Summary
Visual novels are interactive story games, usually accompanied by anime-inspired visuals. Fans of this increasingly popular medium know that there are amazing stories embedded in these games. Steam has a varied library of visual novels in 2020 that fans of all genres can enjoy.
Due to the overwhelming number of visual novels on Steam, it is difficult for fans to know where to start. To get readers started, here are thetop visual novels on Steam. These rankings are based on the quality of the story, characters, and visual/audio presentation.
Updated November 12th, 2024, by Mara Cowley:Visual novels are perfect for fans of both video games and books, as these games masterfully combine both. With the wide range of genres and art directions they cover, there is something for everyone. With the winter months rolling in, now might be the perfect time to prepare for an amazing adventure while curled up on the sofa or bed with blankets and a mug of hot cocoa. This article already included an in-depth list of fantastic visual novels across a wide range of genres, but this was still only the tip of the iceberg for this popular genre. As such, this article has been updated to include even more of thebest visual novels on Steam, ensuring there is more for everyone.
November 3rd, 2011
Genre(s)
JRPG, Strategy
Visual novels contain the most hidden gems in any category of game, andAselia the Eternal -The Spirit of Eternity Sword-is one of these games. Not merely content with giving only text for players to read, it also contains manyRPG elements, challenging players to think strategically, engage in combat, and develop their characters' levels.
Taking place in an original fantasy world, players take on the role Yuuto, whose sister Kaori is held hostage in this new world. It is down to Yuuto to save her and the land. It is a more ambitious approach to the visual novel genre, and it definitely pays off.
October 26th, 2021
Story rich, Romance, Fantasy
Not all visual novels have a heavy focus on romance or relationships. Those looking for something that’s a bit more rooted in mystery and excitement should check outBad End Theater. This colorful, video game-esque visual novel has players making decisions in order to protect (or hinder) a cast of characters. The choices made can affect the story of each individual involved and players will have to go through multiple storylines to see the fate of each cast member present.
Bad End Theateroozes visual style, setting itself apart from the usual visual novel offerings with a dark, bleak, yet strangely appealing art style.
August 25th, 2015
Anime, Otome
Visual novels and romance are two genres that go hand in hand together, as they provide the best medium for narrating a compelling love story.Amnesia: Memoriesis a title that would have gone under the radar for many gamers compared to more popular rival games, but it is worth the timefor otome gamers.
The Heroine loses her memories, but in order to save her life she must hide her amnesia. She finds herself entangled in complex relationships with five different men, all hosting unique personalities and looks. It’s up to the player to choose which path she will take as she pieces back together her missing memories.
September 27th, 2019
Anime, Adventure, Sports
Those looking for something a bit different should be sure to check outAokana - Four Rhythms Across The Blue. This visual novel is one of the best-rated on the Steam platform and although it does feature some romance elements, its main focus is on an interesting new futuristic sport. Characters in the world ofAokanawear special Anti-Graviton shoes and battle against one another to be the best at a game called Flying Circus.
This visual novel features some impressive art and a unique premise that should keep players hooked.
Perhaps the most surreal, strange, and endearing visual novel on this list,Hatoful Boyfriendis a cult classic that spread like wildfire across the VN genre. Those who haven’t had a chance to place this insanely odd adventure should put it at the top of their list. With situations that are rather comical and an array of downright emotional scenes,Hatoful Boyfriendsees players romancing a “flock” of potential suitors.
Although it’s perhaps not the best title on this list in terms of writing and direction,Hatoful Boyfriendhas some impressively genuine scenes that maytug at a heartstring or two.
March 4th, 2016
Dark, Psychological Horror
The title of this game may make it seem like just another romance visual novel, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.Cupiddefies the genre tropes of most VNs,delving into darkand disturbing topics most other VN titles would shy away from, which helps to serve the grizzly story.
After the passing of her best friend, Rosa investigates her husband Guilleme, certain that he is the culprit, and wanting to avenge her friend. But there is more to him than meets the eye and cannot be killed by ordinary means. Vying with his supernatural abilities and her own dark desires, Rosa and the players will be put through a test of courage and willpower.
Dead by Daylightisan asymmetrical gamein which one Killer is tasked with slaying four Survivors, whose goal it is to escape the trial by completing objectives, or being the last one standing and fleeing through the hatch. It is a competitive multiplayer through and through, with strong elements of horror. Surely no one wants to woo these weapon-wielding maniacs…
But as it turns out many people do, asHooked on Youwas released to great success. Four Killers (Huntress, Trapper, Wraith, and Spirit) have decided they need a little R&R and retreated to an island where the player finds themselves. The player can romance one of these eligible Killers in a fun and amusing new twist on the famous horror game. However, those who do play can never look at those Killers inDead by Daylightthe same again.
January 20th, 2016
Do not be deceived by the simple anime graphics often used to convey stories of sweet romance and friendships in the visual novel genre, asSicknessis an aptly named game that has gone unnoticed by many visual novel fans.
The main character’s normal life is disrupted by a series of unfortunate events in his life, such as the passing away of his parents and the development of the titular sickness. Now he is submerged in a life of violence and crime, with disturbing scenes that are certainly not for those looking for a more light-hearted adventure. But those who are looking for something gritty with more depth should jump straight intoSicknessand experience the horrors within.
December 9th, 2017
Post-Apocalyptic Adventure
The main character awakens to a mysterious girl standing above him, sharing the dreadful news that all other life on Earth has ended, and it is just the two of them. The pair decide to set out together and explore the world, but Asagiri has a purpose in life.
In what seems like a reference to a certain biblical figure, Asagiri must die over and over again in order to atone for the sins of humanity. Kyoka witnesses her suffering over and over, so he takes it upon himself to try and teach her happiness even when the world has ended. It’s a tragic story that tackles serious and heavy topics. The art style is beautiful and deceptively cutesy for such a dark and heart-breaking game.
The studio Draw Distance is responsible for some bloody good visual novels, includingCoteries of New York.This title isset in White Wolf’s World of Darkness, and deals with vampires. Set in the Camarilla city of New York, a fledgling vampire who belongs to one of three clans embarks on a journey. Their goal is to become an accepted member of the vampire community, gathering a group of allies known as a coterie.
The game features a gorgeous art style, a plot full of political intrigue, and a bloody good cast of vampires. They all serve to make this visual novel one that players can sink their teeth into. With multiple paths and endings, it is ripe for numerous playthroughs.
