Visual novels have been gaining popularity in America, with more and more Japanese and Western developers exploring this unique genre. These interactive stories captivate players by combining the power of text with visually engaging elements. If you’re new to visual novels and curious about where to start, this guide is for you. Join me as we explore some of my all-time favorite visual novels, carefully chosen with the help of Game Informer editors and interns.
Zero Escape: 999 and Virtue’s Last Reward
Platforms: 999 (DS, iOS*), Virtue’s Last Reward (3DS, Vita)
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In 999, you assume the role of Junpei, a college student kidnapped and trapped on a sinking cruise ship. Alongside eight other captives, you must participate in the “Nonary Game” to earn your freedom. The game presents a mix of escape-the-room puzzles and captivating narrative that branches out based on your choices. The characters in 999 and its sequel, Virtue’s Last Reward, break away from typical archetypes, making them intriguing and worth exploring. These novels offer unique structures that enhance the storytelling experience and keep players engaged.
(Note: It is recommended to play 999 before Virtue’s Last Reward, and avoid the stripped-down iOS version of 999.)
Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney series
Platforms: DS, 3DS, WiiWare, iOS, Android
Step into the shoes of rookie defense attorney Phoenix Wright as you investigate crime scenes and argue your cases in court. The Ace Attorney series delivers over-the-top courtroom drama, lovable characters, and thrilling contradictions. The gameplay primarily focuses on courtroom battles, where you must present evidence and logic to dismantle witnesses’ statements. What starts as simple cases often evolve into grand and unexpected scenarios, keeping the excitement flowing. With a cast of memorable characters, this series is a must-play for visual novel enthusiasts.
Frankenstein and 80 Days
Platforms: Frankenstein (iOS, Android), 80 Days (iOS, Android, Kindle)
Inkle, a developer known for its unique adaptations of classic stories, offers fresh takes on visual novels. In Frankenstein, you assume the role of Victor and make choices that affect the story’s direction. 80 Days takes you on a captivating adventure around the world, allowing you to meet and interact with people in different places. Both visual novels provide a personalized experience and offer replay value.
Steins;Gate
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Platforms: PC (coming to PS3 and Vita in 2015)
Embark on a time-traveling adventure with Rintaro Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist who stumbles upon a time machine capable of sending texts to the past. Steins;Gate stands out as a pure visual novel experience with no gameplay elements. The story revolves around Okabe’s cell phone, and your choices in responding to calls and messages shape the narrative. Unravel the mysteries and meet the diverse characters in this fantastic visual novel, which also has a well-received anime adaptation.
(Up next: Danganronpa, Gamebooks, and more…)
Danganronpa Trigger Happy Havoc and Danganronpa 2 Goodbye Despair
Platforms: Vita
Prepare for a disturbing yet captivating experience as you find yourself trapped with other students who must kill one another to escape. Danganronpa combines social interaction with intense class trials, where you uncover the truth behind each murder. Its engrossing storytelling and memorable plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat.
BlazBlue and Persona 4 Arena
Platforms: BlazBlue series (PS3, Xbox 360, PSP, 3DS, Vita, PS4, Xbox One), Persona 4 Arena and Persona 4 Arena Ultimax (PS3, Xbox 360)
While primarily known as excellent fighting games, both the BlazBlue and Persona 4 Arena series present extensive story modes that adopt visual novel elements. Immerse yourself in the unique narratives of these games and enjoy the character development as you progress through branching paths and multiple endings. BlazBlue offers an engaging story with memorable original characters, while Persona 4 Arena welcomes fans of the Persona series with a familiar cast.
Sorcery! and Lone Wolf
Platforms: Sorcery (iOS, Android, Kindle), Lone Wolf (iOS)
Adapted from gamebooks, Inkle’s Sorcery! and Forge Reply’s Lone Wolf offer a blend of narrative storytelling and RPG combat. Immerse yourself in the adventures as the stories unfold before your eyes. These visual novels provide all the benefits of a traditional narrative while presenting the combat mechanics in a more approachable manner.
Hate Story, Don’t Take It Personally, Babe, It Just Ain’t Your Story, and Digital: A Love Story
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Platforms: All three on PC, Mac, and Linux
Christine Love, a master of storytelling, tackles human relationships and modern technology in her compelling visual novels. With unique premises and LGBTQ characters, her stories invite exploration. Don’t Take It Personally, Babe, It Just Ain’t Your Story allows you to roleplay as a teacher with access to a secret social media message board, while Hate Story takes you on a journey to a colony ship controlled by two A.I. personalities. Digital: A Love Story and Don’t Take It Personally, Babe, It Just Ain’t Your Story are free to download and offer hours of thought-provoking experiences.
Device 6
Platforms: iOS
Device 6, developed by Simogo, blurs the lines between visual novel and puzzle game. It presents a captivating narrative experience where you read text, swipe through images, click on pictures, and even rotate your device to simulate character movements. The clever use of sound enhances the immersive atmosphere of each scene. Device 6 offers a unique and engaging storytelling experience that keeps players hooked.
FAQs
Q: What are visual novels?
A: Visual novels are interactive stories that combine text and visuals to engage and captivate players. They often feature branching narratives, allowing choices to shape the direction of the story.
Q: Are visual novels only available in Japanese?
A: No, there are numerous visual novels available in English and other languages. The popularity of visual novels has grown globally, leading to localization efforts by various developers.
Q: Can you recommend visual novels for beginners?
A: Yes, if you’re new to visual novels, the recommended titles in this guide serve as excellent starting points. They offer engaging stories, intriguing characters, and gameplay elements that enhance the overall experience.
Conclusion
Visual novels provide a unique and immersive storytelling experience. With a wide range of genres and styles, there’s a visual novel out there for everyone. Dive into these captivating narratives and explore the possibilities of interactive storytelling. Share your experiences in the comments below and continue to discover the wonders of the visual novel genre.
For more on visual novels, check out Kim Wallace’s thoughts on the genre’s state in early 2014. And don’t forget to visit Wqaindia for more captivating articles and insights into the world of visual novels.
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