- #1 GNOSIA
97% matchVery Positive94% of 4,865 reviews2022
Dev: Petit DepottoPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 15.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
The Gnosia lie. Pretending to be human, they’ll get in close, trick and deceive, and then eliminate one victim at a time...
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.3%, Mystery 13.8%, Psychological Horror 12.6%, Psychological 11.2%, Detective 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly mirrors the social deduction and time-loop mechanics of Raging Loop within a sci-fi setting.
- #2 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
96% 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 31.5%, Mystery 17.6%, Psychological Horror 13.1%, Story Rich 10.2%, Detective 5.1%
Why You'll Like It: This series defines the death game genre with its intense puzzles and branching narrative paths.
- #3 428: Shibuya Scramble
96% matchVery Positive95% of 3,747 reviews2018
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A kidnapping on the streets of Shibuya brings together a hot-blooded detective, hard-hitting journalist, former gang leader, the head researcher of a big pharma manufacturer and a part-timer stuck in cat costume for a series of events each more unexpected and outrageous than the last.
Why similar: Visual Novel 46.5%, Mystery 22.2%, Story Rich 9.9%, Detective 8.7%, Adventure 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: It features a complex, interconnected branching narrative where multiple characters' choices impact the fate of the city.
- #4 AI: The Somnium Files
95% 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: Visual Novel 28.5%, Mystery 17%, Detective 16.6%, Story Rich 8.8%, Gore 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: A brilliant detective mystery that uses unique psychological investigation mechanics to uncover dark truths.
- #5 PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 6,838 reviews2023
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 10.2 hrs≥1hr: 87%
How far would you go to bring someone back from the dead? Discover the depths that some will go to in this horror-adventure game.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.2%, Mystery 21.5%, Story Rich 10.9%, Anime 8.4%, Adventure 8%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery set in Japan that balances horror and investigation with a unique, atmospheric presentation.
- #6 Your Turn To Die -Death Game By Majority-
94% 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: Mystery 24.9%, Psychological 21.7%, Psychological Horror 21.6%, Story Rich 10.2%, Anime 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A gripping death game that heavily emphasizes social deduction and voting mechanics similar to the feast in Raging Loop.
- #7 CHAOS;CHILD
93% matchVery Positive93% of 3,899 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 81.0 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 31.1%, Mystery 15.3%, Psychological Horror 11.1%, Gore 8.1%, Story Rich 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A dark, psychological thriller that follows a group of students investigating a series of gruesome murders.
- #8 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.1 Onikakushi
92% 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 39.9%, Mystery 20.7%, Psychological 16.2%, Story Rich 8.8%, Anime 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: The quintessential folk horror visual novel that captures the feeling of being trapped in an isolated, dangerous village.
- #9 The House in Fata Morgana
91% 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 30.4%, Mystery 17.8%, Psychological Horror 16.7%, Story Rich 10.1%, Anime 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: An incredibly atmospheric and gothic psychological horror story that explores deep themes of tragedy and mystery.
- #10 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
91% 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: Visual Novel 29.7%, Detective 19.1%, Mystery 18.8%, Psychological Horror 12%, Story Rich 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic death game visual novel where students must solve murders to survive their confinement.
- #11 The Letter - Horror Visual Novel
90% 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 37.9%, Psychological Horror 11.8%, Mystery 11%, Gore 7.7%, Story Rich 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A branching horror story where the choices you make significantly impact the survival of the cast.
- #12 Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 31,308 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 10.7 hrsMean: 32.7 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Jabberwock Island—You and your classmates were ready for fun in the sun until Monokuma returned to restart his murderous game! Trapped in a kill-or-be-killed situation, your only hope rests in solving the island’s mysteries.
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.8%, Detective 21.1%, Mystery 17.3%, Psychological Horror 10.4%, Story Rich 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: The second entry in the series, expanding on the death game formula with more complex mysteries and character dynamics.
- #13 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
89% matchVery Positive90% of 598 reviews2016
Dev: YetiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Rescue squad captain Watase Kasasagi wakes up without his memories in the middle of his most critical mission yet-- a nuclear meltdown at a research facility. In an unfamiliar place and without his years of training, he must rescue the survivors and escape...
Why similar: Visual Novel 45.4%, Mystery 15.4%, Story Rich 9.9%, Anime 7%, Gore 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A high-stakes thriller that uses a unique 'Senses Sympathy System' to manage branching paths during a disaster.
- #14 STEINS;GATE
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 25,836 reviews2016
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 66.9 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 44.6%, Story Rich 12.9%, Time Travel 9.6% ★, Mystery 8.1%, Anime 8%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive time-travel story that focuses on the consequences of altering the past to save those you love.
- #15 Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma
87% matchVery Positive82% of 4,789 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Nine participants awaken, trapped in an underground facility. To escape, they must play a game with deadly consequences. Who will live, and who will die? The choice is yours. Let the Decision Game begin…
Why similar: Visual Novel 32.6%, Mystery 19.2%, Psychological Horror 19%, Story Rich 10.7%, Anime 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: The final chapter of the Zero Escape trilogy, focusing on extreme moral dilemmas and survival.
- #16 Spirit Hunter: Death Mark
86% matchVery Positive82% of 512 reviews2019
Dev: EXPERIENCEPub: Aksys Games
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 13.2 hrs≥1hr: 71%
A strange rumor is spreading through the shadows of Tokyo's H City: a mysterious disfigurement has been appearing on the bodies of certain individuals. Anyone who receives the Mark will rapidly die of unknown, horrifying causes. The countdown to death has already begun...
Why similar: Visual Novel 47.9%, Violent 16.7%, Adventure 12.8%, Detective 9.8%, Horror 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A horror-adventure game that focuses on investigating urban legends and surviving supernatural threats.
- #17 Return to Shironagasu Island
85% matchVery Positive94% of 4,067 reviews2020
Dev: HYOGO ONIMUSHIPub: TABINOMICHI
Windows
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 14.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A mystery adventure game and visual novel set on solitary Shironagasu Island. Discover its secrets, solve its mysteries, and escape from the ominous island!
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.7%, Mystery 19.7%, Detective 10.4%, Psychological Horror 10.3%, Adventure 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic-style adventure mystery that focuses on uncovering the secrets of a remote, dangerous island.
- #18 Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony
86% matchVery Positive83% of 22,376 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 30.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
A new cast of 16 characters find themselves kidnapped and imprisoned in a school. Inside, some will kill, some will die, and some will be punished. Reimagine what you thought high-stakes, fast-paced investigation was as you investigate twisted murder cases and condemn your new friends to death.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.2%, Detective 20.3%, Mystery 17%, Psychological Horror 10.5%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A meta-commentary on the death game genre that keeps the mystery and tension high throughout.
- #19 The Song of Saya
84% 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 39.1%, Psychological Horror 24%, Gore 14.2%, Story Rich 5.7%, Sexual Content 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply unsettling psychological horror story that challenges the player's perception of reality.
- #20 Fatal Twelve
84% matchVery Positive92% of 1,003 reviews2018
Dev: LYCORISPub: Sekai Project
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Shishimai Rinka was a high schooler who ran a small café named Lion House in place of her grandmother. She lived her life much like any other person her age, but one day, she was caught up in an explosion while returning home on the train alongside her friend, Hitsuji Naomi.
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.1%, Mystery 17.5%, Story Rich 11.5%, Violent 7.2%, Anime 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A death game visual novel where twelve people compete to avoid their own demise through a series of eliminations.
- #21 YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,620 reviews2020
Dev: NitroplusPub: JAST
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 131.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story is the visual novel medium in its purest form. Will Shinichi choose Miyuki, the beautiful queen bee of the school, or the endearingly awkward misfit Aoi? With art by Tsuji Santa, these beautifully rendered romances will stay with you forever.
Why similar: Visual Novel 41.2%, Psychological Horror 24.1%, Story Rich 6.3%, Anime 5.6%, Psychological 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A psychological horror visual novel that subverts expectations and breaks the fourth wall in disturbing ways.
- #22 The Shell Part I: Inferno
82% matchVery Positive91% of 1,368 reviews2023
Dev: Innocent GreyPub: Shiravune
Windows
Median: 10.9 hrsMean: 114.3 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Unravel a string of gruesome murders terrorizing Tokyo in this mystery-thriller visual novel. The secrets of a case from six years prior may just be the key to the current unending cycle of tragedy—and the thing that cracks this woeful world’s shell may be one girl’s smile.
Why similar: Visual Novel 28%, Detective 17.2%, Mystery 17%, Psychological Horror 15.1%, Gore 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A gritty detective mystery that deals with dark psychological themes and complex investigation.
- #23 Wonderful Everyday Down the Rabbit-Hole
83% 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 29.7%, Psychological Horror 17.3%, Mystery 10.3%, Psychological 9%, Story Rich 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A philosophical and psychological visual novel that explores dark themes through fragmented, non-linear storytelling.
- #24 Magical Girl Witch Trials
78% 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: Visual Novel 36.7%, Detective 16.8%, Mystery 15%, Story Rich 7%, Gore 6%
- #25 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.2 Watanagashi
81% 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 32.4%, Mystery 15.6%, Psychological Horror 15%, Psychological 7.2%, Story Rich 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the folk horror mystery of the series with new perspectives on the village's dark history.
- #26 Death Come True
81% matchMostly Positive77% of 950 reviews2020
Dev: IzanagiGames
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Everything rides on your choices in this new wave interactive movie game. Experience a thrilling science fiction mystery in full-length live-action format—from genius creator of the "Danganronpa" series, Kazutaka Kodaka!
Why similar: Visual Novel 42.9%, Mystery 28.4%, Adventure 9.7%, Story Rich 9.7%, Horror 3.7%
Why You'll Like It: An FMV-based death game where the protagonist must use their ability to loop time to uncover the truth behind their situation.
- #27 Night Loops
79% matchVery Positive89% of 163 reviews2023
Dev: JiaquariumPub: indie.io
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Journey through the psyche… Welcome to the Seaside Hotel, where the final hour of your night shift awaits. Tend to guests, explore their dreams, and lose your sense of Self – time and again. In this dark, labyrinthine adventure, unravel the path to the truth below.
Why similar: Visual Novel 26.2%, Psychological Horror 19.3%, Psychological 16.5%, Story Rich 10.3%, Anime 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A surreal psychological horror game that uses time-loop mechanics to explore a mysterious, dreamlike hotel.
- #28 CHAOS;HEAD NOAH
79% 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 34.4%, Mystery 15.5%, Psychological Horror 12.8%, Gore 10.7%, Story Rich 8.6%
- #29 The Silver Case
80% matchVery Positive89% of 1,129 reviews2016
Dev: GRASSHOPPER MANUFACTURE INC.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
The Silver Case – the debut title from world-renowned developer SUDA51 has been fully remastered and localized to English for the first time ever!
Why similar: Visual Novel 23%, Mystery 16.5%, Detective 15%, Psychological Horror 11.3%, Psychological 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A stylish detective mystery that delves into a surreal and dark conspiracy within a futuristic city.
- #30 STEINS;GATE 0
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 8,091 reviews2018
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 125.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
If you can't save the one you love… How can you save humanity? Sequel to the visual novel cult classic. Experience an alternate worldline of STEINS;GATE.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.5%, Story Rich 14.3%, Time Travel 9% ★, Anime 7.9%, Psychological Horror 5%
- #31 Banebush
76% matchVery Positive95% of 2,161 reviews2024
Dev: Hinterland Mood
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Banebush is a nonlinear and very red visual novel in the horror genre. Do you dare to step into a fairy tale if it turns out to be reality? 💀
Why similar: Visual Novel 40.4%, Psychological Horror 21.4%, Story Rich 10.7%, Violent 8.1%, Horror 5.3%
- #32 Folie Fatale
77% 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: Visual Novel 30.9%, Psychological Horror 20%, Mystery 16.1%, Story Rich 6%, Anime 5.4%
- #33 PARANORMASIGHT: The Mermaid's Curse
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 2,186 reviews2026
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 13.8 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Will you survive the curse together this summer? A new supernatural mystery adventure begins, telling a bittersweet story of the passions of youth featuring new locations, new legends and a new cast of characters.
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.3%, Mystery 19.6%, Gore 10.8%, Violent 10.2%, Adventure 8.9%
- #34 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.7 Minagoroshi
77% 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 26.4%, Mystery 16.4%, Psychological Horror 15.7%, Story Rich 8%, Gore 7.6%
- #35 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.6 Tsumihoroboshi
76% 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 32.4%, Mystery 16.3%, Psychological Horror 14.7%, Story Rich 7.4%, Gore 7.1%
- #36 The Chrono Jotter
75% matchVery Positive94% of 2,231 reviews2021
Dev: Orca LayoutPub: 2P Games
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Rewind time to save your girlfriend in a twisted high school death game. A gripping yuri visual novel: Investigate brutal murders, unravel psychological horrors, and fight for a forbidden love that defies death itself.
Why similar: Visual Novel 24.8%, Detective 15.8%, Mystery 14.7%, Psychological Horror 10.6%, Story Rich 8.7%
- #37 Sunlight Scream
75% matchVery Positive84% of 81 reviews2023
Dev: Faithy Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
The hero moves to a new city. However, along with him comes a masked killer who begins to kill his friends one by one... Make decisions to build your adventure. Can you stop him before it's too late?
Why similar: Visual Novel 24.3%, Detective 16.2%, Mystery 15.1%, Psychological Horror 13.5%, Story Rich 8.1%
- #38 The House in Fata Morgana: A Requiem for Innocence
74% 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 41.2%, Gore 12.9%, Violent 11.2%, Adventure 10.5%, Story Rich 10.3%
- #39 Doki Doki Literature Club Plus!
72% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 30,999 reviews2021
Dev: Team SalvatoPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 81.7 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Welcome to the club! Write poems for your crush and experience the terror of school romance in this critically-acclaimed psychological horror story.
Why similar: Visual Novel 34.3%, Psychological Horror 27.3%, Gore 7.5%, Anime 7.3%, Story Rich 7.3%
- #40 STEINS;GATE: My Darling's Embrace
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,820 reviews2019
Dev: MAGES. Inc.Pub: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 12.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Fall in love with the lab members all over again in this sweet and slapstick romantic comedy!
Why similar: Visual Novel 69.7%, Adventure 11.1%, Anime 9.6%, Story Rich 4.6%, Dating Sim 2.6%
- #41 Higurashi When They Cry Hou+
72% 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: Visual Novel 33.3%, Psychological 16.9%, Gore 8.3%, Violent 7.5%, Adventure 7.5%
- #42 Trick and Treat - Visual Novel
73% 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 55.3%, Anime 13.3%, Psychological Horror 6.5%, Mystery 4.4%, Horror 4.3%
- #43 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.5 Meakashi
73% 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 28.6%, Psychological Horror 16.7%, Mystery 16.2%, Story Rich 7.3%, Gore 7.2%
- #44 Break Wolf
70% matchVery Positive99% of 161 reviews2025
Dev: RE Atelier
Windows
"Have we all been acting waywardly?" An Adventure RPG that deals with the life and death of wayward humans, striving to escape a syndicate that creates monsters.
Why similar: Story Rich 20.6%, Gore 16.6%, Violent 15.5%, Anime 10.4%, Atmospheric 10%
- #45 Urban Myth Dissolution Center
70% 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: Visual Novel 31.1%, Psychological Horror 18.3%, Mystery 17.7%, Detective 11.7%, Story Rich 8.7%
- #46 The Hungry Lamb: Traveling in the Late Ming Dynasty
68% matchVery Positive95% of 59,133 reviews2024
Dev: 零创游戏(ZerocreationGame)
Windows
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 24.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
He is a bandit who sells lives. She is a mute girl seeking revenge. In a famine-ravaged ancient China, a ruthless trafficker escorts four girls to a demon's feast. But when a deadly secret is revealed, a cold transaction turns into a journey of redemption. A dark visual novel about an unlikely bond.
Why similar: Visual Novel 44%, Psychological Horror 13.6%, Mystery 11.6%, Story Rich 10.8%, Anime 5.9%
- #47 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.8 Matsuribayashi
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 795 reviews2020
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.3 hrsMean: 75.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 42%, Psychological Horror 24.8%, Adventure 9.9%, Story Rich 7.7%, Anime 5%
- #48 Yet Another Killing Game
69% matchVery Positive98% of 229 reviews2025
Dev: Soulseer Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
You wake up in a house, alone with two beautiful girls... But no one is allowed to leave until one of you DIES. Why is this happening? What is the purpose of this “killing game”? But most importantly...WHO SHOULD DIE?!
Why similar: Visual Novel 28.2%, Mystery 19.5%, Psychological Horror 18.5%, Story Rich 9.6%, Time Travel 7.5% ★
- #49 Cannibal Tales - Episode 1
71% matchVery Positive89% of 64 reviews2024
Dev: Fantastico Studio
Windows · Mac
Horror thriller visual novel written by cult director Ruggero Deodato. A cannibal story in three episodes. Embark on a challenging journey, where every choice has a price and consequences. Will you be able to reach the end without getting your soul devoured? Dare to decide!
Why similar: Visual Novel 30%, Psychological Horror 16.9%, Mystery 9%, Gore 8.9%, Violent 7.8%
- #50 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.3 Tatarigoroshi
71% 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 29.1%, Mystery 15.6%, Psychological 13.3%, Psychological Horror 10.2%, Story Rich 7.6%
- #51 Hashihime of the Old Book Town
70% 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: Visual Novel 47.7%, Story Rich 9.6%, Violent 9%, Gore 7.9%, Sexual Content 6.5%
- #52 Fate/stay night REMASTERED
66% 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 53%, Story Rich 12.8%, Anime 9.6%, Psychological Horror 7.8%, Adventure 5.7%
- #53 Higurashi When They Cry Hou - Ch.4 Himatsubushi
69% 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 30.1%, Mystery 15.9%, Psychological Horror 14.5%, Violent 8.3%, Story Rich 8.1%
- #54 WITCH ON THE HOLY NIGHT
65% 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 68.2%, Story Rich 10.8%, Anime 10%, Adventure 7.9%, Sexual Content 1.6%
- #55 Umineko When They Cry - Answer Arcs
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 1,497 reviews2017
Dev: 07th ExpansionPub: MangaGamer
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 17.1 hrsMean: 50.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
This is the 2nd half of the Umineko When They Cry sound novel series, featuring episodes 5 through 8. This steam version features multi-language options, swap-able renewed character sprites, as well as the original BGMs and un-cut content.
Why similar: Visual Novel 33.5%, Mystery 22.3%, Story Rich 10.3%, Detective 8.7%, Psychological Horror 6.7%
- #56 Tiny Bunny
64% matchVery Positive83% of 30,195 reviews2025
Dev: Saikono
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Tiny Bunny is a non-linear horror visual novel. Those, who have heard the voice of the forest, are beyond help.
Why similar: Visual Novel 36.9%, Psychological Horror 18.1%, Story Rich 11.6%, Gore 8%, Violent 6.3%
- #57 ASTLIBRA Revision
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 30,544 reviews2022
Dev: KEIZOPub: WhisperGames
Windows
Median: 19.3 hrsMean: 44.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Confront time and fate in the 2D action RPG, Astlibra Revision. Explore meticulously crafted worlds, fight brutal boss battles, and upgrade your skills to take down enemies lurking around every corner.
Why similar: Time Travel 57.2% ★, Story Rich 25%, Adventure 17.8%
- #58 Cooking Companions
67% matchVery Positive94% of 1,193 reviews2021
Dev: Deer Dream StudiosPub: Serenity Forge
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.5 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Unravel the mystery in this cute psychological horror VN, set deep in the woods of the Tatras Mountains. Will you wind up on the chopping block?
Why similar: Visual Novel 27.9%, Mystery 18.2%, Psychological Horror 17.2%, Story Rich 9.2%, Anime 6.6%
- #59 Spirit Hunter: NG
68% matchVery Positive90% of 282 reviews2019
Dev: EXPERIENCEPub: Aksys Games
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 20.4 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Beware the Creeping Horror... Face nightmares you thought were merely urban legends. Uncover a dark mystery, making deadly decisions just to survive. Play this chilling companion story to the award-winning Spirit Hunter: Death Mark game and bring the terror home.
Why similar: Visual Novel 43.4%, Gore 17.7%, Violent 16.1%, Adventure 13.5%, Horror 6%
- #60 Noel the Mortal Fate Complete Edition
68% matchVery Positive87% of 3,327 reviews2018
Dev: KANAWOPub: Vaka Game Magazine
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 15.1 hrs≥1hr: 74%
This is a tale of revenge — of a demon, a girl, and their companions. After seven years of development, the popular dark suspense adventure "Noel the Mortal Fate" finally arrives as a complete edition with all 13 seasons included, fully upgraded and with no extra charges.
Why similar: Visual Novel 31.3%, Psychological Horror 17.5%, Story Rich 14.8%, Adventure 10.3%, Anime 10%
