Progression should matter.
R. B. Night writes dark progression fantasy and LitRPG adventure where capability changes more than a number. Characters learn, fail, adapt, and become strong enough to face problems that strength cannot simplify.
The Laws of Becoming follows Levi Jarlsson through an unforgiving world where every useful capability must be demonstrated. I Hate This follows Evan Ward through the recognizable pleasures of a traditional LitRPG—and the escalating social cost of being the person most likely to succeed.
The tones differ. The promise does not: power is earned, choices have consequences, and victory never erases what it cost.