- #1 Little Busters! English Edition
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,211 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 41.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Capturing the hearts of countless fans since 2007, Little Busters! is an emotional visual novel from Key, the minds behind Angel Beats! and CLANNAD. This special English release supports touch controls and dynamic switching between English and Japanese text, and is in HD for the first time on PC.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.9%, Anime 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 14.2%, Romance 9.9%, Story Rich 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by Key, this title shares the same heart-wrenching emotional depth and focus on deep, meaningful friendships.
- #2 Kanon
96% matchVery Positive98% of 476 reviews2024
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 25.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
A tale of small miracles in a snow-covered town— Kanon, the very first game from visual novel studio Key, is now available on Steam! Now featuring HD visuals and full voice support! (The protagonist is only voiced in certain scenes.)
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.3%, Romance 15.2%, Anime 15%, Dating Sim 14.8%, Emotional 5%
Why You'll Like It: Another classic from Key that mirrors the supernatural, winter-themed atmosphere and emotional storytelling found in CLANNAD.
- #3 Summer Pockets
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 4,941 reviews2020
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 10.2 hrsMean: 136.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
From the creators of Angel Beats! and CLANNAD, Key, comes their latest emotional, award-winning journey. Follow protagonist Takahara Hairi as he travels to the secluded island Torishirojima, where he rediscovers what it means to enjoy summer vacation.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.1%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Anime 13.6%, Romance 9.7%, Emotional 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: This Key visual novel captures the same nostalgic, summer-infused emotional journey and character-focused narrative style.
- #4 AIR
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 838 reviews2025
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 52.9 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Summer stretches on endlessly. Beneath the vast blue sky. Beneath the air in which she awaits— AIR, the second game released by visual novel studio Key, is now available on Steam! Now featuring the side story novel, "First Sky Chapter" and full voice support!
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.5%, Anime 15.9%, Romance 15.5%, Dating Sim 15.2%, Emotional 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational Key title that explores themes of family and supernatural connection with the same tear-jerking intensity as CLANNAD.
- #5 Tomoyo After ~It's a Wonderful Life~ English Edition
95% matchVery Positive91% of 750 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 55.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
From renowned visual novel studio Key, this is the sequel to the highly acclaimed visual novel CLANNAD. Featuring a truly memorable continuation to Tomoya and Tomoyo's journey, Tomoyo After promises to draw you even further into CLANNAD's world.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.6%, Anime 21.4%, Romance 13.9%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%, Story Rich 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: This direct spin-off continues the story of one of the most beloved heroines from the original game.
- #6 CLANNAD Side Stories
94% matchVery Positive87% of 411 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 154.1 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Delve further into the world of CLANNAD and experience the stories beyond the original visual novel adventure. Known as CLANNAD Hikari Mimamoru Sakamichi de in Japan, This Steam version features high resolution assets and is translated into English for the very first time.
Why similar: Visual Novel 49%, Anime 15.6%, Great Soundtrack 13.3%, Romance 8.5%, Story Rich 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A collection of short stories that expands upon the world and characters of the original game.
- #7 planetarian HD
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 3,426 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 67.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
planetarian HD is an engaging and emotional visual novel from legendary game studio, Key. A sub-brand of VISUAL ARTS, Key are also famed for creating Kanon, AIR, CLANNAD, Little Busters!, Rewrite, Angel Beats!, and Summer Pockets.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.4%, Anime 28%, Great Soundtrack 9%, Story Rich 6.6%, Emotional 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A short but incredibly poignant story from Key that focuses on a touching, emotional connection between two characters.
- #8 Rewrite+
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 774 reviews2021
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 61.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
In this city built upon the ideal coexistence of civilization and the environment, Tennouji Kotarou spends his days with his friends, Kanbe Kotori and Yoshino Haruhiko. In this peaceful city, a tumultuous event shakes the foundations of Kazamatsuri once a year.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Anime 20.4%, Romance 13.4%, Dating Sim 11.7%, Multiple Endings 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A massive, ambitious visual novel from Key that blends slice-of-life comedy with deep, supernatural mystery.
- #9 ef - the first tale. (All Ages)
91% matchVery Positive95% of 207 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 273.2 hrs≥1hr: 69%
What starts with a conversation between two long lost friends spills out into a captivating visual novel about four youths struggling to pursue their dreams and find their place in the world as love complicates everything.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.1%, Romance 18.7%, Anime 11.9%, Story Rich 8.5%, Emotional 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: This title is renowned for its cinematic presentation and deeply emotional, multi-perspective romance storytelling.
- #10 Harmonia
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 791 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 89.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
From renowned visual novel studio Key, which brought you the highly rated visual novel “planetarian~the reverie of a little planet~”, this is “Harmonia”, the latest kinetic novel in the series.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.9%, Anime 26.8%, Great Soundtrack 18.4%, Story Rich 6%, Casual 2%
Why You'll Like It: A shorter, standalone Key visual novel that focuses on a gentle, emotional story about finding humanity.
- #11 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 8,439 reviews2023
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 66.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A tale told with vivid colors and rich sound in a classic TYPE-MOON visual novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.4%, Anime 19.2%, Great Soundtrack 16.9%, Story Rich 8.1%, Emotional 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features exceptional production values and a character-driven narrative that feels as polished and immersive as the best Key titles.
- #12 STEINS;GATE
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 26,830 reviews2016
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 67.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Developed by 5pb. and Nitroplus, STEINS;GATE was awarded Famitsu magazine's coveted annual Game of Excellence award and was voted one of the most emotionally charged “tear-inducing games” ever made, in a Famitsu poll. It is a gripping and moving Visual Novel, which has already spawned manga and anime adaptations.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.8%, Anime 17%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Story Rich 10.7%, Romance 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: While more sci-fi focused, it shares the same level of narrative complexity and emotional payoff for its cast of characters.
- #13 The Fruit of Grisaia
89% matchVery Positive92% of 1,116 reviews2015
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 123.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
SIX FRUITS BARE THEIR FANGS AT THE WORLD. --The academy was their orchard. In this place of learning, protected by high walls from the outside world, there arrived a single young man who'd lost his purpose in life. He'd lost sight of what he wanted to protect.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.2%, Anime 18.7%, Romance 12.5%, Story Rich 8.1%, Multiple Endings 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: While darker in tone, it shares a similar structure of deep, character-specific routes that explore complex personal traumas.
- #14 ef - the latter tale. (All Ages)
88% matchVery Positive97% of 127 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 10.0 hrsMean: 460.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
In this direct continuation of "ef - the first tale", Yuu tells the tale of a young woman who has lost one of her eyes due to an accident, but who may have lost so much more beneath the surface.
Why similar: Visual Novel 36.5%, Romance 23.6%, Anime 21.2%, Story Rich 14.7%, Adventure 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: The conclusion to the ef series, providing the same level of dramatic intensity and character development.
- #15 eden*
87% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,232 reviews2015
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 60.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A tale of the planet's final love story told using the full force of minori's critically acclaimed illustrative style, engaging musical compositions, and the highly talented staff that has led fans coming back for more every single time!
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.1%, Anime 24.2%, Romance 14.3%, Great Soundtrack 11.4%, Story Rich 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, atmospheric visual novel that focuses on a poignant, singular romance set against a backdrop of a dying world.
- #16 If My Heart Had Wings
86% matchVery Positive92% of 4,629 reviews2014
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 46.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
An animated visual novel of a lovely and bittersweet tale of youth, you play as Aoi Minase in this romantic-comedy as he meets various young girls in his hometown and works together with them to revive their school’s glider-flying “Soaring Club” in order to realize their shared dream of flight.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.8%, Romance 19.8%, Anime 14.4%, Dating Sim 12.2%, Story Rich 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, slice-of-life romance visual novel that focuses on a shared goal and building deep bonds between characters.
- #17 Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 6,564 reviews2019
Dev: spritePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 138.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
In a world where flying through the sky is as simple as riding a bicycle, the sport "Flying Circus" is all the rage. Following the discovery of anti-gravitons, special shoes that allow an individual to fly, Anti-Graviton Shoes, took the world by storm.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.2%, Anime 19.5%, Romance 16.4%, Dating Sim 8.7%, Story Rich 8%
Why You'll Like It: A highly regarded romance visual novel that balances a lighthearted sports setting with genuine emotional stakes.
- #18 Symphonic Rain
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,239 reviews2017
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 33.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The reborn HD edition, Remastered by Siro! Set in Piova, the city of music and endless rain. Guide Chris Vertin on the path to become a master musician in a harmonious fusion of Visual Novel and Music-based gameplay.
Why similar: Visual Novel 21.2%, Romance 15%, Anime 13.5%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Story Rich 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, music-themed visual novel that emphasizes emotional storytelling and multiple branching paths.
- #19 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,845 reviews2024
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 49.7 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Seek the root of the Fate franchise. Return to where it all began.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.5%, Anime 17.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.9%, Romance 9.1%, Story Rich 9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic in the genre that perfectly balances high-stakes supernatural action with deep, character-focused romance routes.
- #20 Muv-Luv
84% matchVery Positive93% of 2,073 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
One of the most highly-acclaimed visual novel series arrives on Steam, newly revamped and officially in English! An interdimensional love story that takes high school romance on a roller-coaster ride through the depths of despair, culminating in a sci-fi grand finale of epic proportions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.6%, Romance 23%, Anime 18.8%, Story Rich 10%, Great Soundtrack 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: Starts as a classic slice-of-life romance before evolving into a deep, emotional, and high-stakes narrative experience.
- #21 Lucy -The Eternity She Wished For-
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 8,245 reviews2016
Dev: Modern Visual Arts Laboratory
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 37.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If there was a robot that could laugh, cry and smile. ...Does it have a soul?
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.8%, Anime 18.7%, Romance 14.7%, Dating Sim 9.9%, Story Rich 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A heartfelt story that explores the emotional complexities of human-android relationships with a focus on character growth.
- #22 ATRI -My Dear Moments-
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 23,248 reviews2020
Dev: FrontwingPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 109.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"As the world sank, I found you." In the near future, a sudden and unexplained sea rise has left much of human civilization underwater. In a little town slowly being enveloped by the ocean, an unforgettable summer is about to begin for a boy and a mysterious robot girl...
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.9%, Romance 15.8%, Anime 13.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Dating Sim 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A touching, short-form visual novel that explores themes of love and connection through a sci-fi lens.
- #23 Hoshizora no Memoria -Wish upon a Shooting Star- HD
83% matchVery Positive93% of 393 reviews2017
Dev: FavoritePub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 22.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A Japanese love adventure game, as you follow the story of Kogasaka You, his hometown and a promise he made.
Why similar: Visual Novel 55.4%, Anime 21.9%, Story Rich 12.4%, Cute 5.6%, Adventure 2%
Why You'll Like It: A classic romance visual novel that captures the same nostalgic, small-town feeling and supernatural romance tropes.
- #24 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,421 reviews2015
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 19.4 hrs≥1hr: 47%
This is a story of disease and suffering; of medication and adverse effects; of thoracotomy scars and cellular poisons; of the living who cannot help but to die and of the dying who cannot help but to live; of a resting place other than "on 7F" or "at home".
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.1%, Anime 23.2%, Great Soundtrack 13.7%, Story Rich 6.4%, Emotional 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply emotional and minimalist visual novel that focuses on the beauty of life and the inevitability of loss.
- #25 Everlasting Summer
81% matchVery Positive94% of 78,050 reviews2014
Dev: Soviet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 59.4 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Visual novel loved by many – Everlasting Summer – now on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.3%, Great Soundtrack 16.8%, Anime 14.2%, Romance 11.3%, Story Rich 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A popular slice-of-life visual novel that captures the feeling of a nostalgic, mysterious summer camp experience.
- #26 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,837 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 14.4 hrsMean: 45.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Umineko When They Cry is the 2nd series of Sound Novel released by 07th Expansion. The steam version features renewed character sprites which is swappable from the classic art.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.9%, Great Soundtrack 33.8%, Story Rich 11.9%, Anime 11.4%, Classic 3.4% ★
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly deep, long-form narrative that rewards the player for investing in its complex character dynamics.
- #27 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,734 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.8%, Anime 21%, Great Soundtrack 11.4%, Story Rich 10.6%, Classic 7.5% ★
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in building a small-town atmosphere that slowly unravels into a deep, character-driven mystery.
- #28 The House in Fata Morgana
79% matchVery Positive95% of 6,643 reviews2016
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 27.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A gothic suspense tale set in a cursed mansion. "The House in Fata Morgana" is a full-length visual novel spanning nearly a millennium that deals in tragedy, human nature, and insanity.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.9%, Romance 17.8%, Great Soundtrack 17.6%, Anime 12.6%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: An incredibly emotional and gothic narrative that, while darker, shares the same focus on deep character history and tragedy.
- #29 9-nine-:Episode 1
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,996 reviews2019
Dev: PALETTEPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 146.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Help Miyako and Kakeru track down a superpowered serial killer before they strike again.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51%, Anime 24.2%, Story Rich 7.2%, Multiple Endings 6.5%, Cute 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A modern romance visual novel that blends supernatural mystery with a strong focus on character chemistry.
- #30 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
77% matchVery Positive88% of 2,029 reviews2022
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 54.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
CHAOS;HEAD NOAH is now available on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 48.8%, Anime 21.1%, Story Rich 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Romance 3.1%
- #31 STEINS;GATE: My Darling's Embrace
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,934 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Fall in love with the lab members all over again in this sweet and slapstick romantic comedy!
Why similar: Visual Novel 49.3%, Anime 20.1%, Romance 12.9%, Dating Sim 10.4%, Story Rich 3.8%
- #32 STEINS;GATE 0
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 8,384 reviews2018
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 127.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If you can't save the one you love… How can you save humanity? Sequel to the visual novel cult classic. Experience an alternate worldline of STEINS;GATE.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.7%, Great Soundtrack 18.8%, Anime 17.7%, Story Rich 12.5%, Multiple Endings 6.9%
- #33 Summer Pockets REFLECTION BLUE
74% matchVery Positive91% of 1,305 reviews2025
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 124.3 hrs≥1hr: 70%
No matter how much times passes... I remember that blue, blue summer. Summer Pockets, the midsummer story brought to you by Key, has been powered-up with even more to play, including new heroines and routes, in Summer Pockets REFLECTION BLUE, now available on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.1%, Anime 14.4%, Multiple Endings 10.4%, Story Rich 10%, Emotional 8.9%
- #34 YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,981 reviews2020
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 133.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story is the visual novel medium in its purest form. Will Shinichi choose Miyuki, the beautiful queen bee of the school, or the endearingly awkward misfit Aoi? With art by Tsuji Santa, these beautifully rendered romances will stay with you forever.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38%, Romance 17.8%, Anime 14.5%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%, Story Rich 6.4%
- #35 Senren＊Banka
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 36,828 reviews2020
Dev: YUZUSOFTPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 16.8 hrsMean: 169.2 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Senren＊Banka is a Japanese-style visual novel produced by Yuzusoft, a Japanese developer of romance VNs. This game commemorated Yuzusoft's 10th anniversary. It won numerous awards on the year of its release in Japan for its art, music, and characters.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.5%, Dating Sim 16.5%, Anime 15.2%, Romance 13.6%, Multiple Endings 5.3%
- #36 Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 32,130 reviews2021
Dev: Team SalvatoPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 83.9 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Welcome to the club! Write poems for your crush and experience the terror of school romance in this critically-acclaimed psychological horror story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.8%, Anime 18.4%, Romance 17.2%, Dating Sim 14.1%, Story Rich 7.1%
- #37 The Song of Saya
75% matchVery Positive89% of 10,117 reviews2019
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 63.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Bear witness to a love that will change the world, in this classic horror romance visual novel from acclaimed writer Urobuchi Gen.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.3%, Romance 15.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.3%, Anime 11.5%, Story Rich 6.6%
- #38 Fate/hollow ataraxia REMASTERED
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,098 reviews2025
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 66.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Relive the four days of destiny...
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.9%, Anime 23.9%, Emotional 9%, Cute 5.9%, Story Rich 5.5%
- #39 CHAOS;CHILD
73% matchVery Positive93% of 4,074 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 80.8 hrs≥1hr: 82%
From the creators of the critically acclaimed STEINS;GATE comes a sensational new visual novel: CHAOS;CHILD. Set in Shibuya in 2015, a group of high school students who survived an earthquake six years ago find themselves at the center of a new series of bizarre murders in the city.
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.6%, Anime 18.4%, Great Soundtrack 16.6%, Story Rich 11.2%, Multiple Endings 6.2%
- #40 WHITE ALBUM: Memories like Falling Snow
71% matchVery Positive93% of 901 reviews2023
Dev: AQUAPLUSPub: DMM GAMES
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 37.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%
The classic visual novel from AQUAPLUS that launched one of Japan's most beloved franchises, WHITE ALBUM is a story of love in many forms. Will a couple cling together, or drift apart on the cold wind? The album of their relationship will be as white as snow, and as poignant.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.6%, Romance 19.6%, Anime 13.9%, Dating Sim 12%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #41 Umineko When They Cry - Answer Arcs
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,562 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 24.7 hrsMean: 54.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
This is the 2nd half of the Umineko When They Cry sound novel series, featuring episodes 5 through 8. This steam version features multi-language options, swap-able renewed character sprites, as well as the original BGMs and un-cut content.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 34%, Visual Novel 33.4%, Anime 11.4%, Story Rich 11.4%, Romance 5.6%
- #42 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,373 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 36.6%, Anime 19.8%, Great Soundtrack 19.3%, Story Rich 10.4%, Classic 6.4% ★
- #43 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,953 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 17.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.1%, Anime 20.8%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, Story Rich 10.1%, Classic 6.2% ★
- #44 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 967 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 20.8 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.1%, Great Soundtrack 22.1%, Anime 20.5%, Story Rich 11.2%, Cute 2.4%
- #45 Tricolour Lovestory
72% matchVery Positive81% of 28,040 reviews2017
Dev: HL-Galgame
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 48.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Time flies and never comes back. But with an incredible 1-million-word script and 100+ original CGs, this game will take you back to when you were young, simple and pure. Go and get the love of your life back, start something new, or end everything in flame, that's for you to decide!
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.2%, Dating Sim 17.8%, Anime 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Romance 8.7%
- #46 Doki Doki Literature Club!
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 226,656 reviews2017
Dev: Team Salvato
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 38.3 hrs≥1hr: 74%
The Literature Club is full of cute girls! Will you write the way into their heart? This game is not suitable for children or those who are easily disturbed.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.4%, Anime 19.6%, Romance 13.5%, Great Soundtrack 12.2%, Dating Sim 12%
- #47 LoveChoice
68% matchVery Positive92% of 36,594 reviews2021
Dev: Akaba Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 74%
"What is love?" We try to answer that with this game. The game encourages people to have a warm, soft, and understanding heart.
Why similar: Romance 23.3%, Visual Novel 18.7%, Great Soundtrack 15.5%, Dating Sim 13.4%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #48 STEINS;GATE RE:BOOT
66% matchVery Positive86% of 623 reviews2026
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 67%
STEINS;GATE returns! Rebooted for the modern era! Featuring fully updated visuals, UI, and an all-new story that breathes new life into the streets of Akihabara.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.6%, Romance 15.4%, Anime 13%, Dating Sim 10.2%, Story Rich 9.1%
- #49 Wonderful Everyday Down the Rabbit-Hole
70% matchVery Positive93% of 2,708 reviews2017
Dev: KeroQPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 175.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Wonderful Everyday is a visual novel with multiple routes which develops a story based on a few concepts: "the sky and the world", "the beginning and the end", "literature and science", "savior and hero", "brother and sister".
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.1%, Anime 16%, Romance 15.1%, Story Rich 12%, Choices Matter 4.4%
- #50 Muv-Luv Alternative
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 3,767 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 9.9 hrsMean: 34.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Playtime's over. Time for despair. Experience the definitive version of a masterpiece in the Muv-Luv trilogy's thrilling conclusion. Note: therapy not included.
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.1%, Anime 19.7%, Romance 17.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.5%, Story Rich 10.2%
- #51 CROSS†CHANNEL: Steam Edition
71% matchVery Positive90% of 469 reviews2018
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 20.3 hrs≥1hr: 51%
"This is the Gunjo Broadcasting Club. Is there anyone left out there?” CROSS†CHANNEL is now available to the whole world for the first time ever. Eight students relive an eternally looping week as tensions rise. Can they mend their broken friendships, or are they too far gone to salvage...?
Why similar: Visual Novel 39.8%, Great Soundtrack 23%, Anime 20.2%, Story Rich 10.2%, Cute 2.6%
- #52 STEINS;GATE: Linear Bounded Phenogram
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,334 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 129.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A story for every lab member. Discover a new side of each STEINS;GATE character and get a glimpse of their inner thoughts through 10 new stories.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.7%, Anime 21.3%, Great Soundtrack 16.3%, Story Rich 12.6%, Adventure 3%
- #53 Kimi ga Nozomu Eien: Enhanced Edition
67% matchVery Positive92% of 106 reviews2024
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
"Kimi ga Nozomu Eien" returns as an Enhanced Edition! This legendary visual novel left fans emotionally wrecked for days after its release, and two decades later, its rollercoaster storyline still captivates hearts. Experience the romance that shook a generation!
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.3%, Romance 25%, Anime 21.1%, Story Rich 9.6%, Choices Matter 6.6%
- #54 G-senjou no Maou - The Devil on G-String
70% matchVery Positive92% of 766 reviews2015
Dev: AKABEiSOFT2Pub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 36.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
You play as Azai Kyousuke, the son of an infamous gangster. Kyousuke knows what he likes and lets nothing stand in his way in getting what he wants. Referred to as God by his classmates, he often enjoys listening to Bach and "working" part time for his stepfather.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.4%, Anime 17%, Romance 11.8%, Great Soundtrack 11.7%, Story Rich 10.7%
- #55 ISLAND
68% matchVery Positive95% of 1,773 reviews2018
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 155.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sanzenkai Setsuna awakens on the shore of isolated island Urashima with no memories of his past. Befriending three local girls, Rinne, Karen, and Sara, Setsuna's quest to discover the secrets of Urashima and how they tie into his own past - and future - begins.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.9%, Anime 19.7%, Romance 11.2%, Story Rich 9.5%, Great Soundtrack 6.9%
- #56 DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation
67% matchVery Positive95% of 3,776 reviews2019
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 142.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Show the Spirits the power of love and save the world in this romantic visual novel!
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.5%, Romance 18.8%, Anime 16.2%, Dating Sim 12.3%, Story Rich 8.4%
- #57 GINKA
65% matchVery Positive91% of 2,827 reviews2023
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 40.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%
"Return to that summer with you..." Ryusei returns to the small island of his younger years, where time flows by gently, to spend a fairy-tale summer vacation with his childhood friend who was spirited away.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.1%, Anime 15.4%, Romance 15.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.6%, Emotional 7.4%
- #58 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.5 Meakashi
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,154 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 21.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.4%, Great Soundtrack 28%, Anime 22%, Story Rich 10.1%, Adventure 1.5%
- #59 ONE.
66% matchVery Positive80% of 388 reviews2023
Dev: novamicusPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 34.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
The pioneering nakige that made a generation cry... Legendary '90s visual novel ONE. is back and better than ever with updated art, animations, and features!
Why similar: Visual Novel 31%, Anime 21.1%, Romance 11.5%, Emotional 9.7%, Choices Matter 7.9%
