- #1 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,634 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.9 hrsMean: 40.4 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 22.5%, Cult Classic 20.3% ★, Mystery 16.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Psychological 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the same author, this title offers a similarly deep, complex mystery with an unmatched atmospheric narrative.
- #2 Umineko When They Cry - Answer Arcs
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,457 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 24.7 hrsMean: 46.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 24.4%, Cult Classic 19.3% ★, Mystery 17.6%, Great Soundtrack 13%, Story Rich 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: The essential conclusion to the Umineko mystery that provides the same level of psychological depth and narrative payoff as the Higurashi series.
- #3 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
96% matchVery Positive93% of 6,967 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 21.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Kidnapped and taken to an unfamiliar location, nine people find themselves forced to participate in a diabolical Nonary Game by an enigmatic mastermind called Zero. Why were they there? Why were they chosen to put their lives on the line? And more importantly, who can be trusted?
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.4%, Mystery 23.3%, Story Rich 12.7%, Anime 12.7%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a high-stakes death game and complex psychological puzzles that mirror the tension found in Higurashi.
- #4 The House in Fata Morgana
95% matchVery Positive95% of 6,041 reviews2016
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 6.4 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 28.7%, Mystery 18.1%, Anime 13.1%, Dark 10.7%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: An incredibly atmospheric and gothic visual novel that excels at psychological storytelling and emotional impact.
- #5 Raging Loop
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 9,674 reviews2017
Dev: KEMCO
Windows
Median: 23.9 hrsMean: 58.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
The feast has begun, can you escape the village alive?
Why similar: Visual Novel 40%, Mystery 21%, Psychological 16.3%, Story Rich 9%, Anime 7%
Why You'll Like It: A brilliant psychological horror visual novel that uses a time-loop mechanic to explore a village mystery filled with paranoia.
- #6 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 35,609 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 22.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Investigate murders, search for clues and talk to your classmates to prepare for trial. There, you'll engage in deadly wordplay, going back and forth with suspects. Dissect their statements and fire their words back at them to expose their lies! There's only one way to survive—pull the trigger.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.9%, Mystery 22.6%, Anime 20.5%, Great Soundtrack 11.6%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines a claustrophobic death game setting with intense mystery-solving and memorable, eccentric characters.
- #7 CHAOS;CHILD
93% matchVery Positive94% of 3,800 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 81.1 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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 35.6%, Mystery 19%, Anime 14.5%, Psychological 10.9%, Story Rich 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, gripping psychological mystery that explores the consequences of trauma and supernatural phenomena.
- #8 Wonderful Everyday Down the Rabbit-Hole
92% matchVery Positive93% of 2,444 reviews2017
Dev: KeroQPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 9.4 hrsMean: 168.3 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Wonderful Everyday is a visual novel with multiple routes which develops a story based on a few concepts: "the sky and the world", "the beginning and the end", "literature and science", "savior and hero", "brother and sister".
Why similar: Visual Novel 37%, Psychological 18.8%, Mystery 14.3%, Anime 12.6%, Story Rich 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A profound and disturbing psychological visual novel that challenges the player's perception of reality.
- #9 The Song of Saya
91% 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 45.6%, Cult Classic 13.9% ★, Anime 11.7%, Dark 8.9%, Great Soundtrack 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short but deeply unsettling psychological horror story that explores themes of love, madness, and cosmic dread.
- #10 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
91% 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 28.1%, Mystery 14.8%, Anime 12.6%, Psychological 10.4%, Cult Classic 7.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: The direct sequel that continues the mystery of Hinamizawa with even higher stakes and darker revelations.
- #11 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi
90% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,224 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 22.0 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 21.2%, Psychological 15.6%, Cult Classic 14.4% ★, Mystery 12.3%, Anime 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A pivotal chapter that deepens the psychological horror and explores the tragic nature of the protagonist's struggle.
- #12 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 867 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 23.6%, Cult Classic 15.3% ★, Mystery 13.5%, Anime 11.7%, Psychological 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Provides crucial background information that helps piece together the larger mystery of the series.
- #13 AI: The Somnium Files
89% matchVery Positive92% of 9,101 reviews2019
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 15.1 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 36.4%, Mystery 23.5%, Anime 19.9%, Story Rich 11.6%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A complex detective mystery that blends psychological themes with surreal, dream-like investigation sequences.
- #14 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.5 Meakashi
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,008 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.6%, Mystery 18.7%, Anime 17.5%, Great Soundtrack 12.4%, Story Rich 8%
Why You'll Like It: A perspective-shifting chapter that offers a chilling look into the events of the village from a different viewpoint.
- #15 PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,520 reviews2023
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
How far would you go to bring someone back from the dead? Discover the depths that some will go to in this horror-adventure game.
Why similar: Visual Novel 39.3%, Mystery 22.9%, Anime 21.7%, Story Rich 11%, Adventure 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery set in Japan that uses clever narrative mechanics to build suspense and dread.
- #16 G-senjou no Maou - The Devil on G-String
87% matchVery Positive92% of 744 reviews2015
Dev: AKABEiSOFT2Pub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 33.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%
You play as Azai Kyousuke, the son of an infamous gangster. Kyousuke knows what he likes and lets nothing stand in his way in getting what he wants. Referred to as God by his classmates, he often enjoys listening to Bach and "working" part time for his stepfather.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.6%, Mystery 17.5%, Anime 16.5%, Story Rich 10.5%, Great Soundtrack 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A high-stakes thriller that pits a brilliant protagonist against a mastermind in a game of cat and mouse.
- #17 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.6 Tsumihoroboshi
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 873 reviews2018
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 40.2 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 38%, Mystery 20.7%, Anime 18.6%, Story Rich 8.9%, Dark 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A turning point in the series that focuses on redemption and the cycle of violence.
- #18 STEINS;GATE
86% 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 43.1%, Anime 20.1%, Story Rich 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 11.2%, Mystery 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: While more sci-fi focused, it shares the same slow-burn tension and emotional investment found in the best visual novels.
- #19 Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority-
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 3,866 reviews2023
Dev: NankidaiPub: 0UP GAMES
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 14.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: Psychological 30.5%, Mystery 23%, Dark 16.1%, Anime 15.8%, Story Rich 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: An intense death game visual novel that forces players to make difficult moral choices under extreme pressure.
- #20 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.7 Minagoroshi
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 663 reviews2019
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 15.8 hrsMean: 91.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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 33.9%, Mystery 22.8%, Anime 21.1%, Story Rich 10.5%, Dark 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: The penultimate chapter that begins to unravel the truth behind the tragedies of Hinamizawa.
- #21 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.8 Matsuribayashi
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 753 reviews2020
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.6 hrsMean: 76.9 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 52.2%, Anime 16.3%, Great Soundtrack 12.2%, Story Rich 9.7%, Adventure 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: The grand finale that brings all the mysteries of the series to a satisfying and emotional conclusion.
- #22 428: Shibuya Scramble
82% matchVery Positive95% of 3,587 reviews2018
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 50.6%, Mystery 26.3%, Story Rich 11.4%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%, Adventure 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: A masterfully written mystery that interweaves the lives of multiple characters in a high-stakes, time-sensitive plot.
- #23 Corpse Party
82% matchVery Positive89% of 1,369 reviews2016
Dev: GrisGrisPub: XSEED Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 17.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
A group of friends unknowingly perform an occult ritual that traps them in an otherworldly elementary school. Here, the vengeful spirits of young children threaten their lives and their sanity, and the only hope of survival is to uncover the chilling details behind the murders of those trapped before them...
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.4%, Anime 31.5%, Story Rich 10%, Dark 9.2%, Great Soundtrack 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic horror visual novel that focuses on atmospheric dread and the gruesome consequences of supernatural events.
- #24 Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 30,083 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 33.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Jabberwock Island—You and your classmates were ready for fun in the sun until Monokuma returned to restart his murderous game! Trapped in a kill-or-be-killed situation, your only hope rests in solving the island’s mysteries.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.5%, Anime 20.3%, Mystery 19.9%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Story Rich 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Expands on the death game formula with even more complex mysteries and a surreal island setting.
- #25 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
81% 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 45.9%, Anime 18.4%, Mystery 16.9%, Story Rich 10.3%, Great Soundtrack 4%
Why You'll Like It: A tense psychological thriller that uses a unique 'Senses Sympathy System' to influence the narrative.
- #26 Iwaihime
81% matchMostly Positive79% of 873 reviews2020
Dev: DMM GAMESPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
From hit writer Ryukishi07, the creator of When They Cry, comes a story on the theme of “curses.” Strike down the dark riddle of dolls and soot in this supernatural horror visual novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.6%, Anime 24.6%, Story Rich 8.2%, Atmospheric 6.9%, Psychological 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural horror visual novel that deals with curses and psychological trauma in a traditional Japanese setting.
- #27 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Rei
78% matchVery Positive98% of 252 reviews2022
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 197.5 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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 44.7%, Anime 17.6%, Story Rich 9.4%, Mystery 7.4%, Cute 7%
- #28 Spirit Hunter: Death Mark
79% matchVery Positive82% of 496 reviews2019
Dev: EXPERIENCEPub: Aksys Games
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
A strange rumor is spreading through the shadows of Tokyo's H City: a mysterious disfigurement has been appearing on the bodies of certain individuals. Anyone who receives the Mark will rapidly die of unknown, horrifying causes. The countdown to death has already begun...
Why similar: Visual Novel 71.4%, Anime 20.6%, Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: A horror-mystery game that focuses on investigating supernatural urban legends in a dark, atmospheric setting.
- #29 Higurashi When They Cry Hou+
77% matchVery Positive88% of 163 reviews2023
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 64%
The tragedy of Hinamizawa is over. Those held captive within its grip are free from the fate that bound them to June 1983. Yet the tale of Hinamizawa is not truly complete. There are many worlds not yet explored.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.3%, Psychological 26.7%, Anime 17.8%, Mystery 5.4%, Classic 3.6% ★
- #30 Fatal Twelve
78% matchVery Positive92% of 995 reviews2018
Dev: LYCORISPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Shishimai Rinka was a high schooler who ran a small café named Lion House in place of her grandmother. She lived her life much like any other person her age, but one day, she was caught up in an explosion while returning home on the train alongside her friend, Hitsuji Naomi.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.1%, Mystery 18.9%, Anime 17.9%, Story Rich 11.7%, Great Soundtrack 7%
Why You'll Like It: A death game visual novel that explores the lives of twelve individuals fighting for survival in a supernatural tournament.
- #31 Tokyo Dark
79% matchVery Positive84% of 1,336 reviews2017
Dev: CherrymochiPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Legend tells of a door deep below Tokyo's sewers. All who enter are lost forever. Detective Ito's partner is missing. Explore Tokyo & uncover the darkness that lays beneath the streets in this Point & Click - meets Visual Novel - narrative adventure that questions the very core of Ito's sanity.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.2%, Anime 22.6%, Mystery 18.9%, Psychological 8.6%, Story Rich 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological horror mystery that features a branching narrative based on the player's sanity and choices.
- #32 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
74% 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 54.4%, Anime 20.7%, Great Soundtrack 10.5%, Story Rich 8.8%, Adventure 2.6%
- #33 CLANNAD
76% 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 44%, Anime 21.3%, Great Soundtrack 10.8%, Story Rich 10.8%, Classic 7.2% ★
- #34 Ciconia When They Cry - Phase 1: For You, the Replaceable Ones
77% matchVery Positive93% of 540 reviews2019
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac
Median: 12.2 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 74%
This is the first chapter in newest entry When They Cry visual novel series produced by Ryuukishi07. It features HD graphics, more detailed animations, and newly created songs by many of the composers from Umineko, as well as several new additions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 38.4%, Mystery 20.8%, Anime 15.1%, Great Soundtrack 12.1%, Story Rich 9%
- #35 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
75% matchVery Positive89% of 1,696 reviews2022
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 52.6 hrs≥1hr: 82%
CHAOS;HEAD NOAH is now available on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.8%, Mystery 20.8%, Anime 17.1%, Story Rich 10.9%, Great Soundtrack 4.1%
- #36 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
73% 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 50.3%, Anime 23.7%, Story Rich 12.5%, Great Soundtrack 8.6%, Adventure 2.3%
- #37 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
76% 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 59.6%, Anime 24%, Great Soundtrack 8.2%, Story Rich 6.6%, Indie 0.4%
- #38 eden*
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,041 reviews2015
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 60.0 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 47.4%, Anime 28.6%, Story Rich 8.8%, Great Soundtrack 7.8%, Cute 2.9%
- #39 Return to Shironagasu Island
74% matchVery Positive94% of 3,990 reviews2020
Dev: HYOGO ONIMUSHIPub: TABINOMICHI
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 14.2 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 41.8%, Mystery 26.5%, Anime 13.9%, Story Rich 6.5%, Adventure 5%
- #40 STEINS;GATE 0
73% 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 40.6%, Anime 19.3%, Story Rich 13.7%, Great Soundtrack 11.8%, Psychological 6.5%
- #41 Doki Doki Literature Club!
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 219,150 reviews2017
Dev: Team Salvato
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 38.2 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 39.3%, Anime 24.2%, Dark 12%, Great Soundtrack 8.7%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #42 Go! Go! Nippon! ~My First Trip to Japan~
73% 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 54.1%, Anime 39.8%, Cute 2.2%, Story Rich 1.5%, Adventure 1.1%
- #43 fault - milestone one
72% 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 53.1%, Anime 28.5%, Great Soundtrack 7.9%, Story Rich 7.4%, Singleplayer 1.5%
- #44 Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony
72% matchVery Positive83% of 21,767 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 30.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
A new cast of 16 characters find themselves kidnapped and imprisoned in a school. Inside, some will kill, some will die, and some will be punished. Reimagine what you thought high-stakes, fast-paced investigation was as you investigate twisted murder cases and condemn your new friends to death.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Mystery 20%, Anime 17.9%, Great Soundtrack 10.7%, Story Rich 10.4%
- #45 A Kiss For The Petals - Remembering How We Met
71% 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 55.5%, Anime 31.9%, Cute 6.4%, Story Rich 2.2%, Mature 1.8%
- #46 fault - milestone two side:above
70% 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 49.2%, Anime 25%, Story Rich 12.3%, Great Soundtrack 9%, Linear 1.4%
- #47 YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
68% 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 50.5%, Anime 17.9%, Psychological 9.7%, Story Rich 7.8%, Great Soundtrack 5%
- #48 The Shell Part I: Inferno
67% matchVery Positive91% of 1,325 reviews2023
Dev: Innocent GreyPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 10.7 hrsMean: 110.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Unravel a string of gruesome murders terrorizing Tokyo in this mystery-thriller visual novel. The secrets of a case from six years prior may just be the key to the current unending cycle of tragedy—and the thing that cracks this woeful world’s shell may be one girl’s smile.
Why similar: Visual Novel 39%, Mystery 25.7%, Dark 12.4%, Anime 10.6%, Atmospheric 5.8%
- #49 The Silver Case
70% matchVery Positive89% of 1,085 reviews2016
Dev: GRASSHOPPER MANUFACTURE INC.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 24.7%, Mystery 19.3%, Psychological 17.7%, Anime 12.9%, Story Rich 8.7%
- #50 Little Busters! English Edition
69% 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 51.9%, Anime 20.6%, Great Soundtrack 11.1%, Story Rich 9.9%, Adventure 3%
- #51 Sound of Drop - fall into poison -
71% matchVery Positive85% of 536 reviews2015
Dev: aiueoKompanyPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 95%
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 48.6%, Anime 23.9%, Mystery 8.9%, Great Soundtrack 6.7%, Story Rich 5.2%
- #52 CROSS†CHANNEL: Steam Edition
70% matchVery Positive90% of 430 reviews2018
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 20.6 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 33.4%, Cult Classic 26.3% ★, Anime 15.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Story Rich 8%
- #53 The Fruit of Grisaia
69% 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 41.9%, Anime 22.3%, Psychological 13.3%, Story Rich 9.8%, Great Soundtrack 4.8%
- #54 Narcissu 10th Anniversary Anthology Project
68% 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 56.7%, Anime 17.4%, Story Rich 12.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%, Atmospheric 3%
- #55 Analogue: A Hate Story
68% 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 65.9%, Anime 18.8%, Story Rich 6%, Great Soundtrack 3.6%, Mystery 2.7%
- #56 The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass
67% matchVery Positive86% of 279 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 25.8%, Psychological 20.7%, Mystery 20.3%, Anime 13.8%, Story Rich 9%
- #57 If My Heart Had Wings
67% 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 39.3%, Anime 21.9%, Story Rich 13.2%, Cute 6.7%, Great Soundtrack 6.2%
- #58 Z.A.T.O. // I Love the World and Everything In It
60% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 7,695 reviews2025
Dev: Ferry // Nopanamaman
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 76%
USSR, 1986. A girl goes missing in the closed city of Vorkuta-5, yet not a soul seems to be concerned. Uncover the mystery behind her disappearance and transmit your signal to the universe.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.3%, Mystery 25.3%, Anime 11%, Story Rich 7.6%, Atmospheric 5.7%
- #59 Tiny Bunny
60% matchVery Positive83% of 29,932 reviews2025
Dev: SaikonoPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Tiny Bunny is a non-linear horror visual novel. Those, who have heard the voice of the forest, are beyond help.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.3%, Dark 15.4%, Story Rich 13.1%, Anime 8.1%, Atmospheric 7.3%
