- #1 Little Busters! English Edition
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,122 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 42.1 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 35.2%, Anime 15.2%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Romance 9.8%, Story Rich 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio as CLANNAD, this title shares the same core DNA of deep character bonds and emotional storytelling.
- #2 Summer Pockets
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 4,831 reviews2020
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 10.3 hrsMean: 138.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 34.3%, Great Soundtrack 16%, Anime 13.7%, Romance 9.8%, Emotional 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: This title perfectly captures the nostalgic, emotional summer atmosphere that fans of CLANNAD will find instantly familiar.
- #3 Kanon
96% matchVery Positive98% of 426 reviews2024
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 24.9 hrs≥1hr: 69%
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 33.8%, Romance 15.4%, Anime 15.3%, Dating Sim 15.1%, Emotional 5%
Why You'll Like It: Often considered the spiritual predecessor to CLANNAD, it features the same signature emotional writing and character-focused drama.
- #4 Rewrite+
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 697 reviews2021
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 61.1 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 20.3%, Romance 13.3%, Dating Sim 11.7%, Multiple Endings 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: Another Key masterpiece that blends slice-of-life charm with a grand, supernatural mystery that unfolds over multiple routes.
- #5 AIR
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 659 reviews2025
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 56.3 hrs≥1hr: 64%
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 15.8%, Romance 15.4%, Dating Sim 15.3%, Emotional 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational Key visual novel that explores themes of family and destiny with the same tear-jerking intensity as CLANNAD.
- #6 STEINS;GATE
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 25,836 reviews2016
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 66.9 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 33.7%, Anime 17.1%, Great Soundtrack 16%, Story Rich 10.8%, Romance 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential visual novel that balances lighthearted character interactions with a high-stakes, emotional sci-fi narrative.
- #7 planetarian HD
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 3,297 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 66.3 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 46.5%, Anime 28.1%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Story Rich 6.7%, Emotional 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A short but incredibly poignant story from the creators of CLANNAD that focuses on a singular, heart-wrenching bond.
- #8 The Fruit of Grisaia
92% matchVery Positive92% of 1,103 reviews2015
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 125.9 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 32.3%, Anime 18.7%, Romance 12.6%, Story Rich 8.2%, Multiple Endings 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: While darker in tone, it excels at deep, character-driven narratives that explore trauma and recovery with significant emotional weight.
- #9 The House in Fata Morgana
91% matchVery Positive95% of 6,235 reviews2016
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 27.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 25.8%, Romance 17.8%, Great Soundtrack 17.1%, Anime 12.8%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A gothic masterpiece that, like CLANNAD, uses its medium to deliver a deeply moving and unforgettable story about human connection.
- #10 CLANNAD Side Stories
91% matchVery Positive88% of 404 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 153.8 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 49.1%, Anime 15.6%, Great Soundtrack 13%, Romance 8.5%, Story Rich 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: An essential companion piece that provides further depth to the characters and world of the original game.
- #11 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,490 reviews2024
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 48.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Seek the root of the Fate franchise. Return to where it all began.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.6%, Anime 17.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.6%, Story Rich 9%, Romance 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A legendary visual novel that shares the structure of multiple routes and deep, philosophical character explorations.
- #12 ef - the first tale. (All Ages)
90% matchVery Positive95% of 191 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 279.5 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 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: This visual novel is renowned for its cinematic presentation and intense, drama-heavy romance that rivals CLANNAD's emotional impact.
- #13 Muv-Luv
89% matchVery Positive94% of 1,987 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 21.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 29.7%, Romance 23%, Anime 18.9%, Story Rich 10%, Great Soundtrack 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Starts as a classic high-school romance before evolving into a massive, emotionally devastating epic that rewards long-term investment.
- #14 Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 6,441 reviews2019
Dev: spritePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 136.4 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%, Anime 19.4%, Romance 16.3%, Dating Sim 8.7%, Story Rich 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: An excellent blend of romance and slice-of-life that features strong character development and a compelling central hook.
- #15 eden*
87% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,086 reviews2015
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 59.9 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 24.4%, Romance 14.3%, Great Soundtrack 11.2%, Story Rich 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, melancholic story about the end of the world that focuses on the intimate bond between two characters.
- #16 ATRI -My Dear Moments-
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 22,666 reviews2020
Dev: FrontwingPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 107.8 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 30.8%, Romance 15.9%, Anime 13.9%, Great Soundtrack 8.6%, Dating Sim 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A touching, shorter-form visual novel that explores themes of humanity and companionship through a beautifully written romance.
- #17 Sabbat of the Witch
86% matchVery Positive93% of 2,372 reviews2018
Dev: YUZUSOFTPub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 296.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Hoshina Shuuji has a secret: He has a mysterious power that allows him to perceive the emotions of others. However, he is soon to find out that he is not the only one who has something he doesn't want others to find out about as Ayachi Nene, a classmate, likewise has a secret.
Why similar: Visual Novel 49.9%, Anime 18.3%, Romance 13.4%, Dating Sim 8.2%, Story Rich 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-quality romance visual novel that balances humor and heartfelt moments with a charming supernatural premise.
- #18 Symphonic Rain
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,170 reviews2017
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 32.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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%, Romance 15.1%, Anime 13.5%, Great Soundtrack 10.1%, Story Rich 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A unique musical visual novel that uses its medium to tell a tragic and beautiful story about love and artistic passion.
- #19 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 7,710 reviews2023
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 14.7 hrsMean: 64.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A tale told with vivid colors and rich sound in a classic TYPE-MOON visual novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.6%, Anime 19.3%, Great Soundtrack 16.5%, Story Rich 8.2%, Emotional 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A visually stunning visual novel that focuses on character dynamics and a slow-burn narrative with high production values.
- #20 Lucy -The Eternity She Wished For-
84% matchVery Positive95% of 8,195 reviews2016
Dev: Modern Visual Arts Laboratory
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 37.6 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 deeply emotional story that asks profound questions about love and humanity through the lens of a robot companion.
- #21 STEINS;GATE 0
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 8,091 reviews2018
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 125.7 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 18.4%, Anime 17.9%, Story Rich 12.6%, Multiple Endings 7%
Why You'll Like It: A direct, emotionally heavy follow-up that explores the consequences of the original story with even greater narrative depth.
- #22 If My Heart Had Wings
83% matchVery Positive92% of 4,617 reviews2014
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 46.1 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 and emotional story about youth and ambition that captures the same 'coming-of-age' feel as CLANNAD.
- #23 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,381 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.7 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 44.1%, Anime 21.2%, Great Soundtrack 11.1%, Story Rich 10.7%, Classic 7.2% ★
Why You'll Like It: While darker, it shares the 'small town' mystery and deep character focus that makes Key visual novels so engaging.
- #24 YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,620 reviews2020
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 131.3 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 38.3%, Romance 17.8%, Anime 14.6%, Great Soundtrack 6.8%, Story Rich 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-narrative romance that subverts expectations while maintaining a core focus on the emotional stakes of its characters.
- #25 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,708 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.3 hrsMean: 42.9 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 34.2%, Great Soundtrack 33.6%, Story Rich 12%, Anime 11.6%, Classic 3.2% ★
Why You'll Like It: A massive, complex narrative that rewards players who invest time in understanding its intricate character relationships and world-building.
- #26 Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 30,999 reviews2021
Dev: Team SalvatoPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 81.7 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 30.5%, Anime 18.4%, Romance 17.2%, Dating Sim 14.1%, Story Rich 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological subversion of the dating sim genre that uses its structure to deliver a surprisingly impactful narrative.
- #27 ISLAND
81% matchVery Positive95% of 1,753 reviews2018
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 154.1 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 19.8%, Romance 11.2%, Story Rich 9.5%, Great Soundtrack 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex sci-fi mystery that features a strong romance core and multiple endings that reward careful exploration.
- #28 The Song of Saya
79% matchVery Positive90% of 9,431 reviews2019
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 59.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 41.5%, Romance 15.7%, Great Soundtrack 12.3%, Anime 11.4%, Story Rich 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, psychological exploration of love and perception that serves as a stark, mature contrast to the tone of CLANNAD.
- #29 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
77% matchVery Positive88% of 1,810 reviews2022
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 52.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
CHAOS;HEAD NOAH is now available on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 48.2%, Anime 21.5%, Story Rich 13.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Romance 3%
- #30 STEINS;GATE: My Darling's Embrace
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,820 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fall in love with the lab members all over again in this sweet and slapstick romantic comedy!
Why similar: Visual Novel 50.7%, Anime 19.8%, Romance 12.4%, Dating Sim 9.9%, Story Rich 3.7%
- #31 Senren＊Banka
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 35,845 reviews2020
Dev: YUZUSOFTPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 16.8 hrsMean: 164.4 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 32.7%, Dating Sim 16.5%, Anime 15.1%, Romance 13.3%, Multiple Endings 5.4%
- #32 Tomoyo After ~It's a Wonderful Life~ English Edition
78% matchVery Positive91% of 721 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 56.3 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 47.8%, Anime 21.6%, Romance 14%, Great Soundtrack 8.1%, Story Rich 5.5%
- #33 Summer Pockets REFLECTION BLUE
73% matchVery Positive89% of 1,069 reviews2025
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 125.1 hrs≥1hr: 64%
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%, Anime 14.3%, Multiple Endings 10.5%, Story Rich 10%, Emotional 8.8%
- #34 WORLD END ECONOMiCA episode.01
78% matchVery Positive84% of 726 reviews2014
Dev: Spicy TailsPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
From the author of Spice and Wolf, Isuna Hasekura, comes WORLD END ECONOMiCA. This is the first episode out of three part sci-fi/economic thriller visual novel set on the moon.
Why similar: Visual Novel 69.5%, Anime 27.7%, Story Rich 2.5%, Singleplayer 0.4%
Why You'll Like It: Written by the author of Spice & Wolf, this story offers a compelling look at human ambition and growth in a unique setting.
- #35 Everlasting Summer
75% matchVery Positive94% of 77,532 reviews2014
Dev: Soviet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 58.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Visual novel loved by many – Everlasting Summer – now on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.4%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Anime 14.3%, Romance 11.4%, Story Rich 8.9%
- #36 Harmonia
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 783 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 90.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 45.1%, Anime 27%, Great Soundtrack 17.9%, Story Rich 6.1%, Casual 2%
- #37 Doki Doki Literature Club!
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 221,125 reviews2017
Dev: Team Salvato
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 38.4 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 29.5%, Anime 19.7%, Romance 13.5%, Dating Sim 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 11.9%
- #38 Fate/hollow ataraxia REMASTERED
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 980 reviews2025
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 62.1 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Relive the four days of destiny...
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.9%, Anime 23.9%, Emotional 9%, Cute 5.9%, Story Rich 5.4%
- #39 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,830 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%, Anime 20.9%, Great Soundtrack 13.8%, Story Rich 10.2%, Classic 6.2% ★
- #40 Umineko When They Cry - Answer Arcs
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,497 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 17.1 hrsMean: 50.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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: Visual Novel 33.7%, Great Soundtrack 33.4%, Anime 11.6%, Story Rich 11.5%, Romance 5.6%
- #41 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 899 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 20.9 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 38.3%, Great Soundtrack 21.6%, Anime 20.7%, Story Rich 11.3%, Cute 2.4%
- #42 CHAOS;CHILD
72% matchVery Positive93% of 3,899 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 81.0 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 18.9%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Story Rich 11.1%, Multiple Endings 6.2%
- #43 WHITE ALBUM: Memories like Falling Snow
70% matchVery Positive94% of 872 reviews2023
Dev: AQUAPLUSPub: DMM GAMES
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 36.8 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 25.5%, Romance 19.6%, Anime 13.8%, Dating Sim 12%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #44 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,271 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 21.9 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 36.8%, Anime 20.1%, Great Soundtrack 19%, Story Rich 10.6%, Classic 6% ★
- #45 LoveChoice
69% matchVery Positive92% of 36,143 reviews2021
Dev: Akaba Studio
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 5.5 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 23.4%, Visual Novel 18.7%, Great Soundtrack 15%, Dating Sim 13.4%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #46 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,284 reviews2015
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 19.5 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 53.2%, Anime 23.3%, Great Soundtrack 13.4%, Story Rich 6.4%, Emotional 2.6%
- #47 STEINS;GATE: Linear Bounded Phenogram
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,255 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 128.9 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 45.1%, Anime 21.7%, Great Soundtrack 16.1%, Story Rich 12.9%, Adventure 3%
- #48 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.5 Meakashi
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,058 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 36%, Great Soundtrack 26.9%, Anime 22.4%, Story Rich 10.2%, Adventure 1.5%
- #49 Tricolour Lovestory
71% matchVery Positive81% of 28,032 reviews2017
Dev: HL-Galgame
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 48.5 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 41.3%, Dating Sim 18%, Anime 15.2%, Great Soundtrack 10%, Romance 8.8%
- #50 STEINS;GATE ELITE
70% matchVery Positive90% of 1,651 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 273.2 hrs≥1hr: 66%
STEINS;GATE ELITE follows a rag-tag band of tech-savvy young students who discover the means of changing the past via e-mail using a modified microwave.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.9%, Anime 22.2%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Story Rich 9.2%, Romance 7.3%
- #51 DATE A LIVE: Rio Reincarnation
68% matchVery Positive95% of 3,738 reviews2019
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 139.6 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Show the Spirits the power of love and save the world in this romantic visual novel!
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.3%, Anime 25.3%, Romance 18.1%, Dating Sim 16.1%, Story Rich 5.5%
- #52 Muv-Luv Alternative
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 3,645 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 10.0 hrsMean: 34.3 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 35.3%, Anime 19.8%, Romance 17.7%, Story Rich 10.3%, Great Soundtrack 10.2%
- #53 GINKA
66% matchVery Positive91% of 2,788 reviews2023
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 41.3 hrs≥1hr: 92%
"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 15.5%, Romance 15.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%, Emotional 7.4%
- #54 Kimochii Classroom
65% matchVery Positive88% of 164 reviews2025
Dev: Radish ASMR
Windows · Mac · Linux
Welcome to Kimochii Classroom! A slice-of-life visual novel with stunning visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and an immersive story. Who will you meet first?
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.6%, Anime 15.4%, Dating Sim 12.1%, Romance 10.1%, Choices Matter 7.5%
- #55 Kimi ga Nozomu Eien: Enhanced Edition
66% matchVery Positive90% of 88 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 34.2%, Romance 25%, Anime 21.1%, Story Rich 9.6%, Choices Matter 6.8%
- #56 Hatsuyuki Sakura
64% matchVery Positive94% of 912 reviews2024
Dev: SAGA PLANETSPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 50.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
"Hatsuyuki Sakura" is one of the most popular works by SAGA PLANETS, a popular Japanese developer for visual novels. Experience Hatsuyuki Sakura for the first time in 1080p! This version includes the English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese versions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.5%, Anime 16.4%, Dating Sim 14.2%, Romance 12.5%, Emotional 5.7%
- #57 CROSS†CHANNEL: Steam Edition
69% matchVery Positive90% of 438 reviews2018
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 20.4 hrs≥1hr: 52%
"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 40%, Great Soundtrack 22.6%, Anime 20.3%, Story Rich 10.3%, Cute 2.6%
- #58 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.6 Tsumihoroboshi
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 908 reviews2018
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 39.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 47.8%, Anime 25.4%, Story Rich 12.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.6%, Adventure 1.6%
- #59 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.8 Matsuribayashi
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 795 reviews2020
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.3 hrsMean: 75.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 47.8%, Great Soundtrack 20.5%, Anime 16.2%, Story Rich 9.6%, Adventure 2.3%
