- #1 CLANNAD
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 10,614 reviews2015
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 106.2 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 53.2%, Anime 23.3%, Great Soundtrack 13.4%, Story Rich 6.4%, Emotional 2.6%
Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the gold standard for emotional visual novels, it shares the deep, character-focused drama and tear-jerking narrative style of the seed game.
- #2 Narcissu 10th Anniversary Anthology Project
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 751 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 59.1%, Anime 16.5%, Great Soundtrack 8.8%, Story Rich 6.3%, Emotional 4.2%
Why You'll Like It: This collection provides essential additional chapters and stories that expand upon the world and themes established in the original Narcissu.
- #3 The House in Fata Morgana
95% matchVery Positive95% of 6,235 reviews2016
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 27.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A gothic suspense tale set in a cursed mansion. "The House in Fata Morgana" is a full-length visual novel spanning nearly a millennium that deals in tragedy, human nature, and insanity.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.8%, Anime 19.9%, Great Soundtrack 17.7%, Story Rich 8%, Female Protagonist 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a profound, emotionally heavy narrative that explores existential themes and human suffering with a similar level of literary care.
- #4 AIR
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 659 reviews2025
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 56.3 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Summer stretches on endlessly. Beneath the vast blue sky. Beneath the air in which she awaits— AIR, the second game released by visual novel studio Key, is now available on Steam! Now featuring the side story novel, "First Sky Chapter" and full voice support!
Why similar: Visual Novel 63.3%, Anime 25.9%, Emotional 6.2%, Casual 2.3%, Adventure 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic Key visual novel that excels at delivering a powerful, emotional, and supernatural-tinged story about connection and sacrifice.
- #5 eden*
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 5,086 reviews2015
Dev: minoriPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 59.9 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 54.3%, Anime 29.9%, Great Soundtrack 9.1%, Story Rich 4.9%, Emotional 0.5%
Why You'll Like It: As a kinetic novel set against the backdrop of an impending apocalypse, it captures the same sense of fleeting time and emotional finality.
- #6 Everlasting Summer
94% matchVery Positive94% of 77,532 reviews2014
Dev: Soviet Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 58.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Visual novel loved by many – Everlasting Summer – now on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 53%, Anime 21.6%, Great Soundtrack 16.5%, Story Rich 7.3%, Indie 0.6%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric and surreal visual novel that captures a sense of nostalgia and emotional longing similar to the tone of the seed game.
- #7 missed messages.
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 15,474 reviews2019
Dev: Angela He
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 18%
‘goth gf’s iPhone’ airdrops you - accept or decline? A love/horror story about life, death, & memes.
Why similar: Visual Novel 59.8%, Great Soundtrack 12.2%, Anime 8.1%, Emotional 7.8%, Story Rich 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A short, impactful experience that deals with heavy themes like suicide and mental health with a focus on empathy.
- #8 Kanon
90% matchVery Positive98% of 426 reviews2024
Dev: VISUAL ARTS/KeyPub: VISUAL ARTS
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 24.9 hrs≥1hr: 69%
A tale of small miracles in a snow-covered town— Kanon, the very first game from visual novel studio Key, is now available on Steam! Now featuring HD visuals and full voice support! (The protagonist is only voiced in certain scenes.)
Why similar: Visual Novel 59.3%, Anime 22.5%, Drama 9.1%, Emotional 4.9%, Casual 2%
Why You'll Like It: This title focuses on deep emotional bonds and personal growth, sharing the same heartfelt storytelling DNA as other legendary emotional visual novels.
- #9 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,381 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.7 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 59.5%, Anime 24%, Great Soundtrack 8.3%, Story Rich 6.6%, Indie 0.4%
Why You'll Like It: While more horror-oriented, it shares the strong psychological focus and deep character development found in top-tier visual novels.
- #10 Ambre - a heartbreaking kinetic novel
91% matchMostly Positive75% of 671 reviews2017
Dev: Träumendes Mädchen
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 42%
A heartbreaking kinetic novel about the meeting of a depressed thirty years old man with a lost little girl he takes in his house.
Why similar: Visual Novel 67.9%, Anime 25.1%, Indie 4.5%, Casual 2.2%, Singleplayer 0.3%
Why You'll Like It: True to its name, this kinetic novel focuses on a poignant, linear story that aims to evoke the same emotional response as the seed game.
- #11 Lucy -The Eternity She Wished For-
89% matchVery Positive95% of 8,195 reviews2016
Dev: Modern Visual Arts Laboratory
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 37.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If there was a robot that could laugh, cry and smile. ...Does it have a soul?
Why similar: Visual Novel 60.3%, Anime 26.4%, Story Rich 5.7%, Great Soundtrack 5.5%, Indie 0.8%
Why You'll Like It: A touching story about an android that explores the meaning of life and death, echoing the existential questions found in Narcissu.
- #12 Symphonic Rain
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,170 reviews2017
Dev: KOGADO STUDIOPub: KOMODO
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 32.8 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 46.3%, Anime 25%, Great Soundtrack 12.4%, Story Rich 8.1%, Emotional 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game blends music and narrative to create a deeply melancholic and atmospheric experience centered on personal growth.
- #13 The Sad Story of Emmeline Burns
88% matchVery Positive90% of 907 reviews2016
Dev: ebi-hime
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 37%
A short lesbian / yuri visual novel set in England. Our heroine, Toma Andrews, meets a ghost girl wearing an old-fashioned nightgown in a graveyard who calls herself Emmeline. Just who is she, and how did she die?
Why similar: Visual Novel 58.3%, Anime 19.5%, Story Rich 5.7%, Emotional 5.6%, Female Protagonist 4.3%
Why You'll Like It: A short, indie-developed visual novel that tackles themes of sadness and personal struggle in a direct, intimate way.
- #14 One Thousand Lies
87% matchVery Positive89% of 1,135 reviews2016
Dev: Keinart Lobre
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 36%
One day, Ciarán starts receiving enigmatic emails from a mysterious sender, turning his everyday life into a mess of a romantic comedy with psychological themes mixed in. What lies beyond the mystery he's been presented with? In the words of Harry H.: "If you want to know the truth, go find it".
Why similar: Visual Novel 59%, Anime 26.7%, Story Rich 6.4%, Great Soundtrack 5%, Indie 1.7%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel that keeps the player engaged through a compelling, emotional narrative and character development.
- #15 Voices from the Sea
86% matchVery Positive93% of 1,262 reviews2015
Dev: Zeiva Inc
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 419.1 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Follow the story of a young boy, Cantus as he meets Maris, the mysterious girl by the sea - an experience that will change his life forever.
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.5%, Anime 32.9%, Indie 2.2%, Story Rich 1.3%, Casual 1%
Why You'll Like It: A short, atmospheric, and character-driven story that emphasizes quiet moments of reflection and connection.
- #16 Sepia Tears
86% matchVery Positive88% of 991 reviews2016
Dev: Scarlet String Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 32%
A visual novel about a memory that a boy named Mark tries very hard to forget, and a girl named Myra who unearths it.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.7%, Anime 28%, Emotional 9.7%, Story Rich 8.4%, Cute 0.8%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a nostalgic and emotional narrative that focuses on the complexities of memory and past relationships.
- #17 Lucid9: Inciting Incident
85% matchVery Positive90% of 1,040 reviews2016
Dev: Fallen Snow Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Lucid9 is a visual novel focused on a web of intricate mysteries set in the fictional 2018 metropolis of Isamu. Lucid9: Inciting Incident is the first part of the story, focused on a string of disappearances that occur at a prestigious, uppity boarding academy.
Why similar: Visual Novel 59.4%, Anime 27.1%, Story Rich 6%, Great Soundtrack 4.9%, Indie 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-focused visual novel that relies on strong character writing to build emotional investment.
- #18 Carpe Diem
84% matchVery Positive89% of 8,560 reviews2015
Dev: Moonlit Works
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 9.1 hrs≥1hr: 13%
Seize the day
Why similar: Visual Novel 59.2%, Anime 35.6%, Indie 2.2%, Story Rich 1%, Casual 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: A short, free-to-play title that emphasizes the importance of living in the moment, mirroring the core message of Narcissu.
- #19 Wonderful Everyday Down the Rabbit-Hole
84% matchVery Positive92% of 2,538 reviews2017
Dev: KeroQPub: Frontwing USA
Windows
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 173.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Wonderful Everyday is a visual novel with multiple routes which develops a story based on a few concepts: "the sky and the world", "the beginning and the end", "literature and science", "savior and hero", "brother and sister".
Why similar: Visual Novel 66.6%, Anime 20.5%, Story Rich 8.3%, Female Protagonist 2.8%, Casual 0.8%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply philosophical and challenging narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature and existence.
- #20 Without Within
83% matchVery Positive88% of 2,027 reviews2015
Dev: InvertMouse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18 minMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 19%
The (mis)adventures of Vinty, a nobody who thinks she's somebody!
Why similar: Visual Novel 53.7%, Anime 36.9%, Story Rich 3.6%, Female Protagonist 2.8%, Indie 2.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, character-focused story that explores the internal struggles of its protagonist with a gentle, reflective tone.
- #21 Frosty Kiss
82% matchVery Positive90% of 1,558 reviews2016
Dev: 2Chance Projects
Windows · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 109.9 hrs≥1hr: 30%
It's been a year since Semyon returned from "Sovyonok" and met the girls from the camp in the real world. But it's New Year at hand! And it needs to be celebrated!
Why similar: Visual Novel 62.8%, Anime 32.7%, Indie 2.9%, Casual 1%, Adventure 0.4%
Why You'll Like It: A short, casual visual novel that provides a quick but sincere emotional narrative.
- #22 Little Busters! English Edition
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,122 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 42.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
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 57.6%, Anime 20.9%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Story Rich 5.5%, Emotional 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: A heartwarming and occasionally heartbreaking story about the value of friendship and the transition into adulthood.
- #23 A Summer's End - Hong Kong 1986
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,172 reviews2020
Dev: Oracle and Bone
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 69%
A Summer's End is a visual novel set in 1980s Hong Kong. It tells of a love story between two women. Lush and vibrant visuals, the game features over 400 unique hand-drawn artwork inspired by Asian cinema and 1980s anime.
Why similar: Visual Novel 60.2%, Anime 11.2%, Great Soundtrack 9.3%, Indie 6.9%, Female Protagonist 5%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric and character-driven visual novel that uses its setting to tell a deeply personal and emotional story.
- #24 Dies irae ~Amantes amentes~
81% matchVery Positive87% of 711 reviews2017
Dev: lightPub: views Co., Ltd
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 25.4 hrs≥1hr: 53%
Night after night, the same dream of a guillotine. A headhunting serial killer. And the "knights" in black who follow soon after. Irrationality that defies the realm of common sense begins to assault and devour the city.
Why similar: Visual Novel 57.5%, Anime 23.4%, Great Soundtrack 12.4%, Story Rich 6.1%, Adventure 0.5%
Why You'll Like It: A story-rich visual novel that offers a complex, long-form narrative for those who appreciate deep world-building and character arcs.
- #25 If My Heart Had Wings
80% matchVery Positive92% of 4,617 reviews2014
Dev: MoeNovel
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 46.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
An animated visual novel of a lovely and bittersweet tale of youth, you play as Aoi Minase in this romantic-comedy as he meets various young girls in his hometown and works together with them to revive their school’s glider-flying “Soaring Club” in order to realize their shared dream of flight.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.7%, Anime 26.8%, Story Rich 8.7%, Great Soundtrack 8.5%, Casual 1.6%
Why You'll Like It: A coming-of-age story that balances lighthearted moments with significant emotional stakes and character growth.
- #26 One Manga Day
82% matchMixed61% of 969 reviews2015
Dev: DeXP
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 29%
Manga are comics created in Japan. The problem for most people is, as they're made in Japan they're only produced in Japanese; someone has to translate them to English! Is one man able to accomplish this? Is there more to his team's relationships other than business? Can everything in a translator's life be simple and clear?
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.6%, Anime 35.1%, Indie 2.3%, Casual 0.8%, Adventure 0.3%
Why You'll Like It: A brief, emotional experience that focuses on the simple, meaningful interactions between its characters.
- #27 Trick and Treat - Visual Novel
78% matchVery Positive90% of 3,616 reviews2016
Dev: Eternal Night StudiosPub: Alberto Herrera
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 40%
Trick & Treat is a Visual Novel that test your instincts by making choices that can get you out from the cursed forest or drive you to death… or maybe just maybe your choices can guide you to something more?
Why similar: Visual Novel 60.2%, Anime 34.3%, Story Rich 2.3%, Indie 1.8%, Casual 0.8%
- #28 Elisa: The Innkeeper - Prequel
79% matchMostly Positive79% of 806 reviews2016
Dev: Neoclassic Games
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 30%
This short Visual novel can be considered as a little introductory episode of the game Elisa the innkeeper. Enjoy our Art and Soundtrack as you begin to shape Elisa's destiny for the better or the worse!
Why similar: Visual Novel 54.2%, Anime 29.9%, Story Rich 4.7%, Female Protagonist 4.5%, Indie 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: A fantasy-themed visual novel that focuses on character relationships and personal history in a contained, intimate setting.
- #29 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,830 reviews2015
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 17.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 58.2%, Anime 23.6%, Great Soundtrack 10.4%, Story Rich 6.2%, Indie 0.6%
- #30 Lost girl`s [diary]
78% matchVery Positive82% of 1,123 reviews2016
Dev: SmoleVN
Windows · Mac
Median: 36 minMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 26%
A group of girls are having their vacation, alone. What would a group of girls do on a dark Christmas night? Of course, fortunetelling! Unfortunately for them, their boyfriends are not about to leave them alone and their sudden visit totally ruins their plans for fortune telling, turning it into a scary story contest.
Why similar: Visual Novel 79.7%, Anime 20%, Singleplayer 0.3%
- #31 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.5 Meakashi
76% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,058 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 21.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.1%, Anime 24.5%, Great Soundtrack 19.6%, Story Rich 6.1%, Female Protagonist 1.6%
- #32 CUPID - A free to play Visual Novel
77% matchVery Positive87% of 1,308 reviews2016
Dev: FerventPub: Afterthought Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 64%
"Love is both poison and cure, both knife and remedy." Set in 18th Century France, this is a gothic romance tale about loss, revenge and the different faces of love.
Why similar: Visual Novel 74.5%, Anime 16.4%, Story Rich 3.1%, Indie 2.9%, Female Protagonist 2.7%
- #33 Eternal Hour: Golden Hour
76% matchVery Positive90% of 873 reviews2017
Dev: Seventh Heart StudiosPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 51.6 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Play through a timeless adventure as Yasu or Rin Fujimoto and discover the origins of Eternal Hour! Eternal Hour: Golden Hour is a fun, emotional, and story-driven Visual Novel that takes place before the events of Eternal Hour.
Why similar: Visual Novel 58%, Anime 31%, Drama 3.5%, Story Rich 3.1%, Indie 1.9%
- #34 The Plan
75% matchVery Positive92% of 23,502 reviews2014
Dev: Krillbite Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12 minMean: 2.4 hrs≥1hr: 5%
A fly ascends to the skies, pondering the pointlessness of its brief existence.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 49.4%, Indie 28.9%, Emotional 11.5%, Casual 6.6%, Singleplayer 2.4%
- #35 fault - milestone two side:above
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,565 reviews2015
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 33.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
fault - milestone two side:above is a Cinematic Visual Novel that takes place right after the events of milestone one. Please note that this novel is a direct sequel to fault - milestone one and contains massive spoilers of the first story. Play through of the first title is highly advised.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.8%, Anime 24.5%, Great Soundtrack 9.9%, Story Rich 6.5%, Female Protagonist 2.9%
- #36 Lynne
74% matchMostly Positive80% of 1,124 reviews2018
Dev: ebi-hime
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 52%
Lynne is a short story about the scariest thing in the world: being a teenager.
Why similar: Visual Novel 75.2%, Anime 17.6%, Indie 2.9%, Story Rich 2.1%, Female Protagonist 1.9%
- #37 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 899 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 20.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 50.2%, Anime 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 15.8%, Story Rich 6.7%, Indie 2.2%
- #38 Cinderella Phenomenon - Otome/Visual Novel
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,122 reviews2017
Dev: Dicesuki
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 25.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The Fairytale Curse was only the beginning...
Why similar: Visual Novel 59%, Anime 22.7%, Great Soundtrack 7.3%, Story Rich 4.5%, Female Protagonist 4.3%
- #39 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.6 Tsumihoroboshi
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 908 reviews2018
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 39.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 58.7%, Anime 26.1%, Great Soundtrack 7.2%, Story Rich 6.8%, Adventure 0.6%
- #40 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
64% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 7,710 reviews2023
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 14.7 hrsMean: 64.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A tale told with vivid colors and rich sound in a classic TYPE-MOON visual novel.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.5%, Anime 18.3%, Great Soundtrack 10.4%, Drama 7.4%, Story Rich 4.2%
- #41 Go! Go! Nippon! ~My First Trip to Japan~
73% matchVery Positive86% of 3,129 reviews2014
Dev: OVERDRIVEPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 18.1 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 58.9%, Anime 39.4%, Story Rich 0.8%, Casual 0.3%, Cute 0.2%
- #42 Analogue: A Hate Story
72% matchVery Positive93% of 2,291 reviews2012
Dev: Love Conquers All Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 57%
A dark visual mystery novel featuring transhumanism, traditional marriage, loneliness, and cosplay. Two pursuable characters. Five endings. Welcome to the future.
Why similar: Visual Novel 71%, Anime 18.5%, Great Soundtrack 4%, Story Rich 3.2%, Indie 2.5%
- #43 Summer Nightmare
74% matchMixed55% of 554 reviews2017
Dev: Team Summer NightmarePub: Elkibe Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 29%
If one’s imagined world of nightmare and the real world unite…. The hide-and-seek game of death in the world of nightmare begins. Discover hints and save yourself from the nightmare!
Why similar: Visual Novel 60%, Anime 34.2%, Indie 3.6%, Casual 1.6%, Adventure 0.6%
- #44 PRICE
70% matchVery Positive94% of 5,145 reviews2016
Dev: YETU GAME
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 59%
The hero Ivry wakes up from a nightmare and finds himself in a weird room. To escape from fear and darkness, he has to search and explore on his own until he discovers the truth and finds his sister Iva.A puzzle game 《PRICE》
Why similar: Anime 38.7%, Visual Novel 29.8%, Great Soundtrack 21%, Indie 4.6%, Story Rich 3.4%
- #45 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 1,271 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 52.6%, Anime 24.1%, Great Soundtrack 15.1%, Story Rich 6.9%, Singleplayer 0.5%
- #46 Evening Surprise
70% matchVery Positive89% of 744 reviews2017
Dev: Aleksandr Soldatov
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 24 minMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 18%
Max and his girlfriend Ann are very happy together. They have no arguments, they enjoy spending time with each other, they are in love. What else can they wish? Well, Max, you will get a big surprise this evening...
Why similar: Visual Novel 71.9%, Anime 21.6%, Indie 6.1%, Singleplayer 0.4%
- #47 planetarian HD
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 3,297 reviews2017
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: VisualArts
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 66.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
planetarian HD is an engaging and emotional visual novel from legendary game studio, Key. A sub-brand of VISUAL ARTS, Key are also famed for creating Kanon, AIR, CLANNAD, Little Busters!, Rewrite, Angel Beats!, and Summer Pockets.
Why similar: Visual Novel 53%, Anime 26.9%, Drama 6.3%, Great Soundtrack 5.6%, Story Rich 3.5%
- #48 Say Goodbye
73% matchMixed52% of 232 reviews2017
Dev: morojenoe's empire
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 87%
This visual novel about an ordinary man with his typical problems. Suddenly, you got a report that your distant cousin died in a car crash. Fortunately, her daughter wasn't with her. You take the girl under your wing. But soon, something starts to go wrong...
Why similar: Visual Novel 70.9%, Anime 20.2%, Indie 6.1%, Casual 2.2%, Adventure 0.7%
- #49 Ame no Marginal -Rain Marginal-
71% matchVery Positive87% of 422 reviews2015
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 95%
The latest visual novel by Tomo Kataoka, the author of Narcissu 1st & 2nd, has arrived! An empty world with endless rain and only one person. Here there is no hunger, sickness or even death. Just what story does this world's one occupant have?
Why similar: Visual Novel 56.5%, Anime 32.2%, Story Rich 4%, Indie 3.7%, Emotional 2.8%
- #50 Doki Doki Literature Club!
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 221,125 reviews2017
Dev: Team Salvato
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 38.4 hrs≥1hr: 74%
The Literature Club is full of cute girls! Will you write the way into their heart? This game is not suitable for children or those who are easily disturbed.
Why similar: Visual Novel 51.4%, Anime 28.9%, Great Soundtrack 11.6%, Story Rich 5.3%, Indie 1.2%
- #51 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.7 Minagoroshi
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 703 reviews2019
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 15.8 hrsMean: 89.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Higurashi When They Cry is a sound novel. The music, backgrounds and characters work together to create a world that is the stage of a novel for the user to read. They laugh and cry and get angry. The user takes the point of view of the protagonist to experience the story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 55.8%, Anime 31.8%, Story Rich 8.5%, Indie 2.4%, Adventure 1%
- #52 Confess My Love
68% matchVery Positive94% of 4,858 reviews2017
Dev: LR Studio
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 65%
The story takes place after school, when Willie decides to confess his love to the girl of his dreams, Liza. Afraid of being refused, he hesitated for a while. Should he summon up his courage and confess his love to her?
Why similar: Anime 43.1%, Visual Novel 31%, Great Soundtrack 12.4%, Story Rich 6.8%, Indie 4.8%
- #53 Connected Hearts - Visual novel
69% matchVery Positive89% of 344 reviews2017
Dev: Eternal Night StudiosPub: Stw Projects
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Gary is caught in a strange dream and now he must overcome the adversities on his path or perish in the attempt. In this adventure you will meet 3 children in dream-like scenarios, next to a mysterious girl who talks about a promise.
Why similar: Visual Novel 70.6%, Anime 23.3%, Indie 4.4%, Casual 1.7%
- #54 fault - milestone one
69% matchVery Positive92% of 3,238 reviews2014
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 29.4 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 27.3%, Great Soundtrack 8.5%, Story Rich 3.8%, Female Protagonist 2.8%
- #55 Eternal Senia
67% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 12,040 reviews2015
Dev: Sanctum Games
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Thoughts and expectations ARPG
Why similar: Anime 59.2%, Great Soundtrack 20.2%, Story Rich 6.3%, Female Protagonist 5.4%, Visual Novel 4.1%
- #56 Hira Hira Hihiru
61% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 902 reviews2023
Dev: BA-KUPub: ANIPLEX.EXE
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 10.6 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 68.9%, Anime 12.8%, Drama 9.9%, Story Rich 3.6%, Casual 2.7%
- #57 CLANNAD Side Stories
68% matchVery Positive88% of 404 reviews2016
Dev: VisualArts/KeyPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 153.8 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Delve further into the world of CLANNAD and experience the stories beyond the original visual novel adventure. Known as CLANNAD Hikari Mimamoru Sakamichi de in Japan, This Steam version features high resolution assets and is translated into English for the very first time.
Why similar: Visual Novel 65.5%, Anime 17.5%, Great Soundtrack 9.6%, Story Rich 5.1%, Casual 1.8%
- #58 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
63% matchVery Positive88% of 1,810 reviews2022
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 52.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
CHAOS;HEAD NOAH is now available on Steam!
Why similar: Visual Novel 61.8%, Anime 23.1%, Story Rich 7.8%, Great Soundtrack 6.3%, Singleplayer 0.5%