self-discovery. Though he eventually found success in medical school, the allure of video games continued to exert a powerful pull on his mind, leaving him forever torn between the thrill of digital adventure and the demands of his real-world existence.
Ask Iwata: Words of Wisdom from Satoru Iwata, Nintendo’s Legendary CEO by Satoru Iwata, Edited by Hobonichi, Translated by Sam Bett
For gamers and industry enthusiasts alike, this book offers a unique opportunity to delve into the mind of a legendary figure in the world of Nintendo – Satoru Iwata, former Global President and CEO. As a programmer with an impressive track record, he has undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping some of your most beloved games.
This thought-provoking collection of wisdom serves as a valuable resource not only for gamers but also for entrepreneurs and anyone seeking inspiration and motivation to pursue their passions.
Press Reset by Jason Schreier
Jason Schreier’s latest offering is a must-read for any gamer looking to get behind-the-scenes insights into the video game industry. This book, which is the follow-up to his critically acclaimed Blood, Sweat, and Pixels, delves into the rise and fall of some of the decade’s most iconic studios. Each chapter serves as a detailed case study, meticulously examining the story of a different studio from its inception to its eventual demise.
The result is an unparalleled account of the video game industry’s complexities, replete with riveting stories and meticulous research that will leave readers enthralled.
Masters of Doom: How Two Guys Created an Empire and Transformed Pop Culture by David Kushner
The realm of video games has its own iconic duo, reminiscent of the legendary partnership between John Lennon and Paul McCartney. John Carmack and John Romero are the pioneers behind two of gaming’s most enduring franchises: Doom and Quake. Their meteoric rise from humble beginnings to industry giants is a testament to their creative genius and innovative spirit. However, as with any great collaboration, the very success they achieved eventually became the source of their rift.
This is the tale of an unlikely friendship forged in the heat of artistic expression, only to be tested by the trials of ambition, creative differences, and the cutthroat world of gaming.
Good Luck Have Fun: The Rise of eSports by Roland Li
For enthusiasts of competitive gaming, here’s a must-read book that dives into the world of eSports. Written by Roland Li, Good Luck Have Fun offers an in-depth look at the individuals, organizations, and games that have contributed to the phenomenal growth and popularity of eSports. With its unique blend of stories, insights, and analysis, this book provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of what makes eSports the thrilling and dynamic industry it is today.
The Games That Weren’t by Frank Gasking
While we’ve extensively explored the video games that skyrocketed to fame, there’s another side of the story – the ones that never got to be played by anyone. Frank Gasking delves into the fascinating tales behind these cancelled or unreleased games in his project, The Games That Weren’t. This journey uncovers the intriguing stories and enigmas surrounding these games, revealing the multitude of reasons why they never made it to gamers’ hands.
The World of the Witcher by CD Projekt Red
Embark on a thrilling journey through the dark fantasy realm of The Witcher, brought to life in this stunningly illustrated volume. A comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating landscapes, terrifying creatures, and potent weaponry that make this world so captivating. This ultimate resource is an absolute must-have for any gamer enamored with the franchise, offering unparalleled insights and visuals to fuel their passion.
The Art of Super Mario Odyssey by Nintendo
Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017, has captured the hearts of many gamers. A recently published companion book offers a unique glimpse into the creative process behind this beloved game. The book is a treasure trove of concept art, preliminary sketches, and insightful notes from the development team, providing readers with a comprehensive look at the artistry and expertise that went into crafting Super Mario Odyssey’s distinctive world.
By exploring the artwork, marketing strategies, and behind-the-scenes insights, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the game’s enduring appeal.
The Art of the Mass Effect Universe by Casey Hudson
For fans of Mass Effect, this comprehensive companion guide is a must-have. It’s packed with breathtaking concept art and expert analysis from BioWare that delves into the game’s rich lore, exploring its memorable characters, pivotal locations, impressive vehicles, and devastating weapons in stunning detail.
The Legend of Zelda Encyclopedia by Nintendo
Who can resist the allure of Zelda? It’s a timeless favorite that has captured the hearts of many. This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for all things Zelda, spanning from the inaugural Legend of Zelda to Twilight Princess HD. Within its pages, you’ll find an exhaustive database of items and enemies, rare concept art featuring beloved characters, and a detailed expansion of the timeline from the first installment.
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of Zelda, this book has got you covered. Looking for more gaming-related content? We’ve also curated lists of 10 Great Books for Young Gamers, Five Books to Feed Your Video Game Nerdom, and 9 of the Best YA Books About Teen Gamers.