- #1 Methods: The Detective Competition
97% matchVery Positive91% of 717 reviews2020
Dev: LockedOn GamesPub: Erabit
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
One hundred detectives compete against each other in a crime-solving competition.
Why similar: Investigation 13.2%, Detective 11.4%, Crime 11%, Dark Humor 8.9%, LGBTQ+ 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: This is the direct prequel to the seed game, sharing the same core mechanics and eccentric cast of characters.
- #2 Methods: The Illusion Murders
96% matchVery Positive89% of 97 reviews2024
Dev: LockedOn GamesPub: Erabit
Windows · Mac · Linux
Detective Red July must stop a serial killer who patterns his murders after optical illusions in this mystery visual novel set in the world of Methods.
Why similar: Crime 12.6%, Detective 12.2%, Investigation 11.4%, LGBTQ+ 9.5%, Interactive Fiction 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: As the sequel in the series, it continues the established gameplay loop of refuting faulty theories and solving complex crimes.
- #3 Ace Attorney Investigations Collection
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 4,457 reviews2024
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 30.7 hrsMean: 34.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Miles Edgeworth's dramatic turnabouts take center stage! Experience both Ace Attorney Investigations games in one gorgeous collection! Investigate crime scenes and solve tough, intriguing cases through logic and deduction. When Edgeworth's past and present collide, his future begins!
Why similar: Investigation 27%, Crime 21.8%, Detective 18.7%, Visual Novel 11%, Story Rich 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: This collection offers the gold standard for logic-based investigation gameplay and character-driven courtroom-style deduction.
- #4 Murder by Numbers
95% matchVery Positive84% of 1,662 reviews2020
Dev: MediatonicPub: The Irregular Corporation
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Solve Pixel Puzzles to find clues. Use those clues to interrogate witnesses. Work your way to the truth... ...and uncover the mystery of Murder by Numbers!
Why similar: Investigation 16.1%, Detective 12.6%, Crime 12.1%, Comic Book 11.5%, LGBTQ+ 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: It blends visual novel storytelling with satisfying puzzle-solving mechanics to uncover the truth behind various crimes.
- #5 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 36,871 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 22.9 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: Detective 33.7%, Visual Novel 19.8%, Anime 14.8%, Dark Humor 10.7%, Story Rich 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly captures the 'competitive mystery' vibe where characters must solve murders within a high-stakes, stylized environment.
- #6 Paper Perjury
94% matchVery Positive89% of 201 reviews2024
Dev: Paper Cat Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
It all started with a simple robbery. When that thread was pulled, a tapestry of mysteries was revealed. Solve cases and outsmart criminals in a detective story full of lies, confessions, and maybe even a murder or two.
Why similar: Detective 26%, Crime 16%, Investigation 14.4%, Visual Novel 13.4%, Puzzle 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game focuses on investigative logic and courtroom refutations with a charming, approachable visual style.
- #7 Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority-
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 4,059 reviews2023
Dev: NankidaiPub: 0UP GAMES
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 13.8 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: Comic Book 29.2%, Interactive Fiction 28%, Anime 14.9%, Story Rich 11.5%, 2D 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: This game features a tense, competitive atmosphere where characters must use logic and evidence to survive a deadly game.
- #8 Aviary Attorney
92% matchVery Positive95% of 2,262 reviews2015
Dev: Sketchy Logic
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
The hottest bird lawyering game to come out of 1840s France! Join Jayjay Falcon and his witty apprentice, Sparrowson, as the two take on clients, interview witnesses, collect evidence, and deliver justice to the guilty.
Why similar: Detective 38.7%, Visual Novel 25.4%, Comedy 16.6%, Story Rich 9.8%, Adventure 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: It mirrors the comedic, lighthearted detective tone of the seed game while focusing on courtroom logic and investigation.
- #9 Detective Grimoire
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,355 reviews2014
Dev: SFB Games
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Detective Grimoire has been called to investigate a murder. The owner of a small tourist attraction, seemingly killed by the mythical creature his attraction is based around... Explore the area, inspect the crime scene, grill suspects, solve puzzles, hunt for clues & uncover the secret of the swamp!
Why similar: Detective 22%, Crime 19.2%, Investigation 17.9%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Comedy 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic point-and-click mystery that focuses on exploration and deduction with a distinct, cartoony art style.
- #10 Staffer Case: A Supernatural Mystery Adventure
90% matchVery Positive94% of 4,035 reviews2023
Dev: Team Tetrapod
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 91%
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: Detective 26.1%, Crime 21.5%, Visual Novel 10.6%, Cartoon 10.4%, Cartoony 9%
Why You'll Like It: This game provides a deep, story-rich detective experience with a unique supernatural twist on traditional investigation.
- #11 Mohism: Battle of Words
91% matchMostly Positive78% of 607 reviews2023
Dev: 玄镜工作室Pub: Yooreka Studio
Windows
Mohism: Battle of Words is a detective game set in the world of wuxia. The game follows Zhang Xiaochen, investigates unsolved cases and comes into his own as a hero. He must rely on his wits and razor-sharp tongue to best his opponents, find the culprit and ensure justice prevails!
Why similar: Detective 21.1%, Investigation 20.9%, Crime 17.5%, Visual Novel 13.2%, Anime 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on the 'refuting theories' mechanic, requiring players to use logic to win debates and solve mysteries.
- #12 Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 8,077 reviews2023
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, the classic puzzle-solving mystery adventure directed by Ace Attorney creator Shu Takumi, is back! This long-awaited HD remaster features upgraded visuals and sound and new gallery content.
Why similar: Detective 38.4%, Puzzle 14.7%, Story Rich 13.6%, Visual Novel 12%, Anime 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: This title features a unique, stylish approach to mystery-solving with a heavy emphasis on logic and character interactions.
- #13 Tangle Tower
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,076 reviews2019
Dev: SFB Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Unravel a thrilling mystery by exploring a strange and twisted mansion, discovering curious clues, interrogating peculiar suspects and solving unique puzzles. Will you be able to uncover the secrets of Tangle Tower?
Why similar: Detective 28.6%, Crime 19.9%, Investigation 11.9%, Visual Novel 11%, Comedy 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully illustrated detective game that emphasizes interviewing suspects and piecing together clues in a confined, mysterious location.
- #14 Detective Ridelle
86% matchVery Positive99% of 88 reviews2024
Dev: PuzzLab
Windows
Detective Ridelle is a cozy murder mystery game featuring escape room style puzzles. Find clues, interrogate suspects, solve the mystery - before it's too late.
Why similar: Detective 23.4%, Investigation 21.6%, LGBTQ+ 12.4%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Comedy 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: Combines escape-room mechanics with detective work, perfect for players who enjoy solving puzzles to uncover a narrative.
- #15 Crime O'Clock
87% matchMixed69% of 505 reviews2023
Dev: Bad SeedPub: Maximum Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Crime O'Clock is a hidden objects investigation and time exploration game with a deep storyline. Investigate cases through time and evolving maps by unveiling a multi-eras linked story. Will you be observant enough to solve the mysteries? Crime waits for no man!
Why similar: Investigation 21.2%, Crime 19.2%, Detective 17.5%, Comic Book 13.9%, Comedy 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a 2D, investigation-heavy experience that tasks players with finding clues across different time periods.
- #16 SHINRAI - Broken Beyond Despair
88% matchVery Positive91% of 128 reviews2016
Dev: Gosatsu Visual Novels
Windows · Mac · Linux
A secluded mountain resort, 10 friends, 1 murderer. Investigate, interrogate and present evidence as you solve various mysteries throughout the night. Will you be able to reach the truth and uncover the culprit’s identity? Or will your deductions lead you to blame someone completely innocent...?
Why similar: Investigation 20.3%, Detective 17.8%, Crime 13%, Interactive Fiction 10.9%, LGBTQ+ 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: A strong visual novel mystery that emphasizes investigation and logical deduction in a character-rich setting.
- #17 Occult Crime Police
86% matchVery Positive93% of 164 reviews2021
Dev: Eggcorn Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
The Truth Is Pretty Out There. Only you can decipher the mystery of Boomtown USA. Comb a mysterious government base for evidence, investigate the set of a ghost hunt, and unravel the truth, no matter how ridiculous it may be!
Why similar: Detective 22.3%, Investigation 16.2%, Cartoon 11.1%, Visual Novel 10.6%, LGBTQ+ 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: A funny, supernatural-themed detective game that balances humor with the investigation of strange crimes.
- #18 Murder on the Marine Express
85% matchVery Positive94% of 78 reviews2021
Dev: 1564 Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
A mystery visual novel taking place aboard the underwater train Marine Express. Follow student Ranko Togawa on her quest to find the culprit on the murder of an accompanying teacher... with lots of surprises along the way!
Why similar: Detective 24.6%, Investigation 22.1%, Visual Novel 14.1%, Comedy 12%, Anime 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic 'whodunit' visual novel that relies on gathering evidence and interviewing suspects in a confined space.
- #19 The Case of the Worst Day Ever
82% matchVery Positive98% of 65 reviews2025
Dev: Hero Game Co LLC
Windows · Mac · Linux
A deceptively difficult deduction game about one very unfortunate family. Revisit their worst moments, form your own conclusions, and solve this silly yet challenging mystery.
Why similar: Investigation 28.5%, Detective 25.2%, Interactive Fiction 11.7%, Cartoon 9.1%, Cartoony 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A cute, investigation-focused mystery game that prioritizes puzzle-solving and lighthearted detective work.
- #20 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
84% matchVery Positive93% of 7,129 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 32.8%, Story Rich 17.8%, Puzzle 16.1%, Detective 14.1%, Anime 12.9%
Why You'll Like It: This series is a masterclass in competitive, high-stakes mystery-solving where logic is the only way to survive.
- #21 Tokyo Detectives
84% matchMixed69% of 57 reviews2021
Dev: Rincho Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Detective Game. Murder Investigation. Interrogate witnesses. Rebut with evidence.
Why similar: Investigation 25.9%, Detective 23.9%, Crime 22.3%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Anime 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: This game offers a classic anime-style detective experience with a focus on investigation and mystery-solving.
- #22 DAEMON MASQUERADE
81% matchVery Positive96% of 461 reviews2024
Dev: Callum Page
Windows · Mac · Linux
An anime-inspired supernatural detective game. Uncover the identities and powers of your adversaries using a conspiracy board full of evidence.
Why similar: Investigation 23.1%, Detective 20.8%, Comic Book 18.8%, Visual Novel 8.7%, Anime 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features a distinct comic-book art style and a focus on lore-rich investigation and mystery-solving.
- #23 Best Served Cold
80% matchVery Positive88% of 640 reviews2025
Dev: Rogueside
Windows · Mac
Can you mix a cocktail while eye-to-eye with a criminal? Find out in Best Served Cold, a murder mystery set in a bustling speakeasy where you serve customers, make friends and enemies, and solve crimes. At the Nightcap bar, prohibition is a killer… and so are some of your customers!
Why similar: Detective 25.3%, Investigation 23.5%, Visual Novel 14%, Interactive Fiction 12.8%, LGBTQ+ 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A choice-driven detective game that emphasizes conversation and logical deduction to reach the truth.
- #24 BEAST CRIMES
83% matchMixed64% of 64 reviews2022
Dev: LINK
Windows
Crimes across the times. Are you able to solve them all?
Why similar: Detective 19.8%, LGBTQ+ 15.4%, Interactive Fiction 14.4%, Investigation 12.3%, Visual Novel 12%
Why You'll Like It: An interactive fiction detective game that allows for branching paths and deep investigation into mysterious cases.
- #25 Little Locked Rooms
81% matchVery Positive89% of 139 reviews2024
Dev: riolucci
Windows · Linux
Grab your magnifying glass and peek inside a series of tiny dioramas filled with crimes and carefully crafted mysteries! Think outside the box and solve them all in this new brand of detective game!
Why similar: Detective 24.2%, Investigation 23.7%, Crime 15.2%, Visual Novel 13.2%, Anime 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel that focuses on solving mysteries within confined, atmospheric settings.
- #26 Nut City Blues
79% matchVery Positive97% of 390 reviews2023
Dev: looking4stupid
Windows
A comedy-mystery visual novel about Captain Fox, Detective Raccoon and the danger of pineapple pizza.
Why similar: Detective 24.2%, Investigation 22%, Visual Novel 13.7%, LGBTQ+ 13.6%, Comedy 13.5%
Why You'll Like It: A comedic, point-and-click detective game that captures the lighthearted, eccentric tone of the seed game.
- #27 Murders on the Yangtze River
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 20,567 reviews2024
Dev: OMEGAMES STUDIO
Windows · Mac
Median: 11.7 hrsMean: 14.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
"Murders on Yangtze River" is an Ace Attorney-like detective game that takes you on a journey through early 20th century China as you solve a series of intriguing cases. Use your logical reasoning and deduction skills to uncover clues, interrogate suspects, and solve the mysteries.
Why similar: Detective 39.1%, Investigation 24.7%, Puzzle 10.9%, Story Rich 10.7%, Adventure 5.6%
- #28 Trials of Innocence
78% matchVery Positive93% of 1,658 reviews2025
Dev: 猫龙游戏
Windows
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Trials of Innocence is an indie courtroom detective game. Step into the shoes of the main character, rookie lawyer Luna Ray, and navigate her journey through the legal world. Unravel a shocking conspiracy that changes the fate of many, including herself, and confront her inner choices.
Why similar: Detective 19.1%, Crime 17.3%, Investigation 16.2%, Interactive Fiction 12%, Visual Novel 9.9%
- #29 Detective Butler: Maiden Voyage Murder
82% matchVery Positive82% of 308 reviews2017
Dev: Goldbar Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 28%
Follow Detective Butler and his sidekick Gilligan as they solve a locked-room murder during a haunted cruise ship's maiden voyage. Can you solve the mystery before Detective Butler reveals the answer?
Why similar: Investigation 23.1%, Detective 21.3%, Crime 20.4%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Anime 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: An indie mystery title that leans heavily into the visual novel format with a focus on gathering clues and logical reasoning.
- #30 The Occult Detective
78% matchMostly Positive71% of 326 reviews2025
Dev: Battlecry Studio
Windows
A narrative detective game blended with supernatural elements. Play as a rookie investigator, discover vital clues in every case, dive into unscripted interrogations and uncover truths that break minds. But with each revelation, the world feels... less human.
Why similar: Detective 29.6%, Visual Novel 18.4%, Anime 12.7%, Story Rich 11.9%, Puzzle 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A puzzle-heavy visual novel that blends supernatural themes with traditional detective investigation.
- #31 The Real Face of a VTuber
77% matchVery Positive92% of 302 reviews2026
Dev: 莉莉恩工作室Pub: WhisperGames
Windows
A narrative courtroom adventure all about VTubers! Players will take the role of prosecutor Justin Truth and investigate a murder at a VTuber agency, doing their best to uncover the identity of both the killer and VTuber's real face.
Why similar: Detective 24%, Crime 21.6%, Visual Novel 12.5%, Comedy 11.4%, Story Rich 7.4%
- #32 Interrogation Simulator
79% matchVery Positive95% of 61 reviews2022
Dev: Otis MillerPub: Fire Cycle Games
Windows · Linux
Inspired by JCS videos and similar Interrogation analysis. Match evidence with statements. Play good cop/bad cop. Make choices. Learn what makes people tick. Unravel the mystery.
Why similar: Crime 21.5%, Investigation 20.9%, Dark Humor 13.3%, Interactive Fiction 13%, Visual Novel 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the high-pressure aspect of detective work, requiring players to use logic to break down suspects.
- #33 Misty Judgment
75% matchVery Positive94% of 1,414 reviews2025
Dev: 次元边界
Windows
This is a suspense reasoning interactive work with real people. You will play the protagonist "Qi Yi", find evidence in a series of murders, piece together the truth, and find the ultimate murderer, all of which will lead you to an unpredictable future.
Why similar: Detective 20%, Crime 17.3%, Interactive Fiction 16.8%, Investigation 16.1%, Visual Novel 11.9%
- #34 The Roottrees are Dead
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,392 reviews2025
Dev: Evil Trout Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A genealogical mystery straight out of 1998. Scour the early Internet for clues, uncover hidden connections, and piece together the family tree behind the secretive Roottree Corporation.
Why similar: Detective 32.7%, Investigation 26.9%, Puzzle 9.5%, Interactive Fiction 8.3%, Story Rich 6.6%
- #35 Feline Forensics and the Meowseum Mystery
75% matchVery Positive98% of 59 reviews2026
Dev: Nobody Crown
Windows
There's only one detective to unravel this murder turned museum heist... and they're the cat's meow. Interrogate a "colorful" cast of suspects until they cough up hairballs... and the truth. Will you wrap up the case in time for an afternoon nap, and make injustice knead its last biscuit?
Why similar: Detective 27.1%, Investigation 15.2%, Interactive Fiction 15.2%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Puzzle 7.9%
- #36 Turlock Holmes
76% matchMostly Positive80% of 937 reviews2024
Dev: Find the Lamp GamesPub: Neverland Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A detective narrative puzzler without pre-set options! Raise your questions at will, and an AI-host will answer only with 'yes' or 'no.' Drive the investigation with your curiosity; the path to solving the mystery lies in questions you ask. Can you dig out the truth through your questions?
Why similar: Crime 32.9%, Detective 29.1%, Visual Novel 10%, Puzzle 9.2%, Story Rich 7.6%
- #37 Loco Motive
74% matchVery Positive93% of 1,162 reviews2024
Dev: Robust GamesPub: Chucklefish
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
There's been a murder aboard the Reuss Express, and you're the suspects! Prove your innocence in this comedy 'point n' click' murder mystery - packed with twists, laughs, and larger-than-life characters!
Why similar: Investigation 20.8%, Crime 19%, Detective 17.5%, Cartoon 10.7%, Comedy 10.4%
- #38 Elton Manor: Requiem of the Cursed Roses
73% matchVery Positive96% of 119 reviews2026
Dev: 阿魯Pub: Playmeow
Windows
At the beginning of the 20th century, you awaken in a quiet manor where everyone calls you “Anna”, a maid. But there’s one problem — you’re actually a man. Soon after, a locked-room murder occurs, and the secrets of the manor begin to unfold.
Why similar: Detective 23.6%, Investigation 22.6%, LGBTQ+ 20.5%, Comedy 12.6%, Story Rich 6.5%
- #39 The Operator
71% matchVery Positive92% of 8,280 reviews2024
Dev: Bureau 81
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Welcome to the FDI. As our newest Operator, your role is to use your detective skills to assist our field agents and investigate mysterious crimes. Use cutting-edge FDI software to dig for clues, solve puzzles, and uncover the truth.
Why similar: Investigation 28.4%, Detective 24.8%, Crime 21.1%, Interactive Fiction 6.9%, Puzzle 6.6%
- #40 再见断刀
71% matchVery Positive93% of 2,493 reviews2025
Dev: 非侠游戏Pub: LoveStoryProject
Windows
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
古风悬疑推理AVG《再见断刀》——在与世隔绝的山庄之中,接二连三地发生了骇人命案。只有通过细致入微的调查,抽丝剥茧的推理,才能定一个是非清白,还一个天理公道。 然而,在逐渐浮出水面的真相之下,似乎还有暗流涌动……
Why similar: Detective 24.6%, Investigation 19.1%, Visual Novel 14.3%, Interactive Fiction 12%, Anime 10.3%
- #41 Death Trick: Double Blind
73% matchVery Positive87% of 275 reviews2024
Dev: Citreat StudioPub: Neon Doctrine
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
The star magician of Morgan’s Traveling Circus is missing, but the show must go on! In this non-linear detective visual novel, unravel the mystery from two different perspectives as you learn the varying stories of an entire circus of performers, each with their own lives... and their own secrets.
Why similar: Crime 18.3%, Detective 18%, Investigation 17.7%, Interactive Fiction 12.7%, Visual Novel 10.1%
- #42 Prison Notes
72% matchVery Positive96% of 51 reviews2025
Dev: 闻岚工坊(Vinland Studio)Pub: Starsea Games
Windows
Prison Notes is a RPG with text-based ADV and cultivation elements. You act as a young migrant worker, wrongly imprisoned in the prison known as "The Coral Reef".What challenges and adventures are awaiting? Will you finally find a way out? Your choices and actions will decide the end of your story.
Why similar: Comic Book 17.4%, Detective 16.7%, Dark Humor 13.5%, Crime 13.2%, Visual Novel 10.1%
- #43 AI: The Somnium Files
72% matchVery Positive92% of 9,207 reviews2019
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 15.0 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: Detective 32.3%, Visual Novel 20.8%, Anime 13.6%, Story Rich 10.8%, Comedy 9.9%
- #44 誰是犯案者 Who is the Criminal
73% matchVery Positive95% of 59 reviews2021
Dev: 莉莉恩工作室
Windows
Set in school life, “Who is the Criminal” is a text-based adventure game featuring comedian and inference elements. With inquiring suspects and debating with “evildoers”, he gathers pieces of puzzles and reveals what truly happens in every incident.
Why similar: Detective 22.8%, Crime 21.8%, Visual Novel 11.8%, Comedy 9.6%, Anime 7.8%
- #45 Cyber Manhunt 2: New World - The Hacking Simulator
69% matchVery Positive93% of 5,440 reviews2025
Dev: Aluba Van+Pub: Spiral Up Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 10.1 hrsMean: 22.5 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Discover a digital realm shrouded in mystery. Sequel to an award-winning narrative driven hacking simulator puzzle game. Play as an AI assistant in a major corporation. Deploy intricate social engineering tactics and expose hidden truths in a world of ambition and high-tech deception.
Why similar: Dark Humor 38.4%, Detective 23.8%, Story Rich 15.4%, RPG 9.3%, 2D 5.1%
- #46 LumineNight
71% matchVery Positive89% of 510 reviews2024
Dev: Spickasoft
Windows
LumineNight is a story-driven detective adventure. Play as Detective Foster and his daughter to solve a series of murders spanning a decade. Interrogate suspects, infiltrate locations, solve puzzles, and gather evidence from crime scenes. Uncover the dark truth behind these killings.
Why similar: Detective 27.7%, Investigation 17.8%, Visual Novel 12.9%, Cartoony 11.2%, Anime 9.2%
- #47 The Murder Hotel
70% matchVery Positive95% of 64 reviews2025
Dev: Wegenbartho Games
Windows
Interrogate suspects, search for clues, & uncover a dastardly plot, as you solve a string of mystifying murders to help reluctant detective Ilmarinen escape the foreboding Fafnir Hotel.
Why similar: Detective 25.4%, Crime 24.3%, Visual Novel 14.8%, Interactive Fiction 11%, Anime 9.4%
- #48 FLAM EVAW
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,480 reviews2025
Dev: 北京万合瑞晟文化传媒有限公司
Windows
In"FLAM EVAW ", you will continue to embody the community detective Maple Kurosawa, using your powerful detective and hacker skills to embark on a journey of investigation against the Rainbow Crime Organization with several female assistants of different styles.
Why similar: Detective 53.1%, Story Rich 16.6%, RPG 12.3%, Interactive Fiction 11.2%, Adventure 4.7%
- #49 Little Problems: A Cozy Detective Game
68% matchVery Positive91% of 474 reviews2025
Dev: Posh Cat StudiosPub: Amplified Games
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Little Problems is a Cozy Detective game about solving minor inconveniences, everyday misunderstandings, and of course, little problems. This game is not about saving the world; it's about enriching it, one case at a time.
Why similar: Investigation 22.1%, Detective 20.4%, Comic Book 15.9%, Interactive Fiction 10.6%, Comedy 7.2%
- #50 The Case of the Serialized Killer
70% matchVery Positive89% of 80 reviews2023
Dev: Alexis Royce
Windows · Mac
Delve into a devilishly delightful world of mysticism and mystery as Harold Ludicael, the disgraced demonologist. After the untimely demise of a famous illustrator, you’re tasked with solving their murder in this point-and-click visual novel.
Why similar: Investigation 21.3%, LGBTQ+ 16.4%, Detective 16.2%, Dark Humor 13.1%, Visual Novel 11.9%
- #51 Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 2,574 reviews2025
Dev: Happy Broccoli Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 2.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
You are the one and only Duck Detective, a depressed and recently divorced duck who must quack the case. Inspect evidence, make de-duck-tions, and solve this no-murder mystery!
Why similar: Investigation 33.5%, Detective 30.3%, Interactive Fiction 11.5%, Story Rich 5.6%, Casual 5.5%
- #52 Urban Myth Dissolution Center
66% matchVery Positive88% of 5,930 reviews2025
Dev: HakababunkoPub: SHUEISHA GAMES
Windows
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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: Detective 29.4%, Visual Novel 29.3%, Story Rich 13.7%, 2D 8.5%, Anime 7.7%
- #53 52Hertz
67% matchVery Positive88% of 110 reviews2026
Dev: Moonlit Apple
Windows
An eternally snowbound town. An inescapable time loop. A group of travelers trapped between memory and truth…You will embody Mo Shi, the amnesiac protagonist, stepping into this enigmatic town known as the "Singularity" , partner with the protagonist to solve murder cases and expose the killer.
Why similar: Detective 19.9%, Investigation 16.6%, Comic Book 14.8%, Interactive Fiction 10.1%, Visual Novel 8.3%
- #54 머준이의 사건파일 ~쌍둥이 저택의 비밀~
70% matchMostly Positive80% of 60 reviews2022
Dev: Sandbox Network, Inc.
Windows
Mystery detective with eye-catching pixel art graphics. Gather clues, solve riddles, and collect unexpected and interesting game endings!
Why similar: Investigation 29.2%, Detective 16.1%, Comedy 15.1%, Visual Novel 13%, Story Rich 6.9%
- #55 Murder at the Birch Tree Theater
66% matchVery Positive97% of 99 reviews2026
Dev: Crucible Juice Games
Windows · Mac
Uncover high drama in this whodunnit set in a small-town community theater. Gather clues by investigating the sets, casts and backstage crews of 10 theatrical productions, and piece together the story of each deadly crime.
Why similar: Crime 22.5%, Investigation 21.9%, Detective 21.1%, Cartoony 10.7%, Puzzle 8.6%
- #56 The Darkside Detective
69% matchVery Positive94% of 5,121 reviews2017
Dev: Spooky DoorwayPub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Grab your trench coat, tune your sixth sense and join the Darkside Division as they investigate the outright bizarre, the downright dangerous and the confusing cases of Twin Lakes. Flesh-hungry tentacles, mafian zombies, and the occasional missing sock are no match for The Darkside Detective.
Why similar: Detective 32.8%, Comedy 15.3%, Dark Humor 14.3%, Story Rich 10%, Cartoony 7.4%
- #57 Puzzle Spy International
65% matchVery Positive94% of 121 reviews2026
Dev: Travel-Friendly Cake
Windows · Mac · Linux
Pursue diamond thieves and a trail of cryptic puzzles in this short ‘60s spy adventure. As Agent Epsilon you’ll choose your path as you chat with (or chat up!) suspicious contacts. Deduce the puzzle rules, decode cryptograms and decipher clues as you solve wordplay & logic puzzles across the globe!
Why similar: Detective 19%, LGBTQ+ 16.4%, Investigation 12%, Crime 11.6%, Visual Novel 11.1%
- #58 The Darkside Detective: A Fumble in the Dark
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,947 reviews2021
Dev: Spooky DoorwayPub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Delouse your room with sage and pack up your travel-sized ouija board, it’s time to re-enter Twin Lakes - America’s 34th most haunted city. Join Detective McQueen as he puzzles his way through 9 chilling cases, risking life and pixelated limb to solve the macabre mysteries that plague the poor town.
Why similar: Detective 20.8%, Investigation 17.3%, Dark Humor 12.1%, Comedy 11.4%, Interactive Fiction 9.4%
- #59 Back to the Dawn
63% matchVery Positive95% of 10,038 reviews2025
Dev: Metal Head GamesPub: Spiral Up Games
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 22.3 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Back to the Dawn is a story-rich RPG set in a high-security prison ruled by factions and buried secrets. Investigate two conspiracies from the inside, gather evidence, and outsmart a system designed to silence you. Make friends (or foes) with fellow inmates and with their help, break out of prison.
Why similar: Detective 27.2%, Crime 24.1%, Investigation 20.7%, Story Rich 10.7%, RPG 10.7%