- #1 ATRI -My Dear Moments-
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 22,459 reviews2020
Dev: FrontwingPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 106.2 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 36.6%, Anime 20.9%, Romance 14.1%, Story Rich 7%, Great Soundtrack 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: It features a similar premise of a young man forming a deep, life-changing bond with an android in a world facing environmental collapse.
- #2 Harmonia
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 777 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 89.6 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 43.9%, Anime 32.9%, Great Soundtrack 11.5%, Adventure 5.2%, Story Rich 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: As a kinetic visual novel from Key, it mirrors the emotional depth and high-quality presentation found in eden*.
- #3 Lucy -The Eternity She Wished For-
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 8,175 reviews2016
Dev: Modern Visual Arts Laboratory
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 38.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If there was a robot that could laugh, cry and smile. ...Does it have a soul?
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.8%, Anime 26.7%, Romance 12.4%, Story Rich 6.5%, Great Soundtrack 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a deeply moving exploration of the relationship between a human and an android, focusing on the philosophical and emotional implications of their bond.
- #4 Summer Pockets
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 4,789 reviews2020
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 10.3 hrsMean: 137.8 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 40.7%, Anime 20.4%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Romance 8.7%, Story Rich 6%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential emotional visual novel that captures the feeling of a fleeting, meaningful summer romance.
- #5 ef - the first tale. (All Ages)
94% matchVery Positive96% of 189 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 286.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 34.5%, Anime 20.6%, Romance 19.3%, Story Rich 8.9%, Cute 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: It is renowned for its experimental visual presentation and deeply emotional, multi-layered romantic storytelling.
- #6 CLANNAD
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 10,460 reviews2015
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 105.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
From the world renowned visual novel studio Key, the highly rated story of CLANNAD is now available on Steam! Improved visuals, achievement integration, and Dangopedia make this the best version of CLANNAD to date.
Why similar: Visual Novel 36.3%, Anime 23.8%, Romance 14.1%, Great Soundtrack 10.8%, Story Rich 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the gold standard for emotional storytelling in the medium, it shares the same focus on character growth and poignant life moments.
- #7 ef - the latter tale. (All Ages)
92% matchVery Positive97% of 123 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
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 33.4%, Anime 25.5%, Romance 16.9%, Story Rich 10.7%, Adventure 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: This conclusion to the ef series provides the same high-stakes emotional payoff and artistic polish as the first part.
- #8 Little Busters! English Edition
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,092 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 42.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 41.9%, Anime 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 10.8%, Romance 8.7%, Story Rich 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: It excels at building a tight-knit group of characters whose bonds are tested by emotional challenges and personal growth.
- #9 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,225 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 53.9%, Anime 29.6%, Great Soundtrack 8.9%, Story Rich 4.9%, Drama 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic kinetic visual novel that focuses on a somber, beautiful journey, perfectly capturing the same melancholic tone as eden*.
- #10 Muv-Luv
90% matchVery Positive94% of 1,935 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 20.9 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%, Anime 23.8%, Romance 17.2%, Story Rich 7.6%, Cute 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: An epic sci-fi story that transitions from a lighthearted romance into a massive, emotionally devastating narrative experience.
- #11 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
87% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 7,330 reviews2023
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 14.0 hrsMean: 62.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A tale told with vivid colors and rich sound in a classic TYPE-MOON visual novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.3%, Anime 24.5%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Story Rich 6.3%, Adventure 3%
Why You'll Like It: This title is a masterclass in visual novel presentation, offering stunning 2D animation and a cinematic storytelling experience.
- #12 The Fruit of Grisaia
89% matchVery Positive93% of 1,095 reviews2015
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 127.7 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 36.1%, Anime 26.2%, Romance 10.6%, Story Rich 6.9%, Nudity 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: This title provides a high-production value experience with deep character writing and a mix of humor and heavy emotional drama.
- #13 ISLAND
89% matchVery Positive95% of 1,748 reviews2018
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 154.6 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 34.6%, Anime 27%, Romance 9.1%, Story Rich 7.8%, Great Soundtrack 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi mystery that blends a beautiful art style with a complex, emotionally resonant narrative about time and destiny.
- #14 Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 6,383 reviews2019
Dev: spritePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.1 hrsMean: 136.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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 42.1%, Anime 26.7%, Romance 13.4%, Story Rich 6.6%, Great Soundtrack 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: It features high-quality production values and a heartfelt romance that develops alongside a unique competitive sport.
- #15 The Eden of Grisaia
88% matchVery Positive93% of 117 reviews2017
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 9.4 hrsMean: 295.8 hrs≥1hr: 72%
The final chapter in the Grisaia series, featuring The Seed of Blanc Aile, the overarching story's grand conclusion and Prologue De La Grisaia, a prologue set before Yuuji's arrival at Mihama.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.9%, Anime 24%, Romance 14%, Story Rich 8.4%, Cute 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: As the conclusion to the Grisaia trilogy, it offers a satisfying and emotionally charged resolution to the characters' arcs.
- #16 If My Heart Had Wings
86% matchVery Positive92% of 4,609 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 29.3%, Anime 22.2%, Romance 18.1%, Story Rich 8.1%, Cute 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A heartwarming romance that centers on a group of students working together to achieve a shared dream of flight.
- #17 fault - milestone one
85% matchVery Positive92% of 3,231 reviews2014
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 29.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
fault is a series of Science Fantasy Cinematic Novels using a unique 3D Camera system for a visually immersive reading experience. Follow Selphine, the bubbly Princess and her sharp-witted Royal Guardian, Ritona, on their journey of a lifetime back to their homeland of Rughzenhaide.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.3%, Anime 34.6%, Great Soundtrack 8.5%, Story Rich 5.4%, Adventure 1.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fantasy-themed visual novel that focuses on the emotional journey of its protagonists through a beautifully realized world.
- #18 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,307 reviews2024
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 47.6 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Seek the root of the Fate franchise. Return to where it all began.
Why similar: Visual Novel 39.6%, Anime 25.4%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Story Rich 8.1%, Romance 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: An iconic title that defines the genre with its deep lore, high production values, and intense character-driven conflicts.
- #19 fault - milestone two side:above
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,564 reviews2015
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 33.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
fault - milestone two side:above is a Cinematic Visual Novel that takes place right after the events of milestone one. Please note that this novel is a direct sequel to fault - milestone one and contains massive spoilers of the first story. Play through of the first title is highly advised.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.1%, Anime 31.2%, Great Soundtrack 9.9%, Story Rich 9.2%, Female Protagonist 1.4%
Why You'll Like It: It continues the high-quality narrative and emotional stakes of the first entry with even more refined visual presentation.
- #20 YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,464 reviews2020
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 128.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 42.1%, Anime 20.3%, Romance 14.3%, Story Rich 5.3%, Great Soundtrack 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-narrative romance that subverts player expectations to deliver a uniquely haunting and emotional experience.
- #21 Tricolour Lovestory
84% matchVery Positive81% of 28,032 reviews2017
Dev: HL-GalgamePub: SakuraGame
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 48.3 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 43.7%, Anime 20.1%, Great Soundtrack 7%, Romance 6.9%, Nudity 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A visually striking romance that explores the complexities of love and artistic expression through a beautiful, painterly art style.
- #22 Tomoyo After ~It's a Wonderful Life~ English Edition
82% matchVery Positive91% of 705 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 56.8 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 45.2%, Anime 25.6%, Romance 9.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.1%, Nudity 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: This title serves as an intimate, emotional epilogue that focuses on the depth of a singular, committed relationship.
- #23 STEINS;GATE: My Darling's Embrace
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,772 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fall in love with the lab members all over again in this sweet and slapstick romantic comedy!
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.6%, Anime 25.7%, Romance 9.6%, Adventure 4.6%, Story Rich 2.9%
Why You'll Like It: A character-focused spin-off that allows for more intimate, romantic interactions with the cast of a classic sci-fi story.
- #24 Go! Go! Nippon! ~My First Trip to Japan~
81% matchVery Positive86% of 3,128 reviews2014
Dev: OVERDRIVEPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The week you spend in Japan will certainly be memorable!!! Get a taste of the foreign travel offered by printed guidebooks. Enjoy a tour around Japan from the comfort of your own home!
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.7%, Anime 44.7%, Romance 3.2%, Cute 2.2%, Nudity 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: A lighter, travel-focused visual novel that provides a relaxing and charming romantic experience.
- #25 Symphonic Rain
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,136 reviews2017
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 33.1 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 32%, Anime 25.8%, Romance 17%, Story Rich 9.4%, Cute 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: This unique title combines music-based gameplay with a deeply moving, melancholic story about love and artistic passion.
- #26 Fox Hime Zero
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,917 reviews2018
Dev: AsicxArtPub: SakuraGame
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 44.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Yan, a student of natural history, encounters a cute and mysterious girl with fox ears while conducting routine scientific research at a remote observation cabin. This might be a "blessing" for the intrepid in the golden age of geographical discovery...
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.5%, Anime 32.8%, Romance 11.2%, Cute 5.3%, Great Soundtrack 2.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, sweet, and emotionally resonant story that focuses on the bond between the protagonist and a mystical companion.
- #27 9-nine-:Episode 1
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,894 reviews2019
Dev: PALETTEPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 145.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Help Miyako and Kakeru track down a superpowered serial killer before they strike again.
Why similar: Visual Novel 48.2%, Anime 28.8%, Nudity 7%, Sexual Content 5.5%, Cute 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a modern, high-production aesthetic paired with an engaging supernatural mystery and strong character chemistry.
- #28 KANADE
76% matchVery Positive84% of 343 reviews2025
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
A visual novel about becoming lovers with Kanade—a half-human, half-alien girl. Enjoy a tender relationship with Kanade and witness how love blossoms into a song that saves the world.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.7%, Anime 31.2%, Cute 6.8%, Adventure 4.7%, Story Rich 3.8%
- #29 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
79% matchVery Positive90% of 592 reviews2016
Dev: YetiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Rescue squad captain Watase Kasasagi wakes up without his memories in the middle of his most critical mission yet-- a nuclear meltdown at a research facility. In an unfamiliar place and without his years of training, he must rescue the survivors and escape...
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.2%, Anime 28%, Story Rich 9.4%, Great Soundtrack 5.3%, Adventure 3%
Why You'll Like It: A complex sci-fi thriller that forces the player to make high-stakes decisions that significantly impact the emotional outcome of the story.
- #30 planetarian HD
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 3,260 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 65.2 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 44.1%, Anime 33.8%, Great Soundtrack 5.2%, Story Rich 4.7%, Cute 2.9%
- #31 Dream Ending
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 3,196 reviews2019
Dev: #workshopPub: NVLMaker
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 32.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
This is a small tale from the end. The leftovers of mankind are destined to perish as the Arks break orbit. Suddenly, however, she's making me ask her out, an invitation to face the apocalypse together... a short but exquisite visual novel, "Dream Ending" is humanity's last love story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.1%, Anime 25.8%, Romance 20.7%, Adventure 7.6%, Sexual Content 3.8%
- #32 A Kiss For The Petals - Remembering How We Met
77% matchVery Positive93% of 1,710 reviews2015
Dev: St. Michael's Girls SchoolPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 39.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A brand new entry in the landmark yuri game series, "A Kiss For The Petals!" The story of how fan-favorite couple Risa and Miya first met is now available on the PC!
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.3%, Anime 29.2%, Romance 18.1%, Cute 5.1%, Sexual Content 2.1%
- #33 Stella of The End
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 2,926 reviews2023
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 25.7 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Jude Gray, a wandering Courier, receives a request to deliver some very special cargo. This cargo turns out to be Philia, an android girl who is unaffected by the enigmatic Singularity Machines.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.8%, Anime 29.8%, Story Rich 6.5%, Cute 5.4%, Adventure 4.4%
- #34 KARAKARA
75% matchVery Positive91% of 1,838 reviews2016
Dev: calmePub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 54.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
KARAKARA. It is the sound of aridity. It is the sound of dry asphalt and sandy winds. It is the sound of relentless sunshine, as well as the sound of a withering race.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.2%, Anime 34.9%, Nudity 6.6%, Cute 6.5%, Sexual Content 5.9%
- #35 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,215 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.9 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 47.4%, Anime 28.6%, Story Rich 8.8%, Great Soundtrack 7.8%, Cute 2.9%
- #36 Kimi ga Nozomu Eien: Enhanced Edition
73% matchVery Positive89% of 84 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 36%, Anime 27.8%, Romance 19.5%, Story Rich 7.6%, Drama 3.4%
- #37 Blood Code
76% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,024 reviews2015
Dev: ZiX Solutions
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 24.2 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A story about an ordinary human girl and her romantic encounters with knights and princes. These characters may be gentle, passionate, considerate, or inhospitable. There are many character styles to suit a variety of individual player tastes.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.9%, Romance 23%, Anime 13.7%, Cute 7%, Story Rich 5.9%
- #38 Senren＊Banka
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 35,519 reviews2020
Dev: YUZUSOFTPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 16.8 hrsMean: 160.8 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 42.2%, Anime 24.6%, Romance 12.8%, Story Rich 4.8%, Cute 4.7%
- #39 The Witch's Love Diary
74% matchVery Positive94% of 112 reviews2019
Dev: QoobrandPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 136.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Spring is here and love awaits, an oasis just over the horizon, a beautiful story waiting to be told. Join Takumi and Alice in a tale of fleeting cherry blossoms and forgotten first love.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.6%, Anime 28%, Great Soundtrack 15%, Romance 7.4%, Story Rich 5%
- #40 Everlasting Summer
71% matchVery Positive95% of 77,204 reviews2014
Dev: Soviet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 57.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Visual novel loved by many – Everlasting Summer – now on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 36.9%, Anime 22.5%, Great Soundtrack 13.6%, Romance 10.6%, Story Rich 8.5%
- #41 Sunrider Academy
73% matchVery Positive83% of 1,140 reviews2015
Dev: Love in SpacePub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%
You are Kayto Shields, an ordinary man thrown into an extraordinary adventure. Control Kayto's day to day life as well as his responsibilities as club manager in this stat management sim.
Why similar: Anime 36.8%, Visual Novel 32.3%, Nudity 9.9%, Romance 8.5%, Sexual Content 3.9%
- #42 9-nine-:NewEpisode
70% matchVery Positive94% of 713 reviews2022
Dev: PALETTEPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 184.7 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Enjoy short after stories for the heroines of the 9-nine- series in 9-nine-:NewEpisode!
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.7%, Anime 26%, Romance 12.1%, Cute 5.1%, Story Rich 4.3%
- #43 Song of Memories (Complete Scenario)
75% matchMixed59% of 115 reviews2018
Dev: Future Tech Lab Co.,Ltd.
Windows
A next generation romantic adventure game with a story focused on songs and ultimate decision-making. In addition to a massive scenario that takes place in an academy, this game features over 40 hours worth of voices played by an all-star cast of voice actors.
Why similar: Anime 27.7%, Visual Novel 27.5%, Romance 9.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.9%, Sexual Content 5.7%
- #44 STEINS;GATE 0
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 7,939 reviews2018
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 124.0 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 39.5%, Anime 25.7%, Great Soundtrack 13.9%, Story Rich 10.9%, Romance 3.9%
- #45 STEINS;GATE
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 25,378 reviews2016
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 66.2 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 40.3%, Anime 25.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Story Rich 9.8%, Romance 6.6%
- #46 Aokana - Four Rhythms Across the Blue - EXTRA2
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 2,017 reviews2022
Dev: spritePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 94.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Aokana - EXTRA2 is the official Misaki after story for Aokana.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.1%, Anime 22.8%, Romance 18%, Story Rich 9.3%, Cute 6.2%
- #47 Analogue: A Hate Story
71% matchVery Positive93% of 2,291 reviews2012
Dev: Love Conquers All Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 57%
A dark visual mystery novel featuring transhumanism, traditional marriage, loneliness, and cosplay. Two pursuable characters. Five endings. Welcome to the future.
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.2%, Anime 23.7%, Story Rich 4.6%, Great Soundtrack 4%, Sci-fi 2.7%
- #48 Narcissu 10th Anniversary Anthology Project
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 737 reviews2016
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
"Life is like a waiting room, except people don't leave in the order they enter." Narcissu is a thought provoking visual novel series about terminal illness, living, dying, and the relationship between those leaving and those left behind. There are no miracles, no heroes, no villains in this story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 55.2%, Anime 23%, Story Rich 9.8%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%, Emotional 1.4%
- #49 Just Deserts
72% matchMostly Positive72% of 348 reviews2016
Dev: Vifth FloorPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Just Deserts is a sci-fi action dating sim where you play as a soldier who must protect a city from mysterious alien attack, while at the same time you will also be seeking to capture the heart of your dream girl(s)! Theme song by Vesuvia [Ecky], vocal track by iMochi
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.5%, Anime 26%, Romance 16.9%, Story Rich 7.4%, Cute 5.4%
- #50 Hatsuyuki Sakura
65% matchVery Positive95% of 878 reviews2024
Dev: SAGA PLANETSPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 13.1 hrsMean: 42.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
"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 39.6%, Anime 24.2%, Romance 11%, Adventure 5.7%, Story Rich 5.1%
- #51 Amnesia™: Memories
69% matchVery Positive92% of 4,125 reviews2015
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
You awaken to find your memories gone. To learn the truth behind your amnesia, you’ll choose from five romantic paths, each its own world. With 20+ endings, can you write the lasting love story you deserve, or will your love and life come to an end?
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.2%, Anime 23.6%, Romance 19.6%, Story Rich 3.5%, Dating Sim 2.7%
- #52 The Song of Saya
67% matchVery Positive90% of 9,092 reviews2019
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 56.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 44.3%, Anime 15.4%, Romance 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, Story Rich 5.6%
- #53 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,766 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.3 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 46.3%, Anime 28.3%, Great Soundtrack 9.8%, Story Rich 8.3%, Cute 2.8%
- #54 Yumeutsutsu Re:After
68% matchVery Positive88% of 104 reviews2020
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 18.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%
What happens "After?" Five stories to continue the possible endings of Yumeutsutsu Re:master.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.4%, Adventure 17.8%, Anime 14.2%, Romance 8.7%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%
- #55 Ame no Marginal -Rain Marginal-
69% matchVery Positive87% of 421 reviews2015
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 95%
The latest visual novel by Tomo Kataoka, the author of Narcissu 1st & 2nd, has arrived! An empty world with endless rain and only one person. Here there is no hunger, sickness or even death. Just what story does this world's one occupant have?
Why similar: Visual Novel 50.2%, Anime 42.6%, Story Rich 6%, Emotional 0.9%, 2D 0.3%
- #56 Kinkoi: Golden Loveriche
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 2,101 reviews2021
Dev: Saga PlanetsPub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 17.3 hrsMean: 191.9 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Kinkoi: Golden Loveriche is a Japanese-style visual novel produced by Saga Planets, a Japanese developer of romance VNs. The game won numerous awards in the year of its release in Japan for its art, music, characters, and story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.6%, Anime 18.6%, Romance 17.2%, Nudity 6%, Sexual Content 5.6%
- #57 Eden Survivors
66% matchMixed59% of 142 reviews2025
Dev: Deadlime GamesPub: Fantasy Fusions Studios
Windows
Fight. Flirt. Save the galaxy. Eden Survivors combines rogue-like action, mech-building, and steamy Visual Novel storytelling. Recruit gorgeous heroines, battle through 30 epic levels and explore a universe where love and danger collide. Your adventure, your story, your desires.
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.8%, Anime 25.2%, Story Rich 10.3%, Nudity 9.6%, Sexual Content 7%
- #58 GINKA
63% matchVery Positive91% of 2,764 reviews2023
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 41.5 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 34.4%, Anime 23.1%, Romance 13.6%, Story Rich 6.6%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%
