- #1 Raging Loop
97% 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 56.4%, Adventure 17.3%, Anime 9.9%, Story Rich 7.2%, Horror 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features a gripping time-loop mechanic where the protagonist must relive events to uncover the truth behind a mysterious village ritual.
- #2 Summer Pockets
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 4,789 reviews2020
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 10.3 hrsMean: 137.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
From the creators of Angel Beats! and CLANNAD, Key, comes their latest emotional, award-winning journey. Follow protagonist Takahara Hairi as he travels to the secluded island Torishirojima, where he rediscovers what it means to enjoy summer vacation.
Why similar: Visual Novel 29.8%, Adventure 12.4%, Dating Sim 11%, Anime 11%, Casual 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: Developed by the same studio, this title perfectly captures the nostalgic summer atmosphere and emotional depth found in LOOPERS.
- #3 ATRI -My Dear Moments-
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 22,459 reviews2020
Dev: FrontwingPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 7.0 hrsMean: 106.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"As the world sank, I found you." In the near future, a sudden and unexplained sea rise has left much of human civilization underwater. In a little town slowly being enveloped by the ocean, an unforgettable summer is about to begin for a boy and a mysterious robot girl...
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.4%, Dating Sim 16.9%, Anime 13.6%, Romance 11.1%, Emotional 6%
Why You'll Like It: A short, emotionally impactful visual novel from the same creative team that balances lighthearted moments with a touching narrative.
- #4 STEINS;GATE
95% 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 47.6%, Anime 22.3%, Story Rich 8.1%, Romance 6.9%, Dating Sim 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A seminal visual novel that explores the consequences of time manipulation with a similar blend of sci-fi mystery and character development.
- #5 GINKA
94% matchVery Positive91% of 2,764 reviews2023
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 41.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
"Return to that summer with you..." Ryusei returns to the small island of his younger years, where time flows by gently, to spend a fairy-tale summer vacation with his childhood friend who was spirited away.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.8%, Anime 12.8%, Dating Sim 11.9%, Emotional 9.6%, Romance 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully illustrated visual novel that focuses on emotional connection and the mysteries of a small town.
- #6 CLANNAD
94% 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 33.3%, Anime 16.1%, Dating Sim 11.8%, Romance 11.5%, Drama 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic Key visual novel that serves as the gold standard for the emotional drama and character-focused storytelling present in LOOPERS.
- #7 LUNARiA -Virtualized Moonchild-
93% matchVery Positive95% of 172 reviews2024
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Genius gamer T-Bit rakes in the prize money in VR races day after day. One day, after experiencing a network error mid-race, he ends up in Lunar World, a moon-based server. There, he meets an AI avatar by the name of Lunar-Q. A love story spanning the 384,400 km between the Earth and moon begins!
Why similar: Visual Novel 19.5%, Dating Sim 18.3%, Simulation 13.2%, Anime 11%, Adventure 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, poignant story about an unlikely connection that mirrors the emotional core of Key's shorter visual novel projects.
- #8 Rewrite+
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 669 reviews2021
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 60.5 hrs≥1hr: 78%
In this city built upon the ideal coexistence of civilization and the environment, Tennouji Kotarou spends his days with his friends, Kanbe Kotori and Yoshino Haruhiko. In this peaceful city, a tumultuous event shakes the foundations of Kazamatsuri once a year.
Why similar: Visual Novel 20.5%, Dating Sim 13.8%, Choose Your Own Adventure 11.8%, Anime 11.8%, Simulation 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: An expansive adventure visual novel from Key that features supernatural mysteries and a strong sense of discovery.
- #9 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
91% 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 53.3%, Anime 17.7%, Adventure 10.4%, Story Rich 10.1%, Horror 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Combines intense time-loop mystery with puzzle-solving elements that keep the player constantly questioning reality.
- #10 Little Busters! English Edition
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,092 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 42.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Capturing the hearts of countless fans since 2007, Little Busters! is an emotional visual novel from Key, the minds behind Angel Beats! and CLANNAD. This special English release supports touch controls and dynamic switching between English and Japanese text, and is in HD for the first time on PC.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.7%, Anime 12.2%, Simulation 11%, Dating Sim 8.7%, Adventure 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the bonds of friendship during summer vacation, mirroring the camaraderie and lighthearted tone of the early chapters of LOOPERS.
- #11 GNOSIA
89% matchVery Positive94% of 4,733 reviews2022
Dev: Petit DepottoPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 15.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 38.9%, Anime 22.2%, Simulation 16.1%, Adventure 12.9%, Story Rich 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A unique social deduction game that utilizes a time-loop structure to reveal deep character backstories and complex narrative threads.
- #12 Making*Lovers
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 652 reviews2020
Dev: SmeePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 38.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Making*Lovers A story about the way love can bloom after dating begins. The focus in Making*Lovers is on the things that come after a relationship's beginning. With "start dating, then fall in love" as the concept, you will work towards the moment when love truly blooms.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.9%, Simulation 20.3%, Dating Sim 19.3%, Casual 12.3%, Anime 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: A lighthearted, character-focused visual novel that captures the casual, romantic side of the summer vacation experience.
- #13 Symphonic Rain
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,136 reviews2017
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 33.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
The reborn HD edition, Remastered by Siro! Set in Piova, the city of music and endless rain. Guide Chris Vertin on the path to become a master musician in a harmonious fusion of Visual Novel and Music-based gameplay.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.4%, Dating Sim 14.9%, Anime 13.9%, Romance 11.1%, Drama 10%
Why You'll Like It: A music-themed visual novel that emphasizes emotional storytelling and the impact of choices on the protagonist's future.
- #14 Tamayura Mirai
87% matchVery Positive94% of 200 reviews2023
Dev: AzuritePub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 43.1 hrs≥1hr: 72%
There is a girl, searching for something she lost... Tamayura Mirai is a midsummer fantasy visual novel of humans, spirits, and sorcerers that's won several industry awards in Japan.
Why similar: Visual Novel 18.6%, Dating Sim 17.4%, Anime 11.2%, Choose Your Own Adventure 9.7%, Romance 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A charming and cute visual novel that offers a relaxing, adventure-filled experience similar to the lighter moments in LOOPERS.
- #15 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,215 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 57.3%, Anime 25.4%, Story Rich 7.4%, Adventure 7.1%, Casual 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: Uses a time-loop framework to build a terrifying and intricate mystery set in a seemingly peaceful rural town.
- #16 9-nine-:Episode 1
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,894 reviews2019
Dev: PALETTEPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 7.2 hrsMean: 145.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Help Miyako and Kakeru track down a superpowered serial killer before they strike again.
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.7%, Anime 23.6%, Simulation 9.5%, Casual 9.2%, Story Rich 4%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery visual novel that features a high-school setting and a fast-paced, engaging plot.
- #17 Hira Hira Hihiru
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 860 reviews2023
Dev: BA-KUPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 69%
"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 32.7%, Choose Your Own Adventure 17%, Adventure 16.2%, Casual 13.8%, Drama 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-heavy visual novel that explores themes of life and death through a unique, choice-based adventure structure.
- #18 Fureraba ~Friend to Lover~
84% matchVery Positive98% of 387 reviews2018
Dev: SmeePub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 16.7 hrsMean: 66.5 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Springtime. The season of the cherry blossoms, and a time of new beginnings, new encounters, and new people. For Aoba Kyousuke, this new season marks the start of his second year in high school, and also the year he resolved himself to finally fulfill his long-cherished dream: finding a girlfriend.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.9%, Dating Sim 18.8%, Anime 12.8%, Simulation 10.5%, Romance 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the social and romantic aspects of high school life with a polished, anime-inspired aesthetic.
- #19 Sentimental Death Loop
85% matchMixed65% of 182 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 35.4%, Choose Your Own Adventure 22.3%, Adventure 17.7%, Anime 16.8%, Horror 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A darker take on the time-loop genre that emphasizes survival and psychological tension.
- #20 Clover Day's Plus
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 882 reviews2023
Dev: ALcotPub: HIKARI FIELD
Windows
Median: 10.6 hrsMean: 68.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Bottled-up emotions... An everlasting oath... Heartfelt desires... An enduring regret... And a childhood promise. Yuuto was abandoned by his parents and raised in an orphanage in Britain before a trading merchant by the name of Takakura Yoshiomi adopted him and brought him to Japan.
Why similar: Visual Novel 18.9%, Dating Sim 17.7%, Drama 10.3%, Romance 10.3%, Anime 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel that balances romance and drama within a high-school setting.
- #21 Café Stella and the Reaper's Butterflies
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 6,560 reviews2022
Dev: YUZUSOFTPub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 19.1 hrsMean: 175.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Takamine Kousei was living a carefree college life until, one day, he tragically died in an accident. But then, the bizarre happened: Takamine Kousei opened his eyes again. And what's more, when he woke up, it was the morning of the very day, he had died.
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.1%, Romance 19.6%, Anime 13.1%, Casual 6.5%, Story Rich 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural-tinged romance visual novel that features high production values and engaging character interactions.
- #22 CROSS†CHANNEL: Steam Edition
82% 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 34.4%, Simulation 18.4%, Anime 16.1%, Adventure 13.1%, Casual 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological visual novel that uses a time-loop to explore the isolation and complex motivations of its protagonist.
- #23 Amazing Grace -What color is your attribute?-
80% matchVery Positive94% of 146 reviews2024
Dev: Cabbage SoftPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 57.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
“A holy night with no dawn, my dear...” You awaken in a strange town full of art, blanketed in snow, and enclosed by a massive wall. On Christmas, it all burns down—and the girl who loves it most rewinds time to the start of Advent. Find the truth in the loop and paint it on this canvas of a town!
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.4%, Emotional 12.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 12%, Anime 11.2%, Drama 10%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric and emotional visual novel that rewards players for exploring its multiple branching paths.
- #24 Loop8: Summer of Gods
83% matchMixed48% of 124 reviews2023
Dev: Marvelous Inc.Pub: XSEED Games
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Your choices shape the world in this coming-of-age RPG. As a new arrival in a 1980s rural Japanese town with a mysterious ability to loop time, your every decision and relationship will affect the outcome of battles against the invading Kegai.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33%, Anime 23%, Dating Sim 20.8%, Drama 11.1%, Story Rich 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: An RPG that centers on a time-loop mechanic during a summer vacation, forcing players to manage relationships and combat.
- #25 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
82% 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 54.8%, Anime 22%, Adventure 11.4%, Story Rich 7%, Horror 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A complex, choice-driven thriller that uses time-based narrative shifts to unravel a massive conspiracy.
- #26 HARMONIC REFLECTIONS
79% matchVery Positive91% of 63 reviews2025
Dev: Laplacian
Windows
A boy who can no longer hear the piano, living in the shadow of his gifted younger brother; a karate girl who is more than a friend but not yet a lover; and a girl with future memories. As past and future entwine, where will this triangle lead in this fleeting, bittersweet summer love story?
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.8%, Adventure 15.1%, Casual 12.1%, Emotional 11.4%, Dating Sim 10.5%
- #27 KamiYaba: Destiny on a Dicey Deadline
79% matchVery Positive92% of 377 reviews2022
Dev: HULOTTEPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 59.2 hrs≥1hr: 69%
“If you don't tie the knot with the person of your dreams within the next year, you'll be in big trouble.” So forewarns Urara, the self-proclaimed Goddess of Matchmaking... kicking off a rowdy rom-com adventure!
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.8%, Dating Sim 29.1%, Comedy 14.2%, Emotional 10.4%, Choose Your Own Adventure 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A comedy-heavy visual novel that uses a time-sensitive premise to create chaotic and entertaining scenarios.
- #28 The 257th Element
78% matchVery Positive95% of 56 reviews2024
Dev: REAL co.Ltd
Windows · Linux
In 2032, Tokyo scientists unveil Araraginium, the 257th element, capable of materializing matter and bringing back the deceased as Araragi Humans. Masakazu Tokimune, a Japanese high school student, grapples with daily life's blend of humor, intrigue, and love.
Why similar: Visual Novel 21.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 14.6%, Anime 11.8%, Adventure 10.9%, Dating Sim 10.6%
- #29 STEINS;GATE ELITE
78% matchVery Positive90% of 1,627 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 272.4 hrs≥1hr: 66%
STEINS;GATE ELITE follows a rag-tag band of tech-savvy young students who discover the means of changing the past via e-mail using a modified microwave.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.4%, Anime 25.7%, Adventure 9.8%, Story Rich 6.1%, Romance 6.1%
- #30 Sisters: Last Day of Summer
77% matchVery Positive85% of 408 reviews2024
Dev: JellyfishPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 93%
A fully-animated visual novel about a boy who wakes up in an unknown house with two beautiful sisters, their mother, and an unspoken truth.
Why similar: Visual Novel 18.7%, Dating Sim 16.9%, Anime 11.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 10.8%, Drama 10.3%
- #31 Liminal Border Part I
76% matchVery Positive91% of 124 reviews2023
Dev: Purple SoftwarePub: Shiravune
Windows
First game of a four-part visual novel series. Nerdy Itsuki Ninomae accidentally creates a “digital hypnotism movie.” Showing it to his neighbor causes him to learn her and a classmate’s dark secret, dragging him into the underbelly of society.
Why similar: Visual Novel 21.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 12.6%, Romance 11.6%, Dating Sim 10.5%, Anime 9.9%
- #32 Sister's Curriculum
75% matchVery Positive98% of 145 reviews2024
Dev: WAZAZAK
Windows
The Story of Tutoring Top 1% Repeat Students Sisters
Why similar: Visual Novel 26.5%, Simulation 25.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 16.4%, Anime 12.2%, Drama 8.8%
- #33 ef - the first tale. (All Ages)
77% matchVery Positive96% of 189 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 286.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
What starts with a conversation between two long lost friends spills out into a captivating visual novel about four youths struggling to pursue their dreams and find their place in the world as love complicates everything.
Why similar: Visual Novel 24.8%, Drama 14.6%, Romance 12.3%, Emotional 11.8%, Anime 10.9%
- #34 Complex Loop
76% matchVery Positive92% of 65 reviews2023
Dev: あみそ組
Windows
Complex Loop is a sci-fi themed visual novel. This is a story of time loops between past and future. Within a time limit of 20 minutes, your mission is to save a mysterious girl died from an explosion accident one year ago. Solve puzzles and reveal the truth behind the tragedy. An adventure awaits!
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.9%, Choose Your Own Adventure 22.4%, Anime 18.4%, Simulation 15.1%, Adventure 13.2%
- #35 Shanghai Summer
74% matchVery Positive91% of 444 reviews2024
Dev: FUTU StudioPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows
Shanghai Summer is an adventure game set in the millennium. Our protagonist, Baichuan, goes through a series of "anomalies" over the length of twelve days. In his pursuit of the truth, he found that his hopes and regrets from the past finally seem to converge. Will he be able to "fix" it for good?
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.1%, Dating Sim 23.2%, Anime 15.3%, Romance 11%, Drama 10%
- #36 My Summer Adventure: Memories of Another Life — Day 1
75% matchVery Positive92% of 52 reviews2023
Dev: AlkinoyPub: 101XP
Windows · Mac · Linux
A strange incident turns the life of an ordinary young man upside down when, having fallen asleep on a regular train commute, he wakes up in another country... in a body of a Japanese student! An unforgettable summer adventure awaits, promising many fateful meetings and momentous occasions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 24%, Anime 14.3%, Drama 13.2%, Romance 12.4%, Simulation 12%
- #37 Ever 17 - The Out of Infinity
73% matchVery Positive84% of 187 reviews2025
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
To the promise we once made and the place we must return
Why similar: Visual Novel 39%, Adventure 22.2%, Anime 18.9%, Romance 15.2%, Story Rich 3.9%
- #38 My Summer Adventure: Memories of Another Life
73% matchVery Positive91% of 132 reviews2023
Dev: AlkinoyPub: 101XP
Windows · Mac · Linux
A strange incident turns the life of an ordinary young man upside down when, having fallen asleep on a regular train commute, he wakes up in another country... in a body of a Japanese student! An unforgettable summer adventure awaits, promising many fateful meetings and momentous occasions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.6%, Anime 14.4%, Drama 14%, Romance 12.7%, Emotional 11.3%
- #39 ChronoClock
74% matchVery Positive93% of 168 reviews2017
Dev: Purple SoftwarePub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 314.4 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Next in line to manage a multi-million dollar corporation is our protagonist, Rei Sawatari. He inherited one very important heirloom from his late grandfather: a single pocket watch that grants him a mysterious power— The power to go five minutes back in time.
Why similar: Dating Sim 27.4%, Visual Novel 25.4%, Romance 12.6%, Anime 12.3%, Casual 9.5%
- #40 TEST TEST TEST
71% matchVery Positive92% of 991 reviews2024
Dev: MojikenPub: Toge Productions
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 1.8 hrs≥1hr: 47%
Escape a time loop as an overworked office employee by solving cryptic puzzles with alternate reality game elements.
Why similar: Anime 74%, Story Rich 26%
- #41 Soul Mates
69% matchVery Positive99% of 82 reviews2025
Dev: Sad Panda Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
You’re trapped inside a haunted house, stalked by angry ghosts. To survive, you’ll have to run, hide, strategize, give gifts, chat, flirt… Wait, what kind of game is this? Oh right, it’s a point-and-click survival horror dating sim!
Why similar: Dating Sim 18.7%, Simulation 17.6%, Visual Novel 12.4%, Adventure 11.8%, Anime 9.4%
- #42 Extra Case: My Girlfriend's Secrets
72% matchVery Positive86% of 173 reviews2022
Dev: Sounding Stone / 老奉毊
Windows
Your girlfriend seems to be hiding something. Will you respect her privacy or pry into her secrets? Don't worry, though. This is a horror dating sim with a time loop, so you can try again...and again...and again...
Why similar: Dating Sim 24%, Visual Novel 22.3%, Anime 9.6%, Drama 9.2%, Horror 8.4%
- #43 Lucy -The Eternity She Wished For-
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 8,175 reviews2016
Dev: Modern Visual Arts Laboratory
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 38.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If there was a robot that could laugh, cry and smile. ...Does it have a soul?
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.5%, Dating Sim 17.4%, Anime 16.1%, Romance 9%, Drama 7.5%
- #44 Emily is Away <3
70% matchVery Positive91% of 6,586 reviews2021
Dev: Kyle Seeley
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Emily <3 is a brand new story set on an old-new social media. Customize your facenook profile, send some friend requests and determine the outcome of your senior year.
Why similar: Dating Sim 21.2%, Visual Novel 16.4%, Simulation 14.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 10.5%, Emotional 8.8%
- #45 A Warmer Shade of Summer
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 117 reviews2021
Dev: 52.6 Productions
Windows
You return to the family farm to find it in disrepair. Maybe you have what it takes to bring it back to its former glory? Who knows who you'll meet on you're way? An old friend? That special someone? Anything is possible in Summerset.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.5%, Dating Sim 25.2%, Casual 16.6%, Anime 14.8%, Romance 11.8%
- #46 Date Z
71% matchMixed68% of 69 reviews2024
Dev: Mass CreationPub: We Dig Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
"Date Z" - a captivating mix of high school drama, romance, and mystery. As a transfer student, your challenge is to navigate relationships and secure a date by Friday to survive a deadly virus outbreak. Unravel the hidden secrets. Every choice you make counts.
Why similar: Visual Novel 19.3%, Dating Sim 18.6%, Simulation 12.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 12.5%, Romance 9.6%
- #47 Trinoline All Ages Version
72% matchVery Positive89% of 153 reviews2019
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 26.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
When tragedy sparks the advancement of science, a sentient android is created. Now, in this heart-wrenching, romantic, and beautiful visual novel, you will explore whether or not it's possible for man and machine to truly love each other.
Why similar: Visual Novel 22%, Dating Sim 16.1%, Anime 13.2%, Drama 12.4%, Romance 10.2%
- #48 ANONYMOUS;CODE
70% matchMostly Positive80% of 513 reviews2023
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Hack Into God
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.8%, Adventure 25.9%, Anime 23%, Story Rich 6%, Singleplayer 1.3%
- #49 Love starts again
70% matchMostly Positive76% of 66 reviews2025
Dev: WWWave Corporation
Windows
A live-action romance adventure with high-definition images from a first-person perspective. A love drama begins with a friend, a childhood friend, a junior from high school, a senior at a part-time job, an influencer you like, and a student you saved from a delinquent...
Why similar: Dating Sim 25.4%, Choose Your Own Adventure 19.6%, Adventure 12%, Romance 11.9%, Drama 11.7%
- #50 春待ちトロイダル
69% matchVery Positive94% of 71 reviews2023
Dev: さめさめサメーション
Windows
「春待ちトロイダル」は高校生活を再体験する、ループ型選択形式アドベンチャーゲームです。 クラスメイト達と対話を行い関係性を深めることでストーリーを進め、謎を解き明かします。 なぜ主人公はここに呼ばれたのか、この島で何が起きているのか。 あなたの手で、全てを解き明かしてください。
Why similar: Visual Novel 26%, Choose Your Own Adventure 24.3%, Anime 17.1%, Simulation 14%, Adventure 11%
- #51 PockeDate! - Pocket Dating Simulator
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 2,324 reviews2024
Dev: TERNOX
Windows
Your Pocket-Sized Dating Simulator! Every launch brings a new date with unique dialogues! Spend endless hours with your adorable, love-struck virtual girlfriend.
Why similar: Visual Novel 26%, Dating Sim 24.6%, Horror 10.8%, Simulation 10.7%, Romance 10.1%
- #52 start;again
69% matchVery Positive95% of 179 reviews2022
Dev: Two and a Half Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
A BL/yaoi mystery visual novel that follows a man named Sebastian as he’s forced into a game of life-or-death, alongside three strangers. Who put him there, and more importantly… who can he trust?
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.3%, Anime 13%, Dating Sim 12.1%, Drama 11.7%, Romance 11.3%
- #53 Rue Valley
68% matchMixed65% of 1,543 reviews2025
Dev: Emotion Spark StudioPub: Owlcat Games
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Rue Valley is a narrative adventure about a man trapped in a time loop, surrounded by a colorful cast with complex emotional stories, each hiding unexpected secrets. Dealing with mental challenges, the main character must delve into the anomaly to uncover its enigmatic origins.
Why similar: Visual Novel 26.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 18%, Drama 14.6%, Emotional 13%, Adventure 11.4%
- #54 Dreamin' Her - 僕は、彼女の夢を見る。-
68% matchVery Positive98% of 232 reviews2022
Dev: LIFE0
Windows
From the creators of Seven Days and LOST:SMILE, LIFE0 presents their third game: 「Dreamin' Her」. In his dreams, the ideal girlfriend appears taking the form of his childhood friend. Is she really just a dream, or is she something more?
Why similar: Visual Novel 21.6%, Simulation 18.4%, Dating Sim 17.9%, Adventure 11.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 10.2%
- #55 Timeloop: Sink Again Beach
67% matchVery Positive91% of 357 reviews2022
Dev: Fang's Lab
Windows
A non-linear first-person action adventure in a pirate setting. A single player time travel simulation game. Unusual gaming experience.Moving in space and time, the player must understand what is happening on the island and how the main character can move away from there.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.8%, Adventure 25.4%, Comedy 22.3%, Story Rich 11.4%
- #56 Uberich: Advent Sinners
66% matchVery Positive84% of 306 reviews2025
Dev: NBDR GamesPub: XD
Windows
The world and reality of Joe collapse as a sequence of paranormal events starts in September. A mysterious girl with physical powers named Chava wants him dead, as he can be a core key for her cult to dominate the reality between worlds.
Why similar: Visual Novel 19.6%, Dating Sim 15.5%, Choose Your Own Adventure 11%, Anime 10.9%, Adventure 10%
- #57 Hookah Haze
65% matchVery Positive93% of 1,294 reviews2024
Dev: ACQUIRE Corp.Pub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 78%
It's the year 2xxx. The inexperienced Toru Sumiki lands a job managing Hookah Haze, a new hookah lounge on the outskirts of Akihabara, where they meet three eccentric girls. The story unfolds as the girls gradually open up to them, connecting through their fondness for hookah...
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.7%, Dating Sim 22.1%, Choose Your Own Adventure 14.7%, Anime 12.7%, Adventure 10.2%
- #58 REPLAY BOYS
66% matchVery Positive95% of 119 reviews2023
Dev: Split Narrative Inc.
Windows · Mac
Band emergency! This was supposed to be Hannah’s day off, but now she’s been roped into managing The Replay Boys, an up-and-coming boy band. Make choices to stoke multi-timeline romances, keep the band from killing each other, and fight a resurrected ’80s pop star ghost. Can you manage?
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.7%, Choose Your Own Adventure 24.4%, Romance 14.2%, Comedy 9.5%, Adventure 7.3%
- #59 ISLAND
67% matchVery Positive95% of 1,748 reviews2018
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 154.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Sanzenkai Setsuna awakens on the shore of isolated island Urashima with no memories of his past. Befriending three local girls, Rinne, Karen, and Sara, Setsuna's quest to discover the secrets of Urashima and how they tie into his own past - and future - begins.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33%, Anime 19%, Dating Sim 12.2%, Adventure 8.2%, Romance 7.7%
