- #1 PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 7,313 reviews2023
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 8.8 hrsMean: 10.2 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 22.7%, Text-Based 16.8%, 2D Platformer 11.6%, Choose Your Own Adventure 9.9%, Horror 9%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in occult mystery and supernatural investigation that mirrors the eerie, urban-legend-focused narrative of the seed game.
- #2 Urban Myth Dissolution Center
96% matchVery Positive88% of 6,362 reviews2025
Dev: HakababunkoPub: SHUEISHA GAMES
Windows
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Join forces with the psychic Director of the Urban Myth Dissolution Center and solve a variety of cases involving cursed relics, rental properties with shady histories, and dimensional anomalies. Monstrous oddities and otherworldly planes abound in this occult mystery adventure game!
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.4%, Text-Based 16.8%, Mystery 11.9%, Adventure 10.6%, Choose Your Own Adventure 10%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similar focus on investigating urban legends and supernatural occurrences through a compelling visual novel format.
- #3 Spirit Hunter: Death Mark II
96% matchVery Positive98% of 175 reviews2024
Dev: EXPERIENCEPub: Aksys Games
Windows
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark II is a suspense-horror game set at a prestigious academy. When rumors circulate about supernatural occurrences at the famed Konoehara Academy in Tokyo’s H City, it’s up to the head of the Kujou family, also known as the “Spirit Doctor,” to take on the case.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Choose Your Own Adventure 18.3%, Adventure 14%, Horror 12.2%, Gore 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines investigative gameplay with intense supernatural horror, perfect for those who enjoy the ghost-hunting aspect of the seed game.
- #4 Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority-
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 4,472 reviews2023
Dev: NankidaiPub: 0UP GAMES
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 13.5 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: Choose Your Own Adventure 44.3%, Mystery 22.2%, Adventure 16.4%, Story Rich 8.3%, 2D 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A high-stakes mystery game that balances dark, life-or-death situations with character-driven narrative and humor.
- #5 Ib
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 5,340 reviews2022
Dev: kouriPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 16.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A 2D exploration adventure game set in a creepy, mysterious art gallery.
Why similar: Choose Your Own Adventure 38.2%, Horror 20.5%, Choices Matter 12%, Story Rich 10.9%, Casual 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic 2D horror-adventure that captures the same unsettling, surreal atmosphere found in Shiori's journey.
- #6 Hira Hira Hihiru
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 985 reviews2023
Dev: BA-KUPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 16.7 hrs≥1hr: 71%
"Hira Hira Hihiru" is a visual novel set in a fictional Taishō Era. It tells the story of its two protagonists' struggle against Aerodema, a terrifying disease which brings the dead back to life.
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 19.2%, Adventure 13.9%, Text-Based 12.2%, Casual 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-heavy mystery that explores life and death themes through an engaging, supernatural-tinged visual novel experience.
- #7 ghostpia Season One
93% matchVery Positive93% of 987 reviews2023
Dev: ChosuidoPub: room6
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 81%
"In my dreams, I can get out. In my dreams, I can fit in." 'ghostpia' mixes the adorable art style of an illustrated book with glitches-and-noise effects. There are no choices to be made. There's only a lonely girl in a ghost town and her story full of mystery, friendhood...and a bit of violence.
Why similar: Visual Novel 19.9%, Choose Your Own Adventure 18.6%, Text-Based 17.1%, Cinematic 15.7%, Horror 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a highly atmospheric and melancholic take on ghost-themed storytelling with a distinct visual style.
- #8 GNOSIA
92% matchVery Positive94% of 5,158 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 49.6%, Mystery 20.7%, Adventure 16.7%, Story Rich 10.8%, Singleplayer 2.2%
Why You'll Like It: Utilizes a time-loop mechanic where the protagonist must repeatedly investigate deaths to uncover the truth, mirroring the seed game's core loop.
- #9 Return to Shironagasu Island
91% matchVery Positive94% of 4,299 reviews2020
Dev: ONIMUSHI HyogoPub: TABINOMICHI
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 13.9 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 38.1%, Adventure 21.8%, Mystery 15.9%, Horror 12.1%, Choices Matter 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A gripping mystery-horror visual novel that emphasizes investigation and uncovering the truth behind a dark incident.
- #10 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
91% matchVery Positive93% of 7,427 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 21.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 40.5%, Mystery 16.1%, Choices Matter 10.4%, Story Rich 8.6%, Adventure 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive death-game mystery series that blends complex puzzles with a dark, branching narrative.
- #11 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 38,953 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 22.7 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 41.2%, Mystery 18.5%, Dark Comedy 17.9%, Story Rich 7.5%, Horror 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: Expertly balances dark comedy with a high-stakes mystery plot, capturing the tonal shift between horror and absurdity.
- #12 Sentimental Death Loop
90% matchMixed65% of 189 reviews2023
Dev: qureate
Windows
Just as you begin to settle in for a fun day at your best friend's house, something changes in her and she kills you. And not just once—she ends your life time and time and time again.Your goal is to escape from this endless loop of despair.
Why similar: Visual Novel 26.8%, Choose Your Own Adventure 23.1%, 2D Platformer 16.6%, Adventure 13.9%, Horror 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a protagonist trapped in a cycle of death, directly echoing the core premise of Shiori's struggle.
- #13 The Shell Part I: Inferno
89% matchVery Positive90% of 1,505 reviews2023
Dev: Innocent GreyPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 10.8 hrsMean: 116.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
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 27.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 12%, Cinematic 11.9%, Mystery 11.8%, Text-Based 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: A gritty detective mystery that delves into psychological horror and dark themes.
- #14 Staffer Case: A Supernatural Mystery Adventure
88% matchVery Positive94% of 4,356 reviews2023
Dev: Team Tetrapod
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Staffer Case is a new sort of mystery game, asking players to find clues, arrange them into documents, and point out the contradictions between them to solve a series of murders. Each mystery unraveled leads you closer to the truth lying at the heart of each case!
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.4%, Text-Based 28%, Mystery 17.6%, Adventure 12.4%, Story Rich 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on detective work within a supernatural context, providing a satisfying investigative experience.
- #15 HAPPY SAIN† SHEOL
87% matchVery Positive84% of 258 reviews2024
Dev: HUNGRYCULTPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Two thousand years ago, the Pestis Disaster swept through the land, corrupting all living things and making it to difficult to live on the land. Having touched the darkest darkness the world has seen, one must now face the dazzling light. Thus I pose this question. Whose wings did I see that day?
Why similar: Visual Novel 28%, Adventure 17%, Text-Based 13.9%, Gore 12.5%, Horror 12.1%
Why You'll Like It: Delivers a dark, anime-inspired horror experience that aligns with the occult and supernatural tone of the seed game.
- #16 Corpse Party
86% matchVery Positive89% of 1,404 reviews2016
Dev: GrisGrisPub: XSEED Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 16.9 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 29%, Horror 28.2%, Gore 20.2%, Adventure 11.6%, Story Rich 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential 2D occult horror game that focuses on the tragic, lingering spirits trapped in a supernatural setting.
- #17 The Chrono Jotter
84% matchVery Positive94% of 2,280 reviews2021
Dev: Orca LayoutPub: 2P Games
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Rewind time to save your girlfriend in a twisted high school death game. A gripping yuri visual novel: Investigate brutal murders, unravel psychological horrors, and fight for a forbidden love that defies death itself.
Why similar: Visual Novel 35.8%, Mystery 15.2%, Horror 14.1%, Adventure 13.9%, Gore 12.8%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich mystery game that emphasizes character development and investigative narrative.
- #18 Yet Another Killing Game
83% matchVery Positive97% of 258 reviews2025
Dev: Soulseer Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
You wake up in a house, alone with two beautiful girls... But no one is allowed to leave until one of you DIES. Why is this happening? What is the purpose of this “killing game”? But most importantly...WHO SHOULD DIE?!
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.4%, Text-Based 19.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 18%, Mystery 13.6%, Adventure 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological horror mystery that focuses on multiple endings and the consequences of the protagonist's choices.
- #19 BAD END
86% matchVery Positive83% of 398 reviews2015
Dev: Arai Koh Create OfficePub: YOX-Project
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
It's rumored that those who play 'BAD END'- a Visual Novel will die in REAL LIFE if they make the wrong decision in the game itself.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.9%, Choose Your Own Adventure 21.1%, Mystery 13.5%, Horror 12.8%, Adventure 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: A horror-focused visual novel that embraces the darker, more tragic side of narrative-driven mystery.
- #20 WORLD OF HORROR
82% matchVery Positive90% of 9,862 reviews2023
Dev: panstaszPub: Ysbryd Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Experience the quiet terror of this 1-bit love letter to Junji Ito and H.P. Lovecraft. Navigate a hellish roguelite reality with turn-based combat and unforgiving choices. Experiment with your deck of event cards to discover new forms of cosmic horror in every playthrough. The inevitable awaits...
Why similar: Horror 44.5%, Mystery 24.5%, Adventure 17.7%, 2D 11.5%, Singleplayer 1.9%
Why You'll Like It: A cosmic horror game that leans heavily into occult themes and mystery, perfect for fans of dark, text-based storytelling.
- #21 SHINJUKU SOUMEI
84% matchVery Positive81% of 95 reviews2024
Dev: G-MODE
Windows
Through the eyes of Torao, explore a story that raises profound questions about the value of life. Questions that speak to those living in modern times, those in the city, and for all of us.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34%, Choose Your Own Adventure 22.1%, Adventure 21.8%, Gore 8.8%, Choices Matter 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-rich adventure that explores complex mysteries and supernatural elements.
- #22 12 Hours to Die
85% matchMostly Positive73% of 226 reviews2020
Dev: Wesley ReitsmaPub: Westeford
Windows · Mac · Linux
A mystery visual novel about six students forced to play a 12-hour long killing game.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.6%, Mystery 16.6%, Adventure 15.9%, Gore 9.6%, Violent 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-driven visual novel that forces the player to solve a case under a strict time limit.
- #23 Blood Lily Ghoststories
80% matchVery Positive92% of 132 reviews2025
Dev: Sounding Stone / 老奉毊
Windows
A horror game about a needy female ghost. A trio of close-knit occult club girls gather late at night to enjoy telling ghost stories. Little do they know that Miss Choker, a ghost that targets girls, is just dying to appear...
Why similar: Visual Novel 34%, Horror 13.9%, Choices Matter 12.1%, Mystery 11.1%, Adventure 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a female protagonist navigating supernatural mysteries with a focus on choices and multiple outcomes.
- #24 Hazy Mind
81% matchVery Positive87% of 355 reviews2024
Dev: betetiro
Windows · Mac · Linux
You can't remember anything, and all you can see is HER. Delve into your story and uncover the truth behind what happened to you and your parents.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.5%, Adventure 13.7%, Choose Your Own Adventure 13%, Text-Based 11.3%, Horror 9%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological horror experience that captures the surreal and unsettling nature of the seed game's world.
- #25 Perceptions of the Dead
82% matchVery Positive92% of 336 reviews2017
Dev: Ithaqua Labs
Windows · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 8.1 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Follow three stories set in a world where the dead linger, and things far worse wait beyond the veil.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.3%, Adventure 21.3%, Casual 15.1%, Horror 12.3%
Why You'll Like It: An indie horror title that focuses on the investigation of supernatural phenomena.
- #26 The Case of the Golden Idol
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 11,013 reviews2022
Dev: Color Gray GamesPub: Playstack
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A new kind of detective game that allows you to think and investigate freely. Discover clues surrounding 12 strange and gruesome deaths and build your own theory. Pick your suspect, deduce the motive, unmask the awful truth.
Why similar: Mystery 37.6%, Adventure 19.5%, Choices Matter 15.6%, Story Rich 13.8%, 2D 11%
Why You'll Like It: A brilliant investigative game that requires piecing together the truth behind gruesome scenes, much like a detective-focused visual novel.
- #27 Decollate Decoration
77% matchVery Positive93% of 506 reviews2026
Dev: KANEKODOPub: KEMCO
Windows
This is a point-and-click, command-selection style adventure game where the protagonist is a girl who has become a ghost. The objective is to fulfill her desires by speaking to her beloved "him" causing poltergeists, visiting in dreams, or even cursing.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.3%, Dark Comedy 17.5%, Adventure 12.8%, Horror 12.2%, Casual 8.2%
- #28 Higurashi When They Cry Hou+
79% matchVery Positive87% of 200 reviews2023
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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 39.8%, Adventure 17.7%, Gore 14.5%, Violent 12%, Horror 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A seminal occult horror visual novel that uses a repeating time structure to unravel a deep, dark mystery.
- #29 MAMIYA
79% matchVery Positive90% of 534 reviews2021
Dev: Kenkou LandPub: Fruitbat Factory
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 88%
MAMIYA is a captivating, dark mystery visual novel in which a group of young men struggle against existential dread before the end of the world.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.7%, Horror 12%, Mystery 11.5%, Choices Matter 9.2%, Story Rich 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological horror visual novel that deals with themes of loss and the supernatural.
- #30 PARANORMASIGHT: The Mermaid's Curse
74% matchVery Positive95% of 2,698 reviews2026
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 13.9 hrsMean: 15.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Will you survive the curse together this summer? A new supernatural mystery adventure begins, telling a bittersweet story of the passions of youth featuring new locations, new legends and a new cast of characters.
Why similar: Visual Novel 24.1%, Adventure 13.5%, Gore 11.7%, Mystery 10.8%, Violent 10%
- #31 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,887 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 15.0 hrsMean: 45.8 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 49.6%, Mystery 23.8%, Horror 10.7%, Story Rich 10.2%, Adventure 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: A complex supernatural mystery that challenges the player to solve impossible crimes through deep narrative analysis.
- #32 Syutyaku Gakuen
76% matchVery Positive90% of 67 reviews2025
Dev: mokosoft
Windows
The only quality that can be measured is whether or not they possess the qualities of morbid love. As they spend their time at the school, what was once a peaceful life turns into a blood-soaked, corpse-riddled, blood-soaked day....
Why similar: Visual Novel 22.2%, Choose Your Own Adventure 19.8%, 2D Platformer 14.4%, Adventure 10.7%, Text-Based 10.7%
- #33 Train of Afterlife
81% matchMixed51% of 183 reviews2015
Dev: Zeiva Inc
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 3.4 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Train of Afterlife is a mystery, psychological, horror Visual Novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.7%, Adventure 16.4%, Casual 13.8%, Choose Your Own Adventure 11.2%, Mystery 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A ghost-themed visual novel that explores the regrets and memories of the deceased.
- #34 The Specter's Desire
76% matchVery Positive98% of 56 reviews2024
Dev: Themisian
Windows · Mac
This year's Desire Hierarchy has begun. The stakes are now deadly. Hop into The Specter's Desire, a Visual Novel in which you play against the city's top talents to save your parents. Includes puzzling gameplay that has you tearing down arguments, hatching schemes, and revealing the truth!
Why similar: Dark Comedy 20.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 20.1%, Visual Novel 19.8%, Text-Based 16.3%, Horror 7.5%
- #35 Days With Ollie
77% matchMostly Positive70% of 77 reviews2024
Dev: PT. Global Digital ArthaPub: hololive Indonesia
Windows
The day has finally come. The day that will determine on whether or not you'll be accepted as a reporter in hololive. And not just any reporter, but the exclusive reporter for Kureiji Ollie! What goes down on in the life of the zombie idol? Find out what it'll be like to spend Days with Ollie!
Why similar: Choose Your Own Adventure 24.9%, Visual Novel 24.7%, Text-Based 18.9%, Adventure 9.4%, Horror 6.3%
- #36 It was a human.
75% matchMostly Positive75% of 491 reviews2024
Dev: Loser/sPub: GAMER Plan
Windows
A short SF psychedelic interrogation ADV game that focuses on the interrogation of a suspect in a dismemberment murder case. The protagonist is a lieutenant colonel, tasked with interrogating the suspect. The protagonist needs to find out why she killed the two men and how she committed the crime.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.2%, Choose Your Own Adventure 27.7%, Adventure 12.6%, Mystery 8.4%, Horror 8%
- #37 Type-NOISE: Shonen Shojo
74% matchMostly Positive79% of 140 reviews2025
Dev: DankHeartsPub: WhisperGames
Windows
Type-NOISE: Shonen Shojo is a multi-ending mystery adventure game. A group of boys and girls who have lost their memories gather in a “Tokyo” that is both familiar and unfamiliar. They must trace their lost memories to escape the bizarre labyrinths. Are they prepared to confront their “true selves”?
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.9%, Choose Your Own Adventure 20.8%, Adventure 16.4%, Mystery 10%, Story Rich 6.8%
- #38 Trick × Trick
73% matchMostly Positive79% of 68 reviews2026
Dev: Akizuki Yume
Windows
Supernatural × Mystery × Death Game Twelve high school students awaken trapped in a mysterious building. To escape, they must identify the mastermind by vote—choose wrong, and someone is executed. Each student has a unique supernatural power. Uncover the truth and reveal the mastermind.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.8%, Text-Based 15.7%, Choose Your Own Adventure 14%, Adventure 12.4%, Mystery 12.4%
- #39 Kindaichi Mystery Series: The Honjin Murders
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 185 reviews2025
Dev: coly Inc.
Windows · Mac
Famous detective Kosuke Kindaichi's first case, the Honjin Murder Mystery. Honjin descendant Kenzo Ichiyanagi and his new wife Katsuko Kubo lay dead in a bed of blood on the night of their wedding. Kosuke Kindaichi searches for the truth about this locked room murder mystery. However...
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.6%, Choose Your Own Adventure 18.7%, Text-Based 15.4%, Mystery 12.4%, Casual 9.3%
- #40 and yet, we dream
71% matchVery Positive92% of 52 reviews2026
Dev: arda bolat
Windows · Mac · Linux
a psychological visual novel where you investigate the souls of the dead. spend time with them, analyze their past, file reports to decide their eternal fate.
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Dark Comedy 23.1%, Mystery 14.8%, Adventure 10.7%, Choices Matter 10.4%
- #41 The Death Game Report
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,217 reviews2026
Dev: shu3
Windows
Identify how every participant in the death game died, and submit your report.
Why similar: Mystery 28.1%, Adventure 22.7%, Casual 16.6%, Text-Based 16%, Story Rich 10.7%
- #42 MMM: Murder Most Misfortunate
75% matchVery Positive83% of 128 reviews2017
Dev: Michael LongPub: Foolish Mortals Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
A gruesome murder interrupts an evening party at a secluded mansion and you are the prime suspect! Explore the mansion, search for clues, and interrogate the other guests as you strive to unmask the killer in this open-ended mystery.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.7%, Adventure 26.1%, Casual 19.6%, Mystery 13.5%, Story Rich 6%
- #43 クラブ・スーサイド
72% matchVery Positive97% of 182 reviews2023
Dev: MORPATHPub: Celtia
Windows · Mac
私は、自殺を考えている。クラブ・スーサイドへようこそ。自殺を考える少年達に寄り添う、奇妙な一週間。命を思考するノベルアドベンチャー。
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 24.7%, Adventure 19%, Gore 12.3%, Violent 9%
- #44 this morning I decided to die
73% matchMostly Positive78% of 181 reviews2023
Dev: ctcPub: Nikita Kryukov
Windows · Mac · Linux
Follow a girl through the last day of her life.
Why similar: Visual Novel 68.7%, Violent 18.5%, Casual 11%, Singleplayer 1.7%
- #45 My Head On Your Body
72% matchMostly Positive74% of 50 reviews2024
Dev: Creepy Pop
Windows · Mac · Linux
You've moved to a new house where the previous owner was murdered. They never found his head. But, it has found you.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.3%, Text-Based 27%, Horror 14.5%, Adventure 14.3%, Casual 5.1%
- #46 Drowning Song of the Stagnant Sea
69% matchPositive89% of 73 reviews2026
Dev: 空想の工房Pub: Waku Waku Games
Windows
A dark fairy tale set in the deep sea. The fated encounter between a sea monster and a human forever changes their lives in this visual novel. Contains platonic yuri.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25%, Adventure 16.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 15.5%, 2D Platformer 13%, Text-Based 11.5%
- #47 Graces: Posthumous Wish
69% matchVery Positive94% of 212 reviews2024
Dev: TomoToro
Windows
Aki is haunted by a curse. In search of salvation, she travels into the memories of a dead classmate, where she must witness three eerie mystical stories and figure out how to break the shackles of misfortune.
Why similar: Visual Novel 28.8%, Text-Based 16.5%, Mystery 11.5%, Adventure 11.3%, 2D Platformer 8.6%
- #48 Memory Girl +
69% matchVery Positive97% of 72 reviews2025
Dev: cream△Pub: Champloo Games
Windows
A tragic love story following Memori and her search for the missing "him."
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.8%, Choose Your Own Adventure 22.4%, Horror 10.4%, Mystery 9.4%, Adventure 7.5%
- #49 Suhoshin
70% matchVery Positive90% of 175 reviews2022
Dev: No More 500
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Suhoshin is a 2D Visual Novel set in the medieval Joseon period of Korea. While investigating a series of mysterious murders, you will have to make choices that will lead you down different paths toward different endings.
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.9%, Text-Based 17.2%, Choose Your Own Adventure 13.5%, Mystery 12.3%, Adventure 9.2%
- #50 After School Murder Club!!
71% matchVery Positive86% of 98 reviews2021
Dev: Rabbit, Deer, You
Windows
In this short comedy visual novel, you're an unpopular transfer student who begins a new life at a Japanese high school. You quickly get drafted into the school's most secret after-school club... but could it be that the seemingly innocent members of the Murder Club are hiding a dark secret?!
Why similar: Dark Comedy 25.3%, Visual Novel 25.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 24.4%, Choices Matter 8.3%, Horror 7.2%
- #51 The Zodiac Trial
70% matchVery Positive95% of 151 reviews2021
Dev: Themisian
Windows · Mac
The Zodiac Trial has begun, and everybody's life is on the line! Will these 12 jurors be able to solve the mysteries and cooperate, or will they resort to betrayal, deception, and violence? Get out alive or die, die again!
Why similar: Dark Comedy 21.4%, Visual Novel 20%, Choose Your Own Adventure 19.4%, Text-Based 17.3%, Horror 8.6%
- #52 Spirit Hunter: Death Mark
70% matchVery Positive83% of 533 reviews2019
Dev: EXPERIENCEPub: Aksys Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
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 40.2%, Adventure 21.5%, Horror 19.3%, Violent 19%
- #53 The NOexistenceN of you AND me
64% matchVery Positive93% of 22,293 reviews2024
Dev: 0x0Real StudioPub: Nino Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 18.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Use "game" as a medium to showcase the world of "you/girl". Explore the truth of "you/girl/world" through the form of a "visual novel".
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.8%, Choose Your Own Adventure 16.2%, Story Rich 9.4%, Adventure 7%, 2D 4.2%
- #54 outside the door
66% matchVery Positive94% of 776 reviews2024
Dev: basandaika games
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Outside the door is a mystic visual novel set within one office. You are about to figure out the stories of a few visitors without having a single memory of yourself.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.7%, Text-Based 15.4%, Mystery 10%, Casual 9.4%, Violent 8.4%
- #55 MOOD
66% matchVery Positive86% of 487 reviews2025
Dev: MAT Affect
Windows
MOOD is a short visual novel combining horror, dark humor, and dialogues on a wide variety of topics, from old movies to ancient wars. You were the one who summoned your new companion, there is no backing out now!
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.4%, Horror 15%, Casual 12.3%, Choices Matter 11.9%, Adventure 10.4%
- #56 Curse or Love
65% matchVery Positive91% of 93 reviews2026
Dev: 小橘子糖_official
Windows
A Denpa Bishoujo Psychological Horror Curio: A Visual Novel ❦ Mild Horror, Mild Suspense, and a Hint of Whimsical Madness ❦ We Hope You Find Your Own "Happy Ending" Among Multiple Conclusions ❦ A Major Plot Twist, Perhaps? ❦ Glimpse a sliver of truth in the liminal space between life and death.
Why similar: Visual Novel 50.4%, 2D Platformer 24.3%, Casual 12.9%, Mystery 11.7%, Singleplayer 0.8%
- #57 Cooking Companions
67% matchVery Positive94% of 1,212 reviews2021
Dev: Deer Dream StudiosPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Unravel the mystery in this cute psychological horror VN, set deep in the woods of the Tatras Mountains. Will you wind up on the chopping block?
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.3%, Choose Your Own Adventure 22.1%, Mystery 12.6%, Horror 12%, Adventure 9.8%
- #58 Case 03: True Cannibal Boy
67% matchVery Positive97% of 60 reviews2023
Dev: Sounding Stone / 老奉毊
Windows
A horror mystery adventure game with ghost story elements. Anxiety plagues college student Lily, whose crush Sally has gone missing. As Lily explores the truth, Sally's boyfriend starts to look increasingly suspicious. Even worse, the story of the Cannibal Boy seems to be involved somehow...
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Horror 12.2%, Mystery 12%, Choices Matter 11%, Adventure 8.1%
- #59 DEAD LAMB WALKING
66% matchVery Positive96% of 204 reviews2024
Dev: Lyn Mametchi
Windows
A story about a dead lamb walking.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.2%, Horror 18.4%, Choices Matter 13%, 2D 8.9%, Story Rich 7.1%
- #60 CAFE 0 ~The Drowned Mermaid~
71% matchMixed64% of 178 reviews2015
Dev: ROSEVERTE MYSTERYPub: ROSEVERTE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 96%
What will you do if you can redo the last 7 days before you died? Try this unique supernatural mystery visual novel!
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.5%, Adventure 14.7%, Casual 11%, Horror 9.6%, Mystery 8.5%
