- #1 Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 45,237 reviews2019
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 26.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Become Phoenix Wright and experience the thrill of battle as you fight to save your innocent clients in a court of law. Play all 14 episodes, spanning the first three games, in one gorgeous collection.
Why similar: Detective 35.2%, Crime 15.2%, Visual Novel 13.2%, Mystery 11.8%, Anime 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive experience for contradiction-based gameplay where you must present evidence to expose lies in a courtroom setting.
- #2 AI: The Somnium Files
96% matchVery Positive91% of 9,439 reviews2019
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 15.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Play as detective Kaname Date on the case of an elusive serial killer in this thrilling, sci-fi murder mystery.
Why similar: Detective 33.9%, Visual Novel 17.1%, Mystery 15.4%, Anime 12.6%, Story Rich 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery visual novel that combines deep investigation with unique logic-based puzzle segments.
- #3 The Case of the Golden Idol
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 11,013 reviews2022
Dev: Color Gray GamesPub: Playstack
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 8.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A new kind of detective game that allows you to think and investigate freely. Discover clues surrounding 12 strange and gruesome deaths and build your own theory. Pick your suspect, deduce the motive, unmask the awful truth.
Why similar: Detective 32.5%, Crime 16.6%, Mystery 14.9%, Thriller 12.3%, Story Rich 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game excels at the deduction mechanic, requiring players to piece together clues and names to solve complex murder mysteries.
- #4 Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc
95% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 38,953 reviews2016
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 22.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Investigate murders, search for clues and talk to your classmates to prepare for trial. There, you'll engage in deadly wordplay, going back and forth with suspects. Dissect their statements and fire their words back at them to expose their lies! There's only one way to survive—pull the trigger.
Why similar: Detective 36.8%, Visual Novel 16.8%, Mystery 16%, Anime 14.1%, Story Rich 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: It features high-stakes mystery trials that require you to use collected evidence to refute the claims of others, mirroring the core loop of Staffer Case.
- #5 The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles
94% matchVery Positive94% of 9,542 reviews2021
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 34.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Immerse yourself in a dramatic yet charming and witty world of evidence-gathering, deduction and courtroom battles with this double-pack of the adventures of rookie lawyer Ryunosuke.
Why similar: Detective 31.1%, Text-Based 16.7%, Visual Novel 15.4%, Mystery 13.1%, Anime 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: It refines the classic logic-based courtroom gameplay with a historical setting and deep, character-driven mysteries.
- #6 Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy
94% matchVery Positive88% of 4,492 reviews2024
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 35.7 hrsMean: 54.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Join rookie attorney Apollo Justice and his mentor, the legendary Phoenix Wright, in this collection of 3 games! This title features 16 episodes (including previously DLC-only episodes) and supports English, French, German, Japanese Korean, and Traditional and Simplified Chinese.
Why similar: Detective 29.8%, Crime 15.7%, Visual Novel 14.7%, Mystery 10.3%, Anime 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Continues the tradition of finding contradictions in testimony, providing a familiar and satisfying detective experience.
- #7 Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 8,683 reviews2023
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, the classic puzzle-solving mystery adventure directed by Ace Attorney creator Shu Takumi, is back! This long-awaited HD remaster features upgraded visuals and sound and new gallery content.
Why similar: Detective 37%, Mystery 18.5%, Story Rich 10.8%, Puzzle 10%, Visual Novel 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a brilliant supernatural mystery where you manipulate objects to solve crimes and uncover the truth.
- #8 Ace Attorney Investigations Collection
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 4,875 reviews2024
Dev: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 32.7 hrsMean: 35.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Miles Edgeworth's dramatic turnabouts take center stage! Experience both Ace Attorney Investigations games in one gorgeous collection! Investigate crime scenes and solve tough, intriguing cases through logic and deduction. When Edgeworth's past and present collide, his future begins!
Why similar: Detective 26.2%, Crime 21.2%, Mystery 12.2%, Visual Novel 11.7%, Text-Based 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on crime scene investigation and logic puzzles, making it a perfect mechanical match for Staffer Case.
- #9 Urban Myth Dissolution Center
91% matchVery Positive88% of 6,362 reviews2025
Dev: HakababunkoPub: SHUEISHA GAMES
Windows
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Join forces with the psychic Director of the Urban Myth Dissolution Center and solve a variety of cases involving cursed relics, rental properties with shady histories, and dimensional anomalies. Monstrous oddities and otherworldly planes abound in this occult mystery adventure game!
Why similar: Detective 24.1%, Visual Novel 18.3%, Text-Based 15.8%, Mystery 15.7%, Story Rich 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural investigation game that shares the visual novel aesthetic and focus on solving bizarre, occult-related cases.
- #10 PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo
91% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 7,313 reviews2023
Dev: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 8.8 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: Text-Based 22.3%, Visual Novel 20.1%, Mystery 16.1%, Anime 14.9%, Multiple Endings 11.7%
Why You'll Like It: A gripping supernatural visual novel that focuses on investigating urban legends and piecing together a complex mystery.
- #11 Return to Shironagasu Island
90% matchVery Positive94% of 4,299 reviews2020
Dev: ONIMUSHI HyogoPub: TABINOMICHI
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 13.9 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: Detective 23.4%, Visual Novel 22.2%, Mystery 19.6%, Anime 10.3%, Thriller 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric mystery visual novel that features an anime aesthetic and a focus on uncovering secrets in a confined location.
- #12 Tangle Tower
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 6,826 reviews2019
Dev: SFB Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.6 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Unravel a thrilling mystery by exploring a strange and twisted mansion, discovering curious clues, interrogating peculiar suspects and solving unique puzzles. Will you be able to uncover the secrets of Tangle Tower?
Why similar: Detective 34.4%, Crime 17%, Visual Novel 10.1%, Mystery 9.8%, Story Rich 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: Features detective work with a strong emphasis on interrogating suspects and linking clues to solve a murder.
- #13 Staffer Reborn
88% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 994 reviews2024
Dev: Team Tetrapod
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 1.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Staffer Reborn is a game of supernatural abilities and logical deduction set in 1960s America. It tells the story of a man trapped in a cycle of death and resurrection caused by his supernatural ability and the investigator who was recruited to help.
Why similar: Detective 17.5%, Crime 11.1%, Gothic 11.1% ★, Text-Based 9.7%, Cartoon 8%
Why You'll Like It: A direct follow-up that retains the core investigation and contradiction-finding mechanics of the original.
- #14 Staffer Retro : A Supernatural Mystery Quest
87% matchVery Positive90% of 1,235 reviews2026
Dev: Team Tetrapod
Windows · Mac
Staffer Retro is a mystery adventure game where you uncover past incidents related to ‘Mana’, the source of supernatural powers. Gather information through dialogue and exploration, and piece together clues found in documents to guide the choices of Verita Retro, the protagonist.
Why similar: Detective 23.7%, Crime 11.7%, Thriller 10.4%, Mystery 9.7%, Visual Novel 9%
Why You'll Like It: Shares the same supernatural mystery DNA and visual novel presentation as the seed game.
- #15 The Silver Case
89% matchVery Positive89% of 1,209 reviews2016
Dev: GRASSHOPPER MANUFACTURE INC.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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: Detective 20.4%, Crime 18.9%, Text-Based 11.8%, Mystery 9.9%, Visual Novel 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A stylized mystery investigation game with a unique narrative structure that appeals to fans of complex, text-heavy detective stories.
- #16 Murders on the Yangtze River
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 21,291 reviews2024
Dev: OMEGAMES STUDIO
Windows · Mac
Median: 11.4 hrsMean: 14.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
"Murders on Yangtze River" is an Ace Attorney-like detective game that takes you on a journey through early 20th century China as you solve a series of intriguing cases. Use your logical reasoning and deduction skills to uncover clues, interrogate suspects, and solve the mysteries.
Why similar: Detective 47.2%, Mystery 13.3%, Story Rich 10.7%, Puzzle 9.1%, Text-Based 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A detective game that emphasizes evidence collection and logical deduction in a historical Chinese setting.
- #17 Zero Escape: The Nonary Games
86% matchVery Positive93% of 7,427 reviews2017
Dev: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.
Windows
Median: 6.5 hrsMean: 21.7 hrs≥1hr: 90%
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 20.9%, Mystery 17.6%, Story Rich 12.2%, Multiple Endings 12.2%, Detective 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: Combines intense logic puzzles with a dark, supernatural-adjacent mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
- #18 Tyrion Cuthbert: Attorney of the Arcane
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,795 reviews2023
Dev: Diamondhenge Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 13.2 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
In Tyrion Cuthbert: Attorney of the Arcane, you play as a defense attorney who practices law in a world of fantasy and wizards. You must defend clients accused of various crimes committed using magic and use the rules of magic to prove them innocent.
Why similar: Visual Novel 23.4%, Mystery 19.3%, Detective 18.7%, Anime 17%, Story Rich 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fantasy-themed courtroom drama that uses logic-based gameplay to solve magical crimes.
- #19 The Sekimeiya: Spun Glass
85% matchVery Positive87% of 299 reviews2021
Dev: Trinitite Team
Windows · Mac · Linux
An intricate mystery visual novel. Search text, piece together clues, and jump around the story to unravel the tangled events within the sealed tower.
Why similar: Detective 33.2%, Mystery 15.9%, Visual Novel 14.5%, Text-Based 11.8%, Anime 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: A complex mystery visual novel that rewards players for paying close attention to narrative details and logical inconsistencies.
- #20 The Darkside Detective: A Fumble in the Dark
83% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,028 reviews2021
Dev: Spooky DoorwayPub: Akupara Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Delouse your room with sage and pack up your travel-sized ouija board, it’s time to re-enter Twin Lakes - America’s 34th most haunted city. Join Detective McQueen as he puzzles his way through 9 chilling cases, risking life and pixelated limb to solve the macabre mysteries that plague the poor town.
Why similar: Detective 31.1%, Text-Based 14.9%, Mystery 12.8%, Visual Novel 9.3%, Story Rich 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery game that balances humor with investigation and puzzle-solving.
- #21 The Incident at Galley House
81% matchVery Positive94% of 4,375 reviews2026
Dev: William RousPub: Evil Trout Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 93%
In 1936, something terrible happened at Galley House. Decades later, with a strange contraption that reveals echoes of the past, you must uncover the truth behind this grisly mystery. A new puzzle from the creators of The Roottrees are Dead.
Why similar: Detective 37%, Mystery 22.2%, Visual Novel 13.8%, Story Rich 9.4%, Puzzle 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-focused visual novel that incorporates puzzle elements and logical deduction to solve a central crime.
- #22 Detective Grimoire
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,625 reviews2014
Dev: SFB Games
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Detective Grimoire has been called to investigate a murder. The owner of a small tourist attraction, seemingly killed by the mythical creature his attraction is based around... Explore the area, inspect the crime scene, grill suspects, solve puzzles, hunt for clues & uncover the secret of the swamp!
Why similar: Detective 30.3%, Crime 19.1%, Visual Novel 12.5%, Mystery 9.8%, Story Rich 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A point-and-click mystery game that focuses on piecing together clues and interviewing suspects to solve a case.
- #23 GNOSIA
82% matchVery Positive94% of 5,158 reviews2022
Dev: Petit DepottoPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 15.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The Gnosia lie. Pretending to be human, they’ll get in close, trick and deceive, and then eliminate one victim at a time...
Why similar: Detective 29.2%, Visual Novel 18.5%, Mystery 16.3%, Anime 14.3%, Story Rich 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: A social deduction game that uses visual novel elements to create a tense, supernatural mystery experience.
- #24 The Murder Hotel
82% matchVery Positive93% of 73 reviews2025
Dev: Wegenbartho Games
Windows
Interrogate suspects, search for clues, & uncover a dastardly plot, as you solve a string of mystifying murders to help reluctant detective Ilmarinen escape the foreboding Fafnir Hotel.
Why similar: Detective 25.9%, Crime 17.7%, Mystery 11.9%, Visual Novel 11.8%, Text-Based 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery-focused visual novel that captures the same anime-style detective vibe as Staffer Case.
- #25 Little Locked Rooms
79% matchVery Positive87% of 150 reviews2024
Dev: riolucci
Windows · Linux
Grab your magnifying glass and peek inside a series of tiny dioramas filled with crimes and carefully crafted mysteries! Think outside the box and solve them all in this new brand of detective game!
Why similar: Detective 27.7%, Crime 12.4%, Mystery 12%, Visual Novel 11.8%, Text-Based 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: A mystery visual novel that focuses on logic and deduction within a confined, high-stakes environment.
- #26 Tokyo Detectives
81% matchMixed69% of 59 reviews2021
Dev: Rincho Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Detective Game. Murder Investigation. Interrogate witnesses. Rebut with evidence.
Why similar: Detective 30.5%, Crime 20.2%, Visual Novel 11.6%, Mystery 11.2%, Anime 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A detective-themed visual novel with a strong anime aesthetic and a focus on solving mysteries in a modern setting.
- #27 Trials of Innocence
77% matchVery Positive92% of 1,812 reviews2025
Dev: 猫龙游戏Pub: Right Mind
Windows
Median: 18.6 hrsMean: 21.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Trials of Innocence is an indie courtroom detective game. Step into the shoes of the main character, rookie lawyer Luna Ray, and navigate her journey through the legal world. Unravel a shocking conspiracy that changes the fate of many, including herself, and confront her inner choices.
Why similar: Detective 29.1%, Crime 18.8%, Visual Novel 11.8%, Mystery 11%, Anime 8.5%
- #28 LumineNight
78% matchVery Positive89% of 596 reviews2024
Dev: Spickasoft
Windows
LumineNight is a story-driven detective adventure. Play as Detective Foster and his daughter to solve a series of murders spanning a decade. Interrogate suspects, infiltrate locations, solve puzzles, and gather evidence from crime scenes. Uncover the dark truth behind these killings.
Why similar: Detective 30.7%, Mystery 12.9%, Visual Novel 11.1%, Anime 9.1%, Cartoony 8.4%
- #29 Mohism: Battle of Words
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 610 reviews2023
Dev: 玄镜工作室Pub: Yooreka Studio
Windows
Mohism: Battle of Words is a detective game set in the world of wuxia. The game follows Zhang Xiaochen, investigates unsolved cases and comes into his own as a hero. He must rely on his wits and razor-sharp tongue to best his opponents, find the culprit and ensure justice prevails!
Why similar: Detective 28.7%, Crime 16.9%, Visual Novel 14%, Mystery 11.3%, Anime 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A dialogue-heavy mystery game that uses logic-based confrontation to resolve conflicts.
- #30 Detective Butler: Maiden Voyage Murder
80% matchVery Positive82% of 312 reviews2017
Dev: Goldbar Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 28%
Follow Detective Butler and his sidekick Gilligan as they solve a locked-room murder during a haunted cruise ship's maiden voyage. Can you solve the mystery before Detective Butler reveals the answer?
Why similar: Detective 26.3%, Crime 18%, Text-Based 15.2%, Mystery 12.4%, Visual Novel 11.3%
Why You'll Like It: A classic detective visual novel that emphasizes evidence gathering and logical deduction.
- #31 Methods: The Canada Files
75% matchVery Positive96% of 408 reviews2026
Dev: LockedOn GamesPub: Erabit
Windows · Mac · Linux
Methods: The Canada Files is a mystery visual novel. You play as a team of eccentric detectives in a mysterious crime-solving competition. To solve each mystery, you must use your team member’s unique detective methods, refute faulty theories with evidence, and find out the truth!
Why similar: Detective 26%, Crime 21%, Visual Novel 10.8%, Cartoon 10.4%, Cartoony 9.1%
- #32 The Real Face of a VTuber
75% matchVery Positive92% of 340 reviews2026
Dev: 莉莉恩工作室Pub: WhisperGames
Windows
A narrative courtroom adventure all about VTubers! Players will take the role of prosecutor Justin Truth and investigate a murder at a VTuber agency, doing their best to uncover the identity of both the killer and VTuber's real face.
Why similar: Detective 27.2%, Crime 17.5%, Visual Novel 11.1%, Mystery 10.8%, Text-Based 8.1%
- #33 Root Double -Before Crime * After Days- Xtend Edition
78% matchVery Positive91% of 616 reviews2016
Dev: YetiPub: Sekai Project
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 14.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Rescue squad captain Watase Kasasagi wakes up without his memories in the middle of his most critical mission yet-- a nuclear meltdown at a research facility. In an unfamiliar place and without his years of training, he must rescue the survivors and escape...
Why similar: Visual Novel 30.2%, Anime 16.5%, Mystery 15.5%, Multiple Endings 12.8%, Story Rich 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: A supernatural mystery visual novel that features branching paths and deep, character-driven storytelling.
- #34 Turlock Holmes
77% matchVery Positive80% of 997 reviews2024
Dev: Find the Lamp GamesPub: Neverland Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A detective narrative puzzler without pre-set options! Raise your questions at will, and an AI-host will answer only with 'yes' or 'no.' Drive the investigation with your curiosity; the path to solving the mystery lies in questions you ask. Can you dig out the truth through your questions?
Why similar: Detective 31.2%, Crime 25.1%, Mystery 12.1%, Visual Novel 8.3%, Puzzle 6.9%
- #35 The Occult Detective
76% matchMostly Positive71% of 332 reviews2025
Dev: Battlecry Studio
Windows
A narrative detective game blended with supernatural elements. Play as a rookie investigator, discover vital clues in every case, dive into unscripted interrogations and uncover truths that break minds. But with each revelation, the world feels... less human.
Why similar: Detective 32.7%, Visual Novel 15.8%, Anime 12.4%, Mystery 11.8%, Story Rich 11%
- #36 DAEMON MASQUERADE
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 523 reviews2024
Dev: Callum Page
Windows · Mac · Linux
An anime-inspired supernatural detective game. Uncover the identities and powers of your adversaries using a conspiracy board full of evidence.
Why similar: Detective 40.4%, Mystery 16.1%, Visual Novel 13.2%, Anime 11.7%, Story Rich 9.3%
- #37 Paper Perjury
74% matchVery Positive89% of 235 reviews2024
Dev: Paper Cat Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
It all started with a simple robbery. When that thread was pulled, a tapestry of mysteries was revealed. Solve cases and outsmart criminals in a detective story full of lies, confessions, and maybe even a murder or two.
Why similar: Detective 32.5%, Crime 16.2%, Visual Novel 13%, Mystery 11.5%, Story Rich 8.3%
- #38 誰是犯案者 Who is the Criminal
76% matchVery Positive95% of 60 reviews2021
Dev: 莉莉恩工作室
Windows
Set in school life, “Who is the Criminal” is a text-based adventure game featuring comedian and inference elements. With inquiring suspects and debating with “evildoers”, he gathers pieces of puzzles and reveals what truly happens in every incident.
Why similar: Detective 25.3%, Crime 17.3%, Visual Novel 10.2%, Mystery 10%, Text-Based 8%
- #39 Suhoshin
73% matchVery Positive90% of 175 reviews2022
Dev: No More 500
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 8.8 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Suhoshin is a 2D Visual Novel set in the medieval Joseon period of Korea. While investigating a series of mysterious murders, you will have to make choices that will lead you down different paths toward different endings.
Why similar: Detective 18.6%, Visual Novel 13.7%, Thriller 13.4%, Mystery 12.8%, Text-Based 12.8%
- #40 The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog
70% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 25,261 reviews2023
Dev: SEGA
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Sonic the Hedgehog...was murdered!? Get to the bottom of the mystery in this brand-new adventure!
Why similar: Detective 35.9%, Visual Novel 20.1%, Mystery 17.6%, Text-Based 15.7%, Funny 5.1%
- #41 Jenny LeClue - Detectivu
73% matchVery Positive87% of 1,390 reviews2019
Dev: Mografi
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
JENNY LECLUE is an adventure game focused on exploration, story, and character, featuring dozens of characters to meet, mysteries and puzzles to solve across a vibrant, atmospheric world.
Why similar: Detective 24.5%, Crime 18.4%, Mystery 10.8%, Cartoon 9.5%, Visual Novel 8.1%
- #42 Occult Crime Police
72% matchVery Positive93% of 168 reviews2021
Dev: Eggcorn Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
The Truth Is Pretty Out There. Only you can decipher the mystery of Boomtown USA. Comb a mysterious government base for evidence, investigate the set of a ghost hunt, and unravel the truth, no matter how ridiculous it may be!
Why similar: Detective 32%, Mystery 13.5%, Visual Novel 11.8%, Cartoon 9.9%, Anime 8.5%
- #43 Kindaichi Mystery Series: The Honjin Murders
72% matchMostly Positive72% of 185 reviews2025
Dev: coly Inc.
Windows · Mac
Famous detective Kosuke Kindaichi's first case, the Honjin Murder Mystery. Honjin descendant Kenzo Ichiyanagi and his new wife Katsuko Kubo lay dead in a bed of blood on the night of their wedding. Kosuke Kindaichi searches for the truth about this locked room murder mystery. However...
Why similar: Detective 30.6%, Mystery 15.5%, Visual Novel 14%, Text-Based 13.7%, Anime 8.2%
- #44 Methods: The Illusion Murders
71% matchVery Positive86% of 105 reviews2024
Dev: LockedOn GamesPub: Erabit
Windows · Mac · Linux
Detective Red July must stop a serial killer who patterns his murders after optical illusions in this mystery visual novel set in the world of Methods.
Why similar: Detective 20.7%, Crime 15.2%, Text-Based 12.1%, Visual Novel 9.5%, Mystery 8.3%
- #45 Type-NOISE: Shonen Shojo
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 140 reviews2025
Dev: DankHeartsPub: WhisperGames
Windows
Type-NOISE: Shonen Shojo is a multi-ending mystery adventure game. A group of boys and girls who have lost their memories gather in a “Tokyo” that is both familiar and unfamiliar. They must trace their lost memories to escape the bizarre labyrinths. Are they prepared to confront their “true selves”?
Why similar: Detective 32.2%, Visual Novel 15.9%, Anime 12.7%, Multiple Endings 10.4%, Mystery 10.2%
- #46 A Case of Fraud
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 573 reviews2025
Dev: Hesperus Games
Windows · Mac
A short, non-linear detective adventure where every clue is hidden in plain sight. Carefully read and cross-reference documents to unravel a CEO’s disappearance and expose a case of fraud.
Why similar: Detective 41.3%, Crime 25.1%, Mystery 16%, Puzzle 7.6%, Story Rich 4.5%
- #47 No Case Should Remain Unsolved
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 10,733 reviews2024
Dev: Somi
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 2.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Twelve years after Senior Inspector Jeon Gyeong's retirement, she is visited by a young police officer: a woman who pleads with her to reexamine Seowon's case. But with each uncovered memory, only one thing becomes clear: everyone in Seowon's vicinity was lying.
Why similar: Detective 27%, Text-Based 17.2%, Visual Novel 15.7%, Story Rich 9.5%, Multiple Endings 8.2%
- #48 Sherlock Holmes: Crimes and Punishments
71% matchVery Positive89% of 8,060 reviews2014
Dev: Frogwares
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Become the most celebrated detective of all time: Sherlock Holmes! Use your impressive talents as a detective to solve six thrilling and varied cases: murders, missing persons, spectacular thefts and numerous investigations that sometimes lead you into the realms of the fantastic.
Why similar: Detective 47.9%, Crime 20.5%, Mystery 13.5%, Story Rich 5.5%, Puzzle 4.6%
- #49 The Kuon Island Nursery Rhyme Murders: Case Notes
70% matchMixed59% of 88 reviews2026
Dev: RenkaPub: Renka BH1
Windows
A storm-lashed island, a nursery rhyme that foretells death, seven prodigies, serial murders, modern locked-room mysteries, classic locked-room mysteries, astrology, a jigsaw of flesh and blood, a survivor—and one lie told only so you would see this story.
Why similar: Detective 30.8%, Visual Novel 14.3%, Mystery 12.9%, Crime 11.4%, Text-Based 9.9%
- #50 Mind Diver
67% matchVery Positive95% of 383 reviews2025
Dev: Indoor SunglassesPub: PLAYISM
Windows
Investigate a broken mind to unravel a twisted case. Deduce the truth. Restore lost memories. Listen to private conversations. Draw your own conclusions. Mind Diver is a murder mystery, where the victim is love.
Why similar: Detective 27.8%, Crime 20.8%, Thriller 13%, Mystery 12.6%, Story Rich 7.4%
- #51 The Roottrees are Dead
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 10,219 reviews2025
Dev: Evil Trout Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A genealogical mystery straight out of 1998. Scour the early Internet for clues, uncover hidden connections, and piece together the family tree behind the secretive Roottree Corporation.
Why similar: Detective 51.5%, Mystery 21.1%, Puzzle 10.4%, Story Rich 8.2%, Atmospheric 6.5%
- #52 ステータス確認探偵
67% matchVery Positive96% of 96 reviews2025
Dev: 風切羽
Windows
Check the suspect's status and solve the mystery! A status-checking mystery ADV in which a rookie detective takes on difficult cases that take place in a fantasy world.
Why similar: Mystery 42.5%, Visual Novel 32.9%, Adventure 13.8%, Story Rich 10.8%
- #53 The Specter's Desire
69% matchVery Positive98% of 56 reviews2024
Dev: Themisian
Windows · Mac
This year's Desire Hierarchy has begun. The stakes are now deadly. Hop into The Specter's Desire, a Visual Novel in which you play against the city's top talents to save your parents. Includes puzzling gameplay that has you tearing down arguments, hatching schemes, and revealing the truth!
Why similar: Detective 24.4%, Text-Based 16.1%, Visual Novel 13%, Crime 8.7%, Thriller 7.6%
- #54 The Wild Case
69% matchVery Positive86% of 257 reviews2021
Dev: Specialbit Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 4.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
The Wild Case is a 2D first-person point-and-click adventure. In this story-focused adventure, players meet a cast of colorful characters, experience mysterious encounters, and solve puzzles to progress through the game.
Why similar: Detective 32%, Text-Based 16.1%, Thriller 11.6%, Mystery 9.5%, Story Rich 8.5%
- #55 TOKYO PSYCHODEMIC
71% matchMostly Negative31% of 106 reviews2024
Dev: GRAVITY GAME ARISEPub: GRAVITY
Windows
5% of murder cases remain unsolved... it's time to open up these cases and confront the supernatural with forensic science! Solve cases by analyzing evidence and consulting with specialists. Enter a world that artfully blends 2D illustration and real-life visuals!
Why similar: Detective 23%, Crime 18.9%, Text-Based 12.9%, Mystery 9.5%, Visual Novel 9.4%
- #56 Murder on the Marine Express
68% matchVery Positive93% of 80 reviews2021
Dev: 1564 Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
A mystery visual novel taking place aboard the underwater train Marine Express. Follow student Ranko Togawa on her quest to find the culprit on the murder of an accompanying teacher... with lots of surprises along the way!
Why similar: Detective 35.5%, Visual Novel 15.8%, Mystery 14.3%, Text-Based 14.1%, Anime 10%
- #57 Unheard - Voices of Crime
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 34,052 reviews2019
Dev: NEXT Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
What if you could hear every word spoken at the scene of a crime? “Acoustic Detectives” wanted for testing our new device! Return aurally to crime scenes and use the voices you hear to identify potential suspects and solve the mysteries. What is it that’s connecting these seemingly unrelated cases?
Why similar: Detective 27.9%, Crime 23.1%, Thriller 14.6%, Mystery 12.3%, Story Rich 7.1%
- #58 HoloTrials: Case Covered
63% matchVery Positive99% of 349 reviews2026
Dev: VTAC GamesPub: holo Indie
Windows · Mac
A graffiti mocking the Student Council President appears on the walls, and your best friend is the prime suspect! Play as a student detective in HoloTrials: Case Covered. Investigate the high school campus, face off against your rivals, and clear her name in this legal mystery.
Why similar: Detective 36.4%, Visual Novel 18.3%, Mystery 14.9%, Anime 13.6%, Exploration 5%
- #59 Star Apprentice: Magical Murder Mystery
67% matchVery Positive95% of 183 reviews2021
Dev: Will-o-Works
Windows
Star Apprentice: Magical Murder Mystery is a danmaku-detective game that combines point-and-click style deduction with high octane bullet hell gameplay. Find evidence, interrogate suspects, and refute contradictions to solve the case!
Why similar: Detective 40.2%, Mystery 17.3%, Visual Novel 16.6%, Anime 13.8%, Story Rich 10%
