In Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman, the world is abruptly transformed into a massive 18-level dungeon controlled by an alien corporation for intergalactic entertainment. Carl, a Coast Guard veteran, and his ex-girlfriend’s cat, Princess Donut, find themselves thrust into this deadly game.

Armed with only their wits and a leather jacket, they must navigate through traps, monsters, and other contestants to survive and uncover the mysteries of the dungeon. Along the way, they encounter allies and enemies, all while being watched by millions of alien spectators.
The novel blends dark humor with high-stakes adventure, exploring themes of survival, loyalty, and the absurdity of the situation. As Carl and Donut progress through the dungeon, they gain new skills, face increasingly dangerous challenges, and uncover the true nature of the game they are part of. With its unique premise and engaging characters, Dungeon Crawler Carl offers a fresh take on the LitRPG genre, combining elements of science fiction, fantasy, and satire¹.