- #1 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
97% matchVery Positive91% of 603 reviews2016
Dev: YetiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Rescue squad captain Watase Kasasagi wakes up without his memories in the middle of his most critical mission yet-- a nuclear meltdown at a research facility. In an unfamiliar place and without his years of training, he must rescue the survivors and escape...
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.7%, Anime 25.7%, Sci-fi 7.4%, Story Rich 5.7%, Adventure 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex, multi-perspective visual novel that excels in building suspense and exploring the psychological impact of a catastrophic event.
- #2 STEINS;GATE
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 26,241 reviews2016
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 67.1 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 48.5%, Anime 27%, Sci-fi 10.7%, Story Rich 6.8%, Choices Matter 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential sci-fi visual novel that masterfully explores the consequences of manipulating time and memory.
- #3 AI: The Somnium Files
96% matchVery Positive92% of 9,294 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 45.8%, Anime 29.5%, Sci-fi 8%, Story Rich 6.9%, Adventure 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a deep investigative mystery where the protagonist dives into the memories of others to solve crimes.
- #4 ANONYMOUS;CODE
95% matchMostly Positive79% of 538 reviews2023
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Hack Into God
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.1%, Anime 29.5%, Adventure 11.8%, Choices Matter 6.3%, Story Rich 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: From the creators of Steins;Gate, this title features a compelling near-future setting focused on hacking and reality-altering technology.
- #5 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
94% matchVery Positive93% of 7,226 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 21.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 51.3%, Anime 20.3%, Choices Matter 8.8%, Story Rich 8.1%, Sci-fi 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A high-stakes puzzle-adventure series that shares the intense, life-or-death atmosphere and sci-fi mystery elements of the seed game.
- #6 WORLD END ECONOMiCA episode.01
94% matchVery Positive84% of 729 reviews2014
Dev: Spicy TailsPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
From the author of Spice and Wolf, Isuna Hasekura, comes WORLD END ECONOMiCA. This is the first episode out of three part sci-fi/economic thriller visual novel set on the moon.
Why similar: Visual Novel 65.1%, Anime 28.5%, Sci-fi 3.1%, Indie 2.3%, Story Rich 1%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel set in a futuristic lunar colony that emphasizes economic and personal stakes.
- #7 2064: Read Only Memories
93% matchMostly Positive79% of 1,673 reviews2015
Dev: MidBoss, LLC.Pub: Chorus Worldwide Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
2064: Read Only Memories is a cyberpunk point-and-click adventure set in Neo-San Francisco. Team up with Turing, the world's first sapient machine, to unravel a conspiracy that threatens to shake an entire society
Why similar: Visual Novel 55.6%, Sci-fi 15.9%, Choices Matter 11.8%, Story Rich 9.7%, Adventure 7%
Why You'll Like It: A cyberpunk-inspired adventure that deals with artificial intelligence, memory, and social issues in a futuristic setting.
- #8 ROBOTICS;NOTES ELITE
92% matchVery Positive90% of 684 reviews2020
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.7 hrsMean: 38.5 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Thanks to the rising popularity of the PhoneDroid—a device which features augmented reality (A.R.)—the age of advanced technology has finally reached Tanegashima. On that island, Central Tanegashima High's "Robot Research Club" is about to have their club disbanded.
Why similar: Visual Novel 49.9%, Anime 21.2%, Adventure 11.9%, Sci-fi 11.4%, Story Rich 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A grounded sci-fi story that blends technology and character-driven drama within the Science Adventure universe.
- #9 Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER
91% matchMostly Positive72% of 218 reviews2024
Dev: MidBoss, LLC.Pub: Chorus Worldwide Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER is a story-rich adventure and the sequel to 2064: Read Only Memories. Explore the rich world with an intuitive point-and-click interface as you take on the role of a young psychic agent tasked with tracking down a mysterious antagonist hiding in people's memories.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.1%, Anime 20.1%, Sci-fi 12.6%, Choices Matter 9%, Story Rich 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A direct exploration of memory-diving mechanics that mirrors the central premise of Memory's Dogma.
- #10 CHAOS;CHILD
91% matchVery Positive93% of 3,973 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 81.1 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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 54.9%, Anime 26.5%, Sci-fi 7.9%, Story Rich 6.3%, Adventure 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, investigative mystery that challenges the player's perception of reality through a gripping narrative.
- #11 Tokyo Necro
90% matchVery Positive87% of 233 reviews2023
Dev: Nitro OriginPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 10.7 hrsMean: 28.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
The Earth has plunged into an ice age, and the cities that survive have a new threat – Necromancers; those who reanimate corpses using inexplicable biotech. Now So'un and Ethica, two badass Living Dead Stalkers, must save Tokyo in this thrilling sci-fi visual novel!
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.7%, Anime 29.3%, Adventure 10.3%, Choices Matter 7.7%, Story Rich 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A high-octane cyberpunk visual novel that combines investigation with intense, choice-driven action.
- #12 Cyanotype Daydream -The Girl Who Dreamed the World-
89% matchVery Positive88% of 787 reviews2022
Dev: Laplacian
Windows
Median: 17.0 hrsMean: 67.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Kaito wakes to find himself in a strange room, with no memories, and a taciturn girl named Yonagi by his side. Upon learning of his role, he immerses himself into three wondrous dream worlds with her. When all three stories meet a bitter end, Kaito recovers his memories, and the true story unfolds.
Why similar: Visual Novel 58.4%, Sci-fi 18.3%, Story Rich 11.1%, Adventure 8%, Casual 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: An emotional, sci-fi-infused narrative that explores deep philosophical questions about existence and memory.
- #13 GNOSIA
88% matchVery Positive94% of 4,951 reviews2022
Dev: Petit DepottoPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 7.6 hrsMean: 15.4 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 42.8%, Anime 28.8%, Sci-fi 13.5%, Story Rich 7%, Adventure 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique sci-fi social deduction game that forces players to uncover hidden truths through repeated loops and character investigation.
- #14 Hoshizora no Memoria -Wish upon a Shooting Star- HD
89% matchVery Positive93% of 392 reviews2017
Dev: FavoritePub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 22.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A Japanese love adventure game, as you follow the story of Kogasaka You, his hometown and a promise he made.
Why similar: Visual Novel 55.9%, Anime 24.3%, Adventure 7.9%, Casual 6.4%, Story Rich 5.5%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel that emphasizes emotional connections and character development within a supernatural framework.
- #15 ISLAND
87% matchVery Positive95% of 1,760 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 44.2%, Anime 30.1%, Sci-fi 7.7%, Story Rich 5.8%, Adventure 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-heavy visual novel that deals with time, isolation, and the secrets of a secluded island community.
- #16 Synergia
86% matchVery Positive87% of 807 reviews2020
Dev: Radi ArtPub: Top Hat Studios, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Synergia is a yuri thriller visual novel that takes place in a cyberpunk future, wrapped up in a beautifully unique, vibrant neon aesthetic. At the end of the world, sometimes love is the ultimate crime.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44.9%, Anime 25.7%, Sci-fi 12.6%, Choices Matter 5.8%, Story Rich 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful cyberpunk visual novel that focuses on the emotional bond between a human and an android in a dystopian future.
- #17 A Clockwork Ley-Line: The Borderline of Dusk
86% matchVery Positive92% of 83 reviews2017
Dev: Unison Shift: BlossomPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
In a mysterious school where day and night are two separate worlds, a mismatched trio work to resolve magic-related incidents. A world of magic, intrigue, mystery and the occult awaits you!
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.4%, Anime 42.9%, Adventure 8%, Story Rich 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-focused visual novel that balances supernatural elements with a compelling investigative plot.
- #18 PARQUET
84% matchVery Positive95% of 2,390 reviews2021
Dev: YUZUSOFTSOURPub: NekoNyan Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 93.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
In the near future, a technology called Brain-Machine Interface connects the brain and machines. This technology brings about a new paradigm and opens the gates to the digitization of human memory itself. From these new discoveries, "he" is born.
Why similar: Visual Novel 48.3%, Anime 30.9%, Story Rich 6.4%, Casual 5.2%, Adventure 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A concise, story-rich visual novel that explores themes of identity and technology in a near-future setting.
- #19 fault - milestone one
85% matchVery Positive92% of 3,240 reviews2014
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 29.8 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 55.8%, Anime 35.8%, Story Rich 3.7%, Adventure 2.8%, Indie 1.3%
Why You'll Like It: A cinematic sci-fi adventure that focuses on world-building and the journey of two protagonists in a strange, futuristic land.
- #20 Muv-Luv
84% matchVery Positive93% of 2,022 reviews2018
Dev: aNCHOR Inc.
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 21.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
One of the most highly-acclaimed visual novel series arrives on Steam, newly revamped and officially in English! An interdimensional love story that takes high school romance on a roller-coaster ride through the depths of despair, culminating in a sci-fi grand finale of epic proportions.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.6%, Anime 30.5%, Sci-fi 11%, Story Rich 6.5%, Casual 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: A foundational sci-fi visual novel that transitions from character-focused drama to an intense, high-stakes military conflict.
- #21 Stories from Sol: The Gun-Dog
81% matchVery Positive91% of 941 reviews2025
Dev: Space Colony StudiosPub: Astrolabe Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 65%
Survive the mystery that awaits the JFS Gun-Dog in deep space in this retro visual novel / graphic adventure.
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.4%, Anime 25.1%, Sci-fi 16.3%, Choices Matter 8.3%, Story Rich 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-styled sci-fi mystery that focuses on crew dynamics and investigation in deep space.
- #22 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 37,546 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 22.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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 51.5%, Anime 38.1%, Story Rich 7%, Adventure 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic mystery visual novel that excels at building tension through investigation and high-stakes decision-making.
- #23 The House in Fata Morgana
82% matchVery Positive95% of 6,401 reviews2016
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 26.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A gothic suspense tale set in a cursed mansion. "The House in Fata Morgana" is a full-length visual novel spanning nearly a millennium that deals in tragedy, human nature, and insanity.
Why similar: Visual Novel 48.5%, Anime 26.3%, Story Rich 7.8%, Choices Matter 7.4%, Adventure 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in mystery and atmosphere that, while gothic, shares the intense emotional depth and narrative complexity of the seed game.
- #24 VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 38,383 reviews2016
Dev: Sukeban GamesPub: Ysbryd Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 31.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action is a booze em' up about waifus, technology, and post-dystopia life.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43%, Anime 22.9%, Sci-fi 9.9%, Choices Matter 7.6%, Story Rich 7%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-driven experience that captures the atmosphere of a near-future city through the eyes of its inhabitants.
- #25 2236 A.D.
81% matchVery Positive92% of 173 reviews2018
Dev: ChloroPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac
This tale began five years earlier, in the spring of 2231. Mankind has evolved a new kind of communication ability called “telepathy”.
Why similar: Visual Novel 57.3%, Casual 14.2%, Indie 12%, Sci-fi 11.8%, Story Rich 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A short, sci-fi-themed visual novel that deals with the implications of artificial intelligence and human interaction.
- #26 SC2VN - The eSports Visual Novel
80% matchVery Positive93% of 874 reviews2015
Dev: Team Eleven
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 53%
SC2VN is a visual novel about the South Korean StarCraft 2 scene. You play as Mach, a foreign semi-pro trying to make it in eSports who soon learns that success in StarCraft takes more than in-game strategy.
Why similar: Visual Novel 56.4%, Anime 30.5%, Casual 5.5%, Indie 4.6%, Adventure 3%
Why You'll Like It: A realistic, character-driven visual novel that focuses on the pressures and personal stakes of a competitive environment.
- #27 If My Heart Had Wings
79% matchVery Positive92% of 4,619 reviews2014
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 45.9 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 44.2%, Anime 29.5%, Choices Matter 9.4%, Story Rich 7.1%, Casual 6%
Why You'll Like It: A grounded, emotional visual novel that captures the spirit of chasing dreams and overcoming personal obstacles.
- #28 Lingering Fragrance
78% matchVery Positive92% of 598 reviews2018
Dev: BLESTWORKS
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 17.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
We walk together, play together, and do everything together. This is our last trip, our last memory. It is a short visual novel contains three story lines, after main story the other two will be unlocked. Which one is your side of story?
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.8%, Anime 29.9%, Casual 8.9%, Adventure 7.8%, Indie 6.6%
- #29 My New Memories
77% matchVery Positive82% of 462 reviews2021
Dev: Killer7
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 18.0 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Memories...One of the most important things in our lives. But what happens if you forget who you are? If you don't remember anything? Then you can only hope that the people that do know who you are help you out...This is your journey...On your way to finding new memories...
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.7%, Choices Matter 11.5%, Story Rich 10.7%, Casual 6.9%, Adventure 5.8%
- #30 Go! Go! Nippon! ~My First Trip to Japan~
76% matchVery Positive86% of 3,129 reviews2014
Dev: OVERDRIVEPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 18.2 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 51.1%, Anime 44.8%, Adventure 2.1%, Casual 1.3%, Story Rich 0.7%
- #31 AMNESIA
75% matchMixed68% of 1,071 reviews2022
Dev: Super Alex
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 76%
After a series of events now shrouded in mystery, our protagonist - a young man - fell into a coma, losing all recollection of the person he used to be. He is given a clean slate. All that’s left to do now is to carefully and thoroughly investigate every facet of your former self.
Why similar: Visual Novel 69.5%, Choices Matter 11.9%, Story Rich 8.4%, Adventure 6.7%, Indie 3.6%
- #32 Highschool Possession
77% matchMixed68% of 180 reviews2015
Dev: Dharker Studios
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 24%
A visual novel game following a young man who wakes up in the body of another student... Learning his friends may not be living the perfect lives he thought they were.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.6%, Anime 28.2%, Adventure 11.5%, Indie 8.7%
- #33 神明的一天世界(God's One Day World)
75% matchVery Positive85% of 728 reviews2016
Dev: 灰烬天国
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 95%
an Visual Novel & Puzzle Game
Why similar: Visual Novel 49.3%, Anime 27.5%, Adventure 16.1%, Casual 4.1%, Indie 3.1%
- #34 Games&Girls
76% matchMostly Positive73% of 271 reviews2017
Dev: Yume Creations
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 147.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
An episodic Visual Novel about a Gamer and his life with cute girls.
Why similar: Visual Novel 50.3%, Anime 35.5%, Adventure 5.3%, Casual 5.2%, Indie 3.7%
- #35 Sakura Spirit
74% matchMostly Positive78% of 6,903 reviews2014
Dev: Winged Cloud
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 23.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Rising Judo Star Gushiken Takahiro was two weeks away from the match that would make or break his career -- a championship match where the winner is then signed up to be a young national athlete for Japan. He was very determined to win, in order to fulfill his dreams of finally representing his country for a sport he loves so much.
Why similar: Anime 52.1%, Visual Novel 45.9%, Indie 1.2%, Casual 0.8%
- #36 WAGAMAMA HIGH SPEC
73% matchVery Positive91% of 424 reviews2017
Dev: madosoftPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 207.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Narumi Kouki, our hapless protagonist, writes a risque romcom for a weekly manga magazine. Due to its content, he's kept it a secret from everyone except the two closest to him: Mihiro and Toa.
Why similar: Visual Novel 54.7%, Anime 30.4%, Casual 5.3%, Adventure 4.7%, Choices Matter 2.8%
- #37 Stellar Code
69% matchVery Positive97% of 485 reviews2025
Dev: Fragaria
Windows
Mysterious phenomena from space. A researcher's fatal accident. Cryptic codes engraved on an unknown material. Together with your brilliant sister-in-law, you must unravel a mystery that could determine the fate of Earth. A sci-fi mystery visual novel of discovery and suspense.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47%, Anime 27.9%, Sci-fi 13.8%, Adventure 9.4%, Story Rich 1.3%
- #38 KARAKARA
72% matchVery Positive91% of 1,849 reviews2016
Dev: calmePub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 53.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
KARAKARA. It is the sound of aridity. It is the sound of dry asphalt and sandy winds. It is the sound of relentless sunshine, as well as the sound of a withering race.
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.9%, Anime 38.2%, Casual 4.8%, Indie 3%
- #39 OMNIMUS
73% matchVery Positive87% of 55 reviews2019
Dev: Angry gamesPub: Total
Windows · Mac · Linux
Omnimus. Welcome to the future! A visual novel about a daring experiment.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.1%, Anime 20.9%, Adventure 15.3%, Indie 10.4%, Sci-fi 10%
- #40 Amnesia™: Memories
71% matchVery Positive92% of 4,343 reviews2015
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
You awaken to find your memories gone. To learn the truth behind your amnesia, you’ll choose from five romantic paths, each its own world. With 20+ endings, can you write the lasting love story you deserve, or will your love and life come to an end?
Why similar: Visual Novel 60.4%, Anime 28.9%, Choices Matter 4%, Adventure 3.4%, Story Rich 3.3%
- #41 Narcissu 10th Anniversary Anthology Project
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 758 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 60.2%, Anime 22%, Story Rich 6.2%, Casual 5.9%, Indie 5.7%
- #42 Malus Code
74% matchMostly Positive71% of 104 reviews2016
Dev: M2 Co.,LTDPub: Dogenzaka Lab
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Malus Code is the story of a graduate student studying abroad at a Japanese university, and the three people he meets in the laboratory there. In this unfamiliar environment, can you earn their friendship? For those who don't want a lonely, sad life.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51%, Anime 39.4%, Adventure 9.6%
- #43 eden*
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,157 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 52.1%, Anime 37.4%, Story Rich 4.6%, Adventure 3.6%, Sci-fi 2.3%
- #44 BAD END
73% 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 45.4%, Anime 31.8%, Adventure 7.7%, Story Rich 6.8%, Indie 5.7%
- #45 Ne no Kami: The Two Princess Knights of Kyoto
72% matchVery Positive88% of 192 reviews2016
Dev: Kuro Irodoru YomijiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 36.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
“Len, you are going to abandon this town... and die—today” Since her reunion with Shinonome, Len's life is thrust into an all new “reality,” and the curtain which hid the “truth” of this new world is been lifted.
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.9%, Anime 23.9%, Adventure 10.2%, Casual 8.7%, Story Rich 3.4%
- #46 VIDEOVERSE
68% matchVery Positive95% of 242 reviews2023
Dev: Kinmoku
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Relive the days of the early internet and dive into this fictional video game era, where the 'Kinmoku Shark’ gaming system and its online social network 'Videoverse' were still popular…
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.3%, Anime 18.5%, Adventure 8.6%, Choices Matter 8.5%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #47 Reclaiming the Lost
68% matchVery Positive81% of 281 reviews2024
Dev: Passion Portal
Windows · Mac · Linux
A letter from an old love reveals a secret she kept for years — something she gave up without telling him. Determined to make things right, he sets out to find what was lost. Joined by a mysterious young woman, he follows clues and buried memories toward the truth he's been missing.
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.5%, Choices Matter 10.6%, Adventure 9.8%, Story Rich 9.5%, Casual 6.1%
- #48 Hira Hira Hihiru
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 932 reviews2023
Dev: BA-KUPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 11.8 hrs≥1hr: 68%
"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 54.8%, Anime 13.3%, Adventure 11.5%, Casual 9.6%, Choices Matter 8%
- #49 Club Life
71% matchVery Positive81% of 138 reviews2016
Dev: Dharker Studios
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 96%
A reclusive student is forced into joining several clubs, can he make it through the year and will he gain any new friends along the way or even find love.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.3%, Anime 25.7%, Adventure 11.2%, Casual 9.5%, Indie 8.3%
- #50 City Lights Love Bites Season 1 - The Reset
64% matchVery Positive94% of 400 reviews2026
Dev: NaughtyObaPub: NaughtyOba Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
You awaken after a mysterious reset with fragmented memories. As you enter the academy and attend orientation, you meet the first heroines of the story, begin their character routes, and uncover early clues about the hidden system behind the city.
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.3%, Anime 26.4%, Adventure 10.8%, Casual 9%, Sci-fi 6%
- #51 Sakura Santa
69% matchVery Positive85% of 653 reviews2015
Dev: Winged Cloud
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 38.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Koji is feeling a bit down. This year is the first Christmas he's spending alone. After moving away from home to attend the University of his dreams, he found his college life to be rather lonely. Feeling distraught, he wanders to his local shrine to make an offering.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.9%, Anime 43.9%, Adventure 3.8%, Casual 3.4%, Story Rich 2.1%
- #52 Idol Magical Girl Chiru Chiru Michiru Part 1
70% matchVery Positive88% of 196 reviews2015
Dev: FrontwingPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Matsushima Michiru is a loved, respected, nationally-famous idol, worthy of singing on the same stage as the legendary Kazami Kazuki... in her own dreams, at least. In reality, she's a complete nobody, only able to perform in a dingy basement bar on the weekends for crowds numbering in the single digits.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.4%, Anime 33.4%, Adventure 7.3%, Casual 6%, Story Rich 5.9%
- #53 Anamnesia - part 1: am i my body?
67% matchVery Positive95% of 91 reviews2024
Dev: Simon Herbig
Windows · Mac
Sci-Fi Mystery Visual Novel. Nine people are trapped in an underground research facility, forced to play a game of life and death. Check your log to find the truth that connects those apparent strangers - if you even want to, that is.
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.8%, Anime 27.4%, Sci-fi 15.3%, Story Rich 7.1%, Adventure 3.2%
- #54 Bad Memories
67% matchVery Positive84% of 527 reviews2021
Dev: bmrec
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 18.6 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Imagine having to face old fears and buried memories, would you face them to get a better (and really naughty) life? Let's find out!
Why similar: Visual Novel 71.9%, Story Rich 7.4%, Adventure 6.7%, Choices Matter 6.2%, Indie 3.9%
- #55 Adabana Odd Tales
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,061 reviews2020
Dev: Liar-softPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 51.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
"This is a tale of 'flowers' that never bloom." Shirohime, a girl who has lost her memory, and Kurofude, a mysterious boy, traverse through classic Japanese fairy tales within the land of Adabana, a realm of illustrated books. What awaits them after they mend the distorted tales?
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.6%, Adventure 16.1%, Anime 14.5%, Casual 13.5%, Story Rich 8.2%
- #56 VIRTUAL GIRL @ WORLD’S END
65% matchVery Positive95% of 87 reviews2025
Dev: 株式会社ヘッドロックPub: Bushiroad Inc.
Windows
The story is set in future Tokyo, where human’s endless desires have consumed finite resources. In this world that is gradually approaching its end, the streamer girls continue to sing, while embracing dreams and despair in their hearts...
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.9%, Anime 25.2%, Adventure 10.4%, Casual 6.3%, Story Rich 6.3%
- #57 Divine Slice of Life
70% matchMixed68% of 301 reviews2015
Dev: Dharker Studios
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Take on the role of Aaki, a seemingly normal if somewhat self conscious young man, whose life is turned upside down after a casual stroll through the local park. Now he has to deal with two mischievous demi-gods who insist he must marry one of them.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46%, Anime 29.5%, Adventure 8.6%, Indie 8.2%, Casual 7.7%
- #58 My Furry Detective 🐾
68% matchMostly Positive80% of 122 reviews2021
Dev: Dirty Fox Games
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 10.1 hrs≥1hr: 94%
A mysterious crime that no one could solve now rests on your shoulders. Well, not just yours; you also have a partner from your department whom everyone makes fun of. But who knows—maybe she’s actually a great detective in disguise?
Why similar: Visual Novel 49.4%, Anime 27.9%, Story Rich 7.9%, Casual 6.7%, Adventure 5.3%