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 the top visual novels on Steam. These rankings are based on the quality of the story, characters, and visual/audio presentation.
Aselia the Eternal -The Spirit of Eternity Sword-
Visual novels contain the most hidden gems in any category of game, and Aselia 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 many RPG 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.
Bad End Theater
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 out Bad 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 Theater oozes visual style, setting itself apart from the usual visual novel offerings with a dark, bleak, yet strangely appealing art style.
Amnesia: Memories
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: Memories is a title that would have gone under the radar for many gamers compared to more popular rival games, but it is worth the time for 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.
Aokana – Four Rhythms Across The Blue
Those looking for something a bit different should be sure to check out Aokana – 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 of Aokana wear 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.
Hatoful Boyfriend
Perhaps the most surreal, strange, and endearing visual novel on this list, Hatoful Boyfriend is 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 Boyfriend sees 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 Boyfriend has some impressively genuine scenes that may tug at a heartstring or two.