- #1 Angels of Death
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 5,297 reviews2016
Dev: Vaka Game Magazine
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 53.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"Please... kill me." "Help me get outta here, and I'll kill you." ~ Angels of Death is a psychological horror-adventure game, consisting of four episodes.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 14.1%, Anime 13.5%, Horror 11.1%, Psychological Horror 10.8%, RPG 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: Created by the same developer, this game shares the exact same dark, character-focused narrative style and puzzle-adventure gameplay.
- #2 The Witch's House MV
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 3,920 reviews2018
Dev: FummyPub: DANGEN Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A young girl, Viola, is drawn inexorably to a mysterious manor that seems to change behind her back. It is a place of pain, turmoil and death. Plumb its detestable depths and abominable history. Untangle riddles that bar your perilous path. And flee the hellish halls of The Witch’s House.
Why similar: Horror 25.6%, Female Protagonist 9.2%, RPG 9.1%, Psychological Horror 9%, Anime 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: A quintessential RPG Maker horror experience that emphasizes clever puzzle-solving and a haunting, atmospheric story.
- #3 Ib
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 5,122 reviews2022
Dev: kouriPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 16.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
A 2D exploration adventure game set in a creepy, mysterious art gallery.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 12.8%, Anime 10.9%, Horror 10.6%, Story Rich 10.3%, Psychological Horror 10%
Why You'll Like It: This classic title perfectly captures the surreal, exploration-based horror gameplay found in the best RPG Maker adventures.
- #4 Mad Father
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 6,511 reviews2016
Dev: senPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Witness the tale of a most foolish family. A remake of the classic horror exploration game makes its way to Steam.
Why similar: Anime 20.3%, Horror 18.1%, Psychological Horror 16.9%, Female Protagonist 12.5%, Story Rich 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: It features a strong female protagonist navigating a dark, gothic mystery through exploration and puzzle-solving.
- #5 The Forest of Drizzling Rain
94% matchVery Positive97% of 491 reviews2022
Dev: Vaka Game Magazine
Windows · Mac
Alas, it was the "promised place," where Shiori was never meant to go. Finally, a remake of The Forest of Drizzling Rain, that masterpiece of an exploration horror game with multiple endings from the creator of the big hit Angels of Death!
Why similar: RPG 26.3%, Horror 17.9%, Anime 15.8%, Adventure 12.5%, Story Rich 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-heavy mystery game that excels at building tension through its atmospheric pixel-art environments.
- #6 The House in Fata Morgana
94% 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: LGBTQ+ 14.4%, Visual Novel 13%, Great Soundtrack 12.6%, Anime 11.1%, Female Protagonist 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: While more text-heavy, its gothic atmosphere and focus on tragic, character-driven revenge stories make it a perfect thematic match.
- #7 Pocket Mirror ~ GoldenerTraum
93% matchVery Positive93% of 1,656 reviews2023
Dev: AstralShiftPub: KOMODO
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Delve into the enthralling world of Pocket Mirror ~ GoldenerTraum, the acclaimed RPG Maker gothic horror game that'll take you on a moving journey of self-discovery.
Why similar: Horror 17.7%, Anime 15.3%, Female Protagonist 14.9%, RPG 13.2%, Dark Fantasy 12.1%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal and visually striking adventure that mirrors the dark, psychological themes found in Noel's journey.
- #8 UNREAL LIFE
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,922 reviews2020
Dev: hako lifePub: room6
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 299.1 hrs≥1hr: 69%
And now, for today's story.
Why similar: Story Rich 21.4%, Adventure 11.9%, Female Protagonist 11.8%, Dark Fantasy 10.6%, Anime 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, atmospheric puzzle-adventure that focuses on uncovering the truth through environmental storytelling.
- #9 Corpse Party
92% matchVery Positive89% of 1,376 reviews2016
Dev: GrisGrisPub: XSEED Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
A group of friends unknowingly perform an occult ritual that traps them in an otherworldly elementary school. Here, the vengeful spirits of young children threaten their lives and their sanity, and the only hope of survival is to uncover the chilling details behind the murders of those trapped before them...
Why similar: Horror 20%, Anime 19.5%, Visual Novel 11.1%, Psychological Horror 11%, RPG 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A seminal work in the anime-style horror genre that features high-stakes survival and multiple branching paths.
- #10 Misao - 2024 HD Remaster
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,503 reviews2017
Dev: senPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Explore a school plagued by unnatural phenomena in this horror-adventure game revolving around the missing girl Misao. Improving upon 2017's "Definitive Edition" with refreshed graphics and support for HD resolutions, you can now experience the terror in a new form.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 15.9%, Anime 13.8%, Horror 11.4%, Psychological Horror 11.4%, RPG 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic horror-adventure that balances dark humor with intense, story-driven supernatural events.
- #11 OneShot
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 62,700 reviews2016
Dev: Future Cat LLCPub: KOMODO
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 27.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
OneShot is a surreal top down Puzzle/Adventure game with unique gameplay capabilities. You are to guide a child through a mysterious world on a mission to restore its long-dead sun. The world knows you exist.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 24.2%, Story Rich 18.6%, Cute 12.7%, Puzzle 9.7%, RPG 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: An emotionally resonant puzzle-adventure that breaks the fourth wall to create a deeply personal connection with the player.
- #12 Alicemare
90% matchVery Positive89% of 1,193 reviews2016
Dev: △○□× (Miwashiba)Pub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Alicemare is a somehow familiar yet totally unique adventure game infused with subtle hints of horror, created by △○□× (Miwashiba) using the WOLF RPG Editor.
Why similar: Anime 15.8%, Great Soundtrack 11%, Horror 10.3%, Psychological Horror 9.2%, Story Rich 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal, dark fairy-tale adventure that relies heavily on puzzle-solving and atmosphere.
- #13 Tales of the Black Forest
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 15,169 reviews2019
Dev: 拾英工作室
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 23.7 hrs≥1hr: 85%
In a world filled with yōkai, a surging dark power has overshadowed a Japanese town. A group of 2 developers have produced a Japanese pixel adventure game to tell a tale that dates back to the Heisei era...In the name of dreams and passion.
Why similar: RPG 15.5%, Female Protagonist 14.9%, Horror 14.4%, Anime 11.4%, Story Rich 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: A short but impactful RPG Maker mystery that captures the same investigative spirit as Noel's adventures.
- #14 OMORI
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 86,619 reviews2020
Dev: OMOCAT, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 10.7 hrsMean: 24.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Explore a strange world full of colorful friends and foes. When the time comes, the path you’ve chosen will determine your fate... and perhaps the fate of others as well.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 23%, Psychological Horror 22.5%, Story Rich 17.1%, RPG 11.7%, Horror 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply psychological RPG that uses its aesthetic to explore complex themes of trauma and friendship.
- #15 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
87% 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 27.6%, Anime 19.6%, Great Soundtrack 14.3%, Female Protagonist 14.2%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A high-production-value visual novel that offers a cinematic anime experience with a strong focus on supernatural mystery.
- #16 Higurashi When They Cry Hou+
86% matchVery Positive88% of 170 reviews2023
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 65%
The tragedy of Hinamizawa is over. Those held captive within its grip are free from the fate that bound them to June 1983. Yet the tale of Hinamizawa is not truly complete. There are many worlds not yet explored.
Why similar: Anime 23.6%, Visual Novel 22.6%, Adventure 11%, Great Soundtrack 6.3%, Horror 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: A masterpiece of psychological suspense and mystery that shares the dark, episodic storytelling structure of Noel.
- #17 BAD END THEATER
85% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 9,656 reviews2021
Dev: NomnomNami
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 71%
select your protagonist and explore a variety of terrible fates!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 31.7%, Visual Novel 21%, Story Rich 16.2%, Cute 10.4%, Anime 10.2%
Why You'll Like It: A unique narrative game that encourages exploring multiple endings to uncover the truth behind its dark, interconnected story.
- #18 To the Moon
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 85,392 reviews2012
Dev: Freebird Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 79%
A story-driven experience about two doctors traversing backwards through a dying man's memories to artificially fulfill his last wish.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 38.3%, Story Rich 28.7%, Indie 8.6%, RPG 6.4%, Adventure 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A landmark narrative RPG that focuses on emotional storytelling and character development over traditional combat.
- #19 Finding Paradise
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 20,040 reviews2017
Dev: Freebird Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Two doctors traverse backwards through a dying man's memories to fulfill his last wish. This is To the Moon's standalone sequel, but can also be played first.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 23%, Story Rich 19.4%, RPG 18.7%, Cute 14.3%, Adventure 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: Continuing the emotional legacy of its predecessor, this game offers a poignant, story-rich experience.
- #20 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
83% 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 26%, Anime 19.9%, Story Rich 14.1%, Psychological Horror 12.8%, Great Soundtrack 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological thriller that excels at building mystery and paranoia within an anime-inspired setting.
- #21 The Letter - Horror Visual Novel
84% matchVery Positive86% of 1,515 reviews2017
Dev: Yangyang MobilePub: Neon Doctrine
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
When seven people fall prey to a vicious curse, they will discover that horror rests not from the shadows lurking about, but within themselves. To what ends will one go in order to survive?
Why similar: Visual Novel 22.4%, Horror 18.6%, Anime 11.9%, Psychological Horror 9.2%, Story Rich 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A choice-driven horror game that features a large cast of characters and a branching narrative structure.
- #22 Yume Nikki
82% matchVery Positive94% of 10,100 reviews2018
Dev: kikiyamaPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 71.6 hrs≥1hr: 47%
This is a game in which you traverse the extremely dark world inside a dream.
Why similar: Psychological Horror 21.1%, Female Protagonist 20.8%, Horror 16.3%, Cute 11.7%, Indie 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: The foundational surreal exploration game that inspired the entire genre of dream-like, atmospheric RPG Maker titles.
- #23 BLUE REFLECTION: Second Light
81% matchVery Positive82% of 1,096 reviews2021
Dev: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 53.2 hrs≥1hr: 77%
“As the last summer day fades, all is illuminated.” With gorgeous translucent designs by Mel Kishida, as well as a story that depicts the youth of lifelike girls, based on a theme of human identity and bonding, a new title in the BLUE REFLECTION series is here!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 17.9%, Female Protagonist 15.1%, Visual Novel 11.9%, Anime 11.1%, RPG 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A character-driven RPG that focuses on the emotional bonds between female protagonists in a supernatural setting.
- #24 Re:Turn - One Way Trip
82% matchVery Positive81% of 198 reviews2020
Dev: Red Ego GamesPub: Green Man Gaming Publishing
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Re:Turn - One Way Trip is a 2D side-scrolling puzzle-adventure horror game. Trapped in a ghostly train, Saki must search the past and present to find and save her friends. More importantly, Saki must use her wits if she is to survive against an unspeakable evil hellbent on avenging unrequited love.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 15.5%, Visual Novel 13.7%, Anime 13.2%, Horror 12.1%, Psychological Horror 11%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D side-scrolling horror game that emphasizes puzzle-solving and a haunting, character-focused story.
- #25 LISA: The Painful
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 15,017 reviews2014
Dev: Dingaling ProductionsPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 29.6 hrs≥1hr: 83%
The miserable journey of a broken man...
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 20.5%, RPG 15.2%, Psychological Horror 15%, Story Rich 13.5%, Horror 13.1%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, narrative-heavy RPG that explores themes of morality and revenge in a bleak, unforgiving world.
- #26 Demons Roots
79% matchVery Positive94% of 2,238 reviews2023
Dev: Quick nail AristocratPub: Kagura Games
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 21.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
In a final struggle for survival, demonkind again invaded the human world. However, the world they return to after years in the darkness isn't the same as it once was...
Why similar: RPG 21.1%, Anime 19.7%, Adventure 13.8%, Female Protagonist 13.1%, Story Rich 10.8%
- #27 Dreaming Sarah
80% matchVery Positive91% of 2,860 reviews2015
Dev: Asteristic Game Studio
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 4.9 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Dreaming Sarah is an adventure platformer where you play as Sarah, a girl who is in a coma. Explore the world around her and help her wake up!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 38.5%, Puzzle 19.7%, Adventure 13.4%, 2D 13.3%, Casual 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal puzzle-platformer that captures the dream-like exploration and discovery found in many RPG Maker classics.
- #28 Angels of Death Episode.Eddie
79% matchVery Positive89% of 469 reviews2020
Dev: Vaka Game Magazine
Windows
"The boy made up his mind to face a cruel world." The new special edition of the psychological horror-adventure game "Angels of Death", which has also been made into an anime. The past of B4 floor master Eddie is revealed...
Why similar: RPG 29.4%, Adventure 16.2%, Indie 11%, Anime 10.5%, Horror 9.8%
- #29 The Angel's Devil Tail - One More Question 2
76% matchVery Positive96% of 114 reviews2026
Dev: 橘音
Windows
A horror-meets-cute puzzle game with a twist-filled Yuri romance story.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 17%, Anime 16%, Visual Novel 14.4%, Horror 10.5%, Story Rich 9.8%
- #30 The House in Fata Morgana: A Requiem for Innocence
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,769 reviews2018
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 16.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
"A Requiem for Innocence" is a companion to the visual novel "The House in Fata Morgana." It tells the tale of a young man dragged down by his ambitions and a girl both worshiped as a saint and maligned as a witch. For them, there is no happily ever after.
Why similar: Visual Novel 25.9%, Great Soundtrack 18.7%, Adventure 14.2%, Story Rich 14.1%, Anime 13.2%
- #31 The NOexistenceN of you AND me
75% matchVery Positive93% of 20,460 reviews2024
Dev: 0x0Real StudioPub: Nino Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 16.7 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Use "game" as a medium to showcase the world of "you/girl". Explore the truth of "you/girl/world" through the form of a "visual novel".
Why similar: Visual Novel 24.3%, Anime 19.1%, Psychological Horror 17%, Story Rich 12.6%, Cute 10.8%
- #32 The Aquarium does not dance Special Edition
75% matchVery Positive98% of 262 reviews2025
Dev: 橙々Pub: Frontier Works Inc.
Windows
Navigate your way through an aquarium overrun by gruesome creatures known as creepies and unravel its hidden mysteries. With each riddle you solve, you’ll find yourself one step closer to uncovering the chilling truth of Bianca Aquarium. Your choices affect the outcome of the game, so choose wisely.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 17.2%, Horror 11.3%, RPG 10.9%, Psychological Horror 9.7%, Cute 9.3%
- #33 夜弦之音 - Echoes of Nocturnal Chords
78% matchVery Positive100% of 113 reviews2020
Dev: 秋之忧郁Pub: Eternal Dream
Windows
On a rainy night, Xiaoyin disappears searching for the legendary “Miracle Grass.” Yixuan follows clues into a trap-filled cave where bodies, monsters, lies, and warmth intertwine. Multiple endings guide you through fairy tale and reality, revealing a fate woven from hope and loss.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 16%, Anime 15%, RPG 12.9%, Horror 12%, Story Rich 8.1%
- #34 We Know the Devil
77% matchVery Positive94% of 1,155 reviews2016
Dev: Pillow Fight
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 55%
WE KNOW THE DEVIL is a visual novel about teens reluctantly fighting the devil at summer camp. Follow meangirl Neptune, tomboy Jupiter, and shy shy Venus as they get to know each other--but one always gets left out.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 25.2%, Female Protagonist 16.3%, Visual Novel 16.2%, Great Soundtrack 13.3%, Horror 6.8%
- #35 The Rule Of SHE
74% matchVery Positive88% of 58 reviews2025
Dev: HaiBin studio
Windows
A wandering soul mistakenly enters a world of strange tales and odd rules. Beware! This place is fraught with danger. To complete reincarnation, you must toe the line. Any soul that dares to go against the system will face correction. Will you comply—or defy?
Why similar: Female Protagonist 19%, Horror 14.3%, Puzzle 10.5%, RPG 10%, Story Rich 9.1%
- #36 Eve of Souls: Static Pod
76% matchVery Positive95% of 508 reviews2019
Dev: LighTea Fish Studio
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 70%
[The pod will break soon. Will she survive the nightmare or find the truth?]
Why similar: RPG 16.3%, Anime 12.8%, Female Protagonist 12.7%, Horror 12.4%, Psychological Horror 9.1%
- #37 Adolescent Santa Claus
77% matchVery Positive85% of 1,321 reviews2018
Dev: TALESSHOP Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 3.5 hrs≥1hr: 25%
This visual novel game tells the tale of a cute little Santa Clause appearing
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.9%, Anime 30.9%, Cute 15.9%, Adventure 6%, Casual 6%
- #38 Magical Girl Witch Trials
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 31,109 reviews2025
Dev: AcaciaPub: Re,AER
Windows · Mac
Median: 16.0 hrsMean: 32.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Thirteen girls awaken, only to find themselves in a prison. What awaits them: a Witch Trial. Help them prepare for the trial by exploring the prison in order to find the witch hidden amongst them. Find the witch, learn what kind of magic she holds, dispel the lies, and prepare for the execution.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 23%, Visual Novel 21%, LGBTQ+ 16.9%, Cute 11.9%, Anime 10.1%
- #39 Folie Fatale
71% matchVery Positive86% of 2,531 reviews2024
Dev: Kanmidoko (神海処)Pub: 346lab Localization
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
All capture targets are mentally "Jirai"(landmine)!? Meet these eccentric boys, reveal the truth beneath in this Psycho-love-horror VN!
Why similar: Female Protagonist 27.2%, Visual Novel 18.8%, Psychological Horror 16%, Anime 16%, Story Rich 8%
- #40 Wonderful Everyday Down the Rabbit-Hole
74% 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 21%, Psychological Horror 16.2%, Anime 13.2%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Story Rich 11.3%
- #41 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,490 reviews2024
Dev: TYPE-MOONPub: Aniplex Inc.
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 48.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Seek the root of the Fate franchise. Return to where it all began.
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.7%, Anime 24.3%, Story Rich 14.6%, Great Soundtrack 12.8%, Adventure 6.4%
- #42 Umineko When They Cry - Question Arcs
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,708 reviews2016
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 13.3 hrsMean: 42.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Umineko When They Cry is the 2nd series of Sound Novel released by 07th Expansion. The steam version features renewed character sprites which is swappable from the classic art.
Why similar: Great Soundtrack 29.4%, Visual Novel 20.3%, Story Rich 14.1%, Anime 11.9%, Psychological Horror 8.5%
- #43 Death end re;Quest
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,394 reviews2019
Dev: Idea FactoryPub: Idea Factory International
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 37.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Death end re;Quest takes the classic turn-based RPG and flips it upside-down. Switch between the RPG action of the game world and the visual novel segments of the real world. In the realm of game development, it may seem all fun and games until the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur.
Why similar: Anime 26.9%, RPG 15%, Visual Novel 11.9%, Female Protagonist 11.1%, Adventure 7.4%
- #44 Narcissu 1st & 2nd
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,284 reviews2015
Dev: stage-nanaPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 48 minMean: 19.5 hrs≥1hr: 47%
This is a story of disease and suffering; of medication and adverse effects; of thoracotomy scars and cellular poisons; of the living who cannot help but to die and of the dying who cannot help but to live; of a resting place other than "on 7F" or "at home".
Why similar: Visual Novel 37.1%, Anime 28%, Great Soundtrack 13.7%, Story Rich 8.8%, Female Protagonist 4.2%
- #45 Confess My Love
71% 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 21%, RPG 14.5%, Horror 13.9%, Great Soundtrack 7.7%, Visual Novel 7.3%
- #46 Naughty Girl 2
73% matchVery Positive82% of 104 reviews2019
Dev: Hentai X
Windows
Naughty Girl is a casual puzzle game, where you reveal gorgeous cowgirl pictures while you relax in a 3 difficulties puzzle.
Why similar: Anime 15.4%, Female Protagonist 13.2%, Great Soundtrack 10.7%, Puzzle 8.8%, Cute 7.4%
- #47 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.7 Minagoroshi
71% 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: Anime 20.7%, Visual Novel 17.7%, Horror 14%, Psychological Horror 13.9%, Story Rich 11.6%
- #48 Mhakna Gramura and Fairy Bell
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 655 reviews2018
Dev: ALICE IN DISSONANCE
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Written in the style of a children’s book, Mhakna Gramura and Fairy Bell is a Cinematic Novel about two children named Mhakna and Sebiarno that escape the wretched Mullbear Orphanage with the help of a Fairy named Bell, who promises eternal happiness as long as they agree to never grow up.
Why similar: Visual Novel 19.3%, Anime 18.9%, Great Soundtrack 17.8%, Story Rich 12.9%, Indie 8.8%
- #49 Seventh Lair
69% matchVery Positive94% of 398 reviews2022
Dev: NOVECTPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac
Seventh Lair is a short visual novel featuring some cast members of The House in Fata Morgana. It exists in a parallel universe to the original game, so it can be enjoyed even by those unfamiliar with it.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 24.4%, Visual Novel 21.7%, Anime 20%, Story Rich 10.4%, Great Soundtrack 6.2%
- #50 Hashihime of the Old Book Town
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 643 reviews2019
Dev: ADELTAPub: MangaGamer
Windows
Follow the protagonist's pursuit to uncover the death of his friends during the Taisho era of Japan. An highly-acclaimed, psychedelic BL murder-mystery visual novel from indie developer ADELTA!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 41.7%, Visual Novel 19.1%, Anime 9.4%, Story Rich 8.4%, Nudity 5.3%
- #51 Nights of Azure 2: Bride of the New Moon
72% matchMostly Positive75% of 354 reviews2017
Dev: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 49.2 hrs≥1hr: 69%
A Tale of Three Beautiful Maidens Drawn to Each Other. When three friends, deceived and separated by the tricks of darkness, find each other again, their bond shall become the light that will clear away the shadows and guide them towards the truth...
Why similar: Female Protagonist 19.5%, LGBTQ+ 19%, Anime 12.7%, RPG 12.2%, Cute 9.7%
- #52 The Neverending Summer
67% matchVery Positive99% of 83 reviews2025
Dev: LSAusa
Windows
Summer comes again and again, and changes come quietly.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 22.5%, Female Protagonist 16.2%, Visual Novel 15.5%, Anime 13%, RPG 11.5%
- #53 Tokyo Dark
70% matchVery Positive84% of 1,341 reviews2017
Dev: CherrymochiPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Legend tells of a door deep below Tokyo's sewers. All who enter are lost forever. Detective Ito's partner is missing. Explore Tokyo & uncover the darkness that lays beneath the streets in this Point & Click - meets Visual Novel - narrative adventure that questions the very core of Ito's sanity.
Why similar: Anime 20.7%, Female Protagonist 17.5%, Visual Novel 16.1%, Horror 12.5%, Psychological Horror 11.2%
- #54 The Song of Saya
68% matchVery Positive90% of 9,431 reviews2019
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 59.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Bear witness to a love that will change the world, in this classic horror romance visual novel from acclaimed writer Urobuchi Gen.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.7%, Psychological Horror 19.2%, Anime 11.2%, Great Soundtrack 10.3%, Horror 10.2%
- #55 Little Goody Two Shoes
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,377 reviews2023
Dev: AstralShiftPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Venture into the woods as you play Little Goody Two Shoes, a phantasmagorical horror narrative adventure where all your decisions matter!
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 23.4%, Female Protagonist 14.6%, Horror 14.1%, RPG 13.9%, Anime 8.6%
- #56 Saint Maker - Horror Visual Novel
67% matchVery Positive86% of 253 reviews2023
Dev: Yangyang MobilePub: Neon Doctrine
Windows · Mac
A haunted convent. Statues that move on their own. A buried past. Welcome to Saint Idelora’s convent, where becoming a saint comes with a price.
Why similar: Female Protagonist 17.8%, Visual Novel 16.5%, Psychological Horror 13.9%, Horror 12.9%, Anime 12.4%
- #57 NOeSIS02_羽化
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 758 reviews2021
Dev: Classic ChocolatPub: Red × Balloon
Windows
A spirit trapped in the mirror, a girl restrained by her elder sister, a younger sister suffering from serious illness.The second wave of NOeSIS and a story of troubled girls and boys.
Why similar: Anime 19.1%, RPG 13.9%, Horror 12.2%, Cute 11.7%, Psychological Horror 9.9%
- #58 Heart of the Woods
67% matchVery Positive95% of 964 reviews2019
Dev: Studio Élan
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 75.1 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A fantasy yuri visual novel filled with magic, fairies, and a ghost girl. When Maddie and her best friend, Tara, journey to a remote forest village to investigate rumors of the supernatural, they find a whole lot more than they bargained for.
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 21.1%, Female Protagonist 13.4%, Anime 12.5%, Visual Novel 12.1%, Dark Fantasy 11.6%
- #59 HorrorVale
64% matchVery Positive99% of 423 reviews2024
Dev: BatWorks Software
Windows
HorrorVale: A grand Spooktacular adventure about a girl, her dog, and her long journey to save him in a strange and horrifying Underworld.
Why similar: RPG 35.3%, Horror 23.5%, Adventure 18.2%, Indie 12.5%, Cute 10.5%
- #60 Noctuary
64% matchVery Positive92% of 2,635 reviews2023
Dev: GratescaPub: Serenity Forge
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 19.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Two young illuminators, Fancia and Alina, start their adventure in the bright and fascinating Inlixaland... ...in pursuit of becoming trustworthy "The Arborangers."
Why similar: LGBTQ+ 16.2%, Anime 15.8%, Female Protagonist 14.1%, Cute 13.6%, Visual Novel 13.1%