- #1 The House in Fata Morgana
97% 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 23.1%, Great Soundtrack 21.7%, LGBTQ+ 15.5%, Mystery 12.5%, Anime 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: A gothic, atmospheric mystery that shares the same emotional depth and focus on storytelling as Enigma.
- #2 SeaBed
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,087 reviews2017
Dev: PaleontologyPub: Fruitbat Factory
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 73.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
SeaBed is a yuri-themed psychological mystery visual novel told through the perspectives of three separate characters: Sachiko, Takako and Narasaki.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33%, LGBTQ+ 26.6%, Anime 13.6%, Mystery 7.8%, Indie 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: This title captures the same melancholic, atmospheric, and LGBTQ+ focused narrative style found in Enigma.
- #3 If Found...
96% matchVery Positive90% of 2,350 reviews2020
Dev: DREAMFEELPub: Annapurna Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
If Found... is a game about going home, coming out and erasing everything.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 32.6%, Visual Novel 26.1%, Great Soundtrack 20.4%, Indie 9.2%, Adventure 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: An indie visual novel that explores personal identity and emotional themes with a unique, hand-drawn aesthetic.
- #4 Umineko When They Cry - Answer Arcs
95% 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 35.4%, Visual Novel 25.2%, Mystery 15.6%, Anime 9.1%, Story Rich 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in mystery and atmosphere that provides a similarly intense, story-rich experience.
- #5 Return to Shironagasu Island
94% matchVery Positive94% of 4,204 reviews2020
Dev: ONIMUSHI HyogoPub: TABINOMICHI
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 14.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A mystery adventure game and visual novel set on solitary Shironagasu Island. Discover its secrets, solve its mysteries, and escape from the ominous island!
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.7%, Mystery 21.1%, Adventure 18.4%, Anime 15.1%, Story Rich 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: A tight, mystery-focused adventure that mirrors the isolated island setting of Enigma.
- #6 Analogue: A Hate Story
94% matchVery Positive93% of 2,299 reviews2012
Dev: Love Conquers All Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 6.8 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 53.3%, Anime 17.6%, LGBTQ+ 8.9%, Great Soundtrack 7.6%, Indie 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A deep, mystery-focused visual novel that explores complex social dynamics and history through a digital lens.
- #7 AI: The Somnium Files
93% matchVery Positive92% of 9,378 reviews2019
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Play as detective Kaname Date on the case of an elusive serial killer in this thrilling, sci-fi murder mystery.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.7%, Anime 19.7%, Mystery 17.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.5%, Adventure 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a gripping detective mystery with surreal, atmospheric visual novel elements.
- #8 Hashihime of the Old Book Town
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 686 reviews2019
Dev: ADELTAPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Step into the shoes of an aspiring author during the Taisho era in this psychedelic BL murder-mystery visual novel. Travel back in time to try and save your friends while confronting your own character flaws. Will you retreat into your fantasies, or can you keep it together enough to rescue them?
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.5%, LGBTQ+ 26.9%, Anime 19.9%, Mystery 17.5%, Story Rich 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a compelling blend of mystery, LGBTQ+ themes, and a distinct, atmospheric setting.
- #9 fault - milestone one
91% matchVery Positive92% of 3,240 reviews2014
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 30.2 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 42.2%, Anime 26.1%, Great Soundtrack 16.5%, Adventure 4.4%, Fantasy 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a beautiful, atmospheric fantasy world with a strong focus on character-driven narrative.
- #10 GNOSIA
90% matchVery Positive94% of 5,092 reviews2022
Dev: Petit DepottoPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 15.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The Gnosia lie. Pretending to be human, they’ll get in close, trick and deceive, and then eliminate one victim at a time...
Why similar: Visual Novel 28.6%, LGBTQ+ 19%, Anime 18.6%, Mystery 15.7%, Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: A unique sci-fi mystery that uses visual novel mechanics to explore complex character relationships and social deduction.
- #11 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
91% 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 36.4%, Anime 18.6%, Mystery 17.8%, Great Soundtrack 13.1%, Story Rich 5%
Why You'll Like It: An essential atmospheric mystery that excels at building tension within a small, isolated community.
- #12 ISLAND
89% 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 34.4%, Anime 22.6%, Mystery 11.9%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Adventure 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a mysterious island setting and a complex, story-rich narrative that fans of Enigma will appreciate.
- #13 Magical Eyes - Red is for Anguish
89% matchVery Positive82% of 72 reviews2016
Dev: Pomera StudiosPub: Fruitbat Factory
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Magical Eyes - Red is for Anguish is a thrilling mystery story revolving around a series of unfathomable incidents in a town.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.8%, Anime 21.4%, Mystery 16.9%, Adventure 13.4%, Indie 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-focused visual novel with a distinct anime aesthetic and a focus on supernatural occurrences.
- #14 A Light in the Dark
87% matchVery Positive93% of 1,735 reviews2018
Dev: CreSpiritPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
──We cannot choose in this unfair world.The rich boy stuck in his never changing daily life...The fierce girl struggling for survival...Two people in totally opposite positions in life.In the face of confusion and the choices before them, what will they find...?
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.9%, Great Soundtrack 21.5%, Anime 18.4%, Indie 12.1%, Story Rich 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: An emotional indie visual novel that focuses on character growth and mystery within a confined space.
- #15 An Octave Higher
88% matchVery Positive82% of 300 reviews2015
Dev: KidalangPub: PLAYISM
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Fall into the magically complicated world of Overture as the three main characters embark on an adventure that will shake their lives and the world around them. Will they fan the flames of the growing revolution, or will they be the key to extinguishing it?
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.8%, Anime 17.9%, Great Soundtrack 12.7%, Adventure 11.2%, Indie 8%
Why You'll Like It: An indie visual novel that explores social issues through a fantasy lens with a strong narrative focus.
- #16 VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 38,654 reviews2016
Dev: Sukeban GamesPub: Ysbryd Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 31.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action is a booze em' up about waifus, technology, and post-dystopia life.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.2%, LGBTQ+ 25.5%, Anime 17.6%, Adventure 7.9%, Cute 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features a heavy focus on atmosphere, LGBTQ+ characters, and intimate, story-rich conversations.
- #17 Coffee Talk
85% matchVery Positive95% of 12,534 reviews2020
Dev: Toge Productions
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Coffee Talk is a coffee brewing and heart-to-heart talking simulator about listening to fantasy-inspired modern peoples’ problems, and helping them by serving up a warm drink or two.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.2%, LGBTQ+ 26.4%, Anime 16.9%, Story Rich 7.4%, Indie 6%
Why You'll Like It: A cozy yet deeply atmospheric game that centers on the personal stories and lives of its diverse cast.
- #18 1bitHeart
86% matchVery Positive91% of 919 reviews2017
Dev: △○□× (Miwashiba)Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Welcome to 1bitHeart―the latest title from Alicemare and LiEat developer △○□× (Miwashiba). In this unique and endearing adventure game, take on the role of Nanashi, a lonely, agoraphobic boy, as you solve a slew of mysteries around town while also making friends.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 23.6%, Visual Novel 22%, Anime 17.6%, Mystery 10.9%, Adventure 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A charming, mystery-solving visual novel that balances cute aesthetics with a compelling story.
- #19 OPUS: Echo of Starsong - Full Bloom Edition
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 9,443 reviews2021
Dev: SIGONO INC.
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Echo of Starsong is a visual novel style adventure game. Eda, a girl who can hear mysterious sound waves known as starsong, crosses paths with a young man in search of their source. Together, they venture out to the heart of space to unravel an ancient myth.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.9%, Anime 27%, Adventure 10.1%, Story Rich 8.6%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply emotional and atmospheric adventure that focuses on discovery and character bonds.
- #20 Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority-
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 4,394 reviews2023
Dev: NankidaiPub: 0UP GAMES
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority- is a multi-ending horror adventure game. Sara Chidouin returns home from school late one night to discover that something's gone terribly wrong. When she comes to, she finds herself, her friend Joe, and 9 other people trapped in a mysterious place.
Why similar: Mystery 36.3%, Anime 33.4%, Adventure 17%, Story Rich 10%, Singleplayer 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: A high-stakes mystery visual novel that emphasizes character choices and intense narrative progression.
- #21 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
84% 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 49.8%, Anime 23.1%, Great Soundtrack 17.8%, Indie 4.3%, Story Rich 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic indie visual novel known for its profound emotional impact and atmospheric writing.
- #22 Adabana Odd Tales
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,077 reviews2020
Dev: Liar-softPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 50.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
"This is a tale of 'flowers' that never bloom." Shirohime, a girl who has lost her memory, and Kurofude, a mysterious boy, traverse through classic Japanese fairy tales within the land of Adabana, a realm of illustrated books. What awaits them after they mend the distorted tales?
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.9%, Great Soundtrack 25.1%, Adventure 23.4%, Anime 10%, Story Rich 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully illustrated visual novel that blends folklore and mystery in a unique narrative structure.
- #23 428: Shibuya Scramble
81% matchVery Positive95% of 3,939 reviews2018
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A kidnapping on the streets of Shibuya brings together a hot-blooded detective, hard-hitting journalist, former gang leader, the head researcher of a big pharma manufacturer and a part-timer stuck in cat costume for a series of events each more unexpected and outrageous than the last.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.3%, Mystery 20.3%, Great Soundtrack 16.4%, Adventure 11.9%, Story Rich 6%
Why You'll Like It: A complex, multi-perspective mystery that rewards careful reading and narrative exploration.
- #24 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
82% matchVery Positive91% of 615 reviews2016
Dev: YetiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.2 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 42.8%, Anime 19.8%, Mystery 13.6%, Great Soundtrack 9.6%, Adventure 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A high-tension mystery visual novel that utilizes a unique choice system to uncover the truth.
- #25 STEINS;GATE
81% 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 37.5%, Great Soundtrack 25.2%, Anime 20.1%, Story Rich 6.8%, Mystery 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential sci-fi mystery that balances character-driven humor with a dark, overarching plot.
- #26 Everlasting Summer
80% 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 36.1%, Great Soundtrack 28.6%, Anime 18.5%, Story Rich 6.2%, Mystery 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric, indie visual novel that captures a similar sense of mystery and isolation in a unique setting.
- #27 ROBOTICS;NOTES ELITE
79% matchVery Positive91% of 708 reviews2020
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 8.2 hrsMean: 38.0 hrs≥1hr: 68%
Thanks to the rising popularity of the PhoneDroid—a device which features augmented reality (A.R.)—the age of advanced technology has finally reached Tanegashima. On that island, Central Tanegashima High's "Robot Research Club" is about to have their club disbanded.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.7%, Great Soundtrack 21.5%, Adventure 15.9%, Anime 13.4%, Mystery 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi visual novel that excels at building a mystery through character-driven adventure.
- #28 The Silver Case
79% matchVery Positive89% of 1,192 reviews2016
Dev: GRASSHOPPER MANUFACTURE INC.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
The Silver Case – the debut title from world-renowned developer SUDA51 has been fully remastered and localized to English for the first time ever!
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.3%, Mystery 23%, Anime 20.5%, Adventure 13.1%, Story Rich 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish, surreal mystery that emphasizes atmosphere and experimental narrative techniques.
- #29 Tyrion Cuthbert: Attorney of the Arcane
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,720 reviews2023
Dev: Diamondhenge Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 79%
In Tyrion Cuthbert: Attorney of the Arcane, you play as a defense attorney who practices law in a world of fantasy and wizards. You must defend clients accused of various crimes committed using magic and use the rules of magic to prove them innocent.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.7%, Anime 20.8%, Mystery 17.4%, Indie 6%, Great Soundtrack 5.8%
- #30 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
78% 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: Great Soundtrack 35.6%, Visual Novel 25.7%, Mystery 16.2%, Anime 9.2%, Story Rich 5.1%
- #31 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
74% 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 40.8%, Great Soundtrack 20.6%, Anime 17.9%, Adventure 7.9%, Magic 6.5%
- #32 Heart of the Woods
77% matchVery Positive95% of 983 reviews2019
Dev: Studio Élan
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 73.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A fantasy yuri visual novel filled with magic, fairies, and a ghost girl. When Maddie and her best friend, Tara, journey to a remote forest village to investigate rumors of the supernatural, they find a whole lot more than they bargained for.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 25.6%, Visual Novel 24.2%, Anime 15.4%, Mystery 9.2%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%
- #33 Hate Plus
78% matchVery Positive84% of 589 reviews2013
Dev: Love Conquers All Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Let's spend the next three real-time days together uncovering the mystery of what went horribly wrong on a derelict generation ship, with the help of a spunky/more-than-slightly-traumatized AI sidekick! A sequel to Analogue: A Hate Story that tells a whole new hate story of its own.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.2%, Anime 17.4%, Great Soundtrack 11.3%, LGBTQ+ 7%, Indie 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A direct follow-up to Analogue that continues to explore deep, mystery-laden themes in a sci-fi setting.
- #34 Symphonic Rain
76% 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 30.3%, Anime 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 20.4%, Adventure 9.2%, Cute 7.7%
- #35 The Divine Speaker
73% matchVery Positive96% of 448 reviews2022
Dev: Two and a Half Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
A story-rich tale of breaking the bonds of fate... and meeting some cute guys along the way!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 26%, Visual Novel 24.6%, Anime 15.5%, Mystery 11.3%, Adventure 7.7%
- #36 A Clockwork Ley-Line: The Borderline of Dusk
75% matchVery Positive92% of 83 reviews2017
Dev: Unison Shift: BlossomPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
In a mysterious school where day and night are two separate worlds, a mismatched trio work to resolve magic-related incidents. A world of magic, intrigue, mystery and the occult awaits you!
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.4%, Anime 30.5%, Adventure 11.9%, Mystery 10.9%, Cute 4.8%
- #37 AIdol: Artificial Intelligence Idol
76% matchMixed67% of 67 reviews2018
Dev: MysteryCorgi
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 95%
A young high school student goes on an adventure to save her favorite virtual idol, Aiko, from malfunctioning, and gets help from the most unexpected of places.
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.3%, LGBTQ+ 24.5%, Anime 16.3%, Mystery 13.3%, Cute 7.2%
- #38 The Land Of Lamia
77% matchMixed54% of 70 reviews2015
Dev: Eddy Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
The Land Of Lamia is a short story driven! puzzle game!(/❛o❛)/! Each level has a description page from the book of Lamia which you use to discover clues. The two characters Lily and Thomas are controlled with a unique mechanic you will need to master in order to progress ༼ つ ◕_◕ ༽つ.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 30.2%, Adventure 22.2%, Mystery 15.1%, Indie 14.4%, Cute 6.6%
- #39 Enigmatis 2: The Mists of Ravenwood
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,612 reviews2014
Dev: Artifex Mundi
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Enter Ravenwood Park and discover the secrets hidden in the mists…
Why similar: Adventure 32.6%, Mystery 29.5%, Great Soundtrack 19.7%, Story Rich 7.3%, Indie 4.6%
- #40 Lover's Enigma
69% matchVery Positive92% of 131 reviews2026
Dev: FallenCranberry StudioPub: Okasan's Recipe
Windows · Mac
In Lover's Enigma , you investigate your husband's mysterious death while balancing complex relationships and personal trauma. Navigate a web of secrets involving a hidden cult and key characters. Your choices shape the story and lead to multiple endings.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.4%, Anime 38.1%, Story Rich 9.5%
- #41 Memory Note
73% matchVery Positive95% of 75 reviews2020
Dev: CupcakeTime TeamPub: Phoenix_co
Windows · Mac · Linux
Memory note is a slice-of-life visual novel with meaningful player choices, several endings to explore, and a story that will touch your heart.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 29.8%, Visual Novel 29.6%, Adventure 19.3%, Indie 14.2%, Cute 7.1%
- #42 fault - milestone two side:above
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,568 reviews2015
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 33.1 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 39.4%, Anime 23%, Great Soundtrack 18.8%, Indie 6.4%, Story Rich 6%
- #43 Embracelet
72% matchVery Positive94% of 110 reviews2020
Dev: Mattis FolkestadPub: machineboy
Windows
Explore a beautiful, low-poly Norwegian island as 17-year-old Jesper. Armed with a mysterious, magical bracelet, you'll solve puzzles, uncover your grandfather's past, and make choices in this heartwarming coming-of-age story about love, friendship, and family.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 27.2%, Adventure 25%, Indie 16.2%, Mystery 12.7%, Story Rich 10.8%
- #44 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
70% 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 28.2%, Great Soundtrack 22.7%, Anime 16.1%, Mystery 13.9%, Adventure 6.2%
- #45 Yumeutsutsu Re:After
71% matchVery Positive88% of 106 reviews2020
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 18.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%
What happens "After?" Five stories to continue the possible endings of Yumeutsutsu Re:master.
Why similar: Adventure 37.9%, Visual Novel 23.6%, LGBTQ+ 12.9%, Great Soundtrack 10.9%, Anime 8.5%
- #46 The Fairy's Song
69% matchVery Positive96% of 189 reviews2020
Dev: ebi-hime
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 80%
A yuri / lesbian visual novel set in the UK. Marnie, a bored goth girl, accidentally stumbles upon a sleeping female knight in the forest. Together, the pair must work to break a centuries-old curse, while romantic feelings between them begin to grow.
Why similar: Visual Novel 26%, LGBTQ+ 23.4%, Anime 16.6%, Adventure 9.4%, Cute 7.5%
- #47 NAIRI: Tower of Shirin
70% matchVery Positive85% of 548 reviews2018
Dev: HomeBearStudio
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 63%
A hand-drawn adventure blending visual novel storytelling with point-and-click puzzles. Explore a vibrant yet dangerous oasis city where humans and animals live side by side. Meet unforgettable characters, trade and combine quirky items, and solve challenging puzzle-dungeons filled with mystery.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.6%, Great Soundtrack 19%, Mystery 17%, Cute 9.6%, Adventure 8.9%
- #48 Sona-Nyl of the Violet Shadows Refrain
67% matchVery Positive100% of 67 reviews2023
Dev: Liar-softPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Explore the meaning of memories in this mysterious fairytale where fantasy and reality intertwine. The story unfolds from the perspectives of two women: one who travels in the ruins of Engine City New York, and one who finds herself in an underground world with an eldritch, violet sky.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.4%, Anime 22.2%, Mystery 20.1%, Cute 9.1%, Adventure 8.8%
- #49 Solstice
71% matchMostly Positive76% of 191 reviews2016
Dev: MoaCube
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Solstice is a dystopian mystery visual novel about small personal disasters that turn into great catastrophes.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.7%, LGBTQ+ 24.9%, Mystery 15.4%, Great Soundtrack 13.5%, Story Rich 6.6%
- #50 Tales from Toyotoki: Arrival of the Witch (The witch of the Ihanashi)
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 930 reviews2022
Dev: Fragaria
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
The English version of the heartwarming story that was highly acclaimed in Japan. Enjoy the meticulously crafted narrative. Set in Okinawa, Japan, it is also a story that unravels the mysteries hidden within its history and fantasy.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.2%, Anime 13.2%, Cute 11.6%, Adventure 9.1%, Story Rich 8.8%
- #51 神明的一天世界(God's One Day World)
70% matchVery Positive85% of 728 reviews2016
Dev: 灰烬天国
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 95%
an Visual Novel & Puzzle Game
Why similar: Visual Novel 43%, Adventure 28.6%, Anime 23.2%, Indie 5.3%
- #52 The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles
66% matchVery Positive94% of 9,441 reviews2021
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 34.9 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Immerse yourself in a dramatic yet charming and witty world of evidence-gathering, deduction and courtroom battles with this double-pack of the adventures of rookie lawyer Ryunosuke.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.4%, Anime 18.6%, Mystery 16.6%, Great Soundtrack 15.2%, Adventure 10.5%
- #53 The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass
68% matchVery Positive87% of 295 reviews2021
Dev: Trinitite Team
Windows · Mac · Linux
An intricate mystery visual novel. Search text, piece together clues, and jump around the story to unravel the tangled events within the sealed tower.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.9%, Mystery 23.7%, Anime 21.3%, Adventure 8.7%, Story Rich 7.4%
- #54 OneShot
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 64,754 reviews2016
Dev: Future Cat LLCPub: KOMODO
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 28.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
OneShot is a surreal top down Puzzle/Adventure game with unique gameplay capabilities. You are to guide a child through a mysterious world on a mission to restore its long-dead sun. The world knows you exist.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 51.3%, Cute 12.7%, Story Rich 11.7%, Adventure 10%, Indie 9.8%
- #55 Staffer Retro : A Supernatural Mystery Quest
62% matchVery Positive90% of 1,084 reviews2026
Dev: Team Tetrapod
Windows · Mac
Staffer Retro is a mystery adventure game where you uncover past incidents related to ‘Mana’, the source of supernatural powers. Gather information through dialogue and exploration, and piece together clues found in documents to guide the choices of Verita Retro, the protagonist.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.6%, Mystery 23.5%, Anime 21.5%, Adventure 11.1%, Story Rich 7.4%
- #56 Broken Hearts Island
67% matchMostly Positive78% of 414 reviews2023
Dev: Evil Boobs Cult
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Broken Hearts Island, a visual novel in the fantasy genre, tells the story of the adventures of a young oceanologist on a mysterious island.
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.7%, Anime 25.3%, Mystery 15.6%, Cute 8.9%, Magic 8.5%
- #57 Sound of Drop - fall into poison -
69% matchVery Positive85% of 539 reviews2015
Dev: aiueoKompanyPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the quaint little aquarium, Manten Aquarium. Numerous urban legends have arisen from here. On the night of the full moon the waters turn to blood and man faced fish lurk within.
Why similar: Visual Novel 39.8%, Anime 22.9%, Great Soundtrack 14.5%, Adventure 7.2%, Mystery 6.4%
- #58 Entropic Float: This World Will Decay And Disappear
67% matchPositive92% of 50 reviews2022
Dev: Nico HPub: Starfield Gaming
Windows · Mac
A free drama-mystery visual novel with a modern fantasy setting. Reach out to the fourteen people trapped inside to find the truth through eighteen endings, influenced by but not exclusively bound to your own system time.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.5%, LGBTQ+ 21.7%, Mystery 19.3%, Anime 11%, Story Rich 6%
- #59 Seers Isle
68% matchVery Positive92% of 201 reviews2018
Dev: Nova-box
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Seers Isle is a narrative game, set in a fantasy version of medieval northern Europe, where your choices impact the fate of a group of characters.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.9%, Great Soundtrack 23%, Mystery 13%, Adventure 11.8%, Indie 8%
