This article highlights exceptional visual novels and adventure games available on the Nintendo Switch in 2024. The selection spans various regions and release years, offering a diverse range of experiences. The order is not ranked.
Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99) + Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection
The 2024 release of Emio – The Smiling Man is a stunning addition to the Famicom Detective Club series. This lavishly produced title offers a compelling narrative and a shockingly good conclusion, justifying its M rating. For those wanting to experience the series' origins, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection is also recommended.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action ($14.99)
A consistently acclaimed title, VA-11 Hall-A shines with its narrative, music, art style, and memorable characters. Its engaging gameplay loop of mixing drinks and influencing lives makes it a highly recommended experience regardless of genre preference.
The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition ($39.99)
This definitive edition of The House in Fata Morgana is a masterful storytelling experience. As a pure visual novel, it delivers a captivating gothic horror narrative and unforgettable musical score.
Coffee Talk Episode 1+2 ($12.99 + $14.99)
While sold separately, Coffee Talk Episodes 1 and 2 are bundled in North America. These relaxing games offer charming pixel art, enjoyable music, and engaging stories centered around a coffee shop.
Type-Moon's Visual Novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night, and Mahoyo (Variable)
This entry encompasses Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Mahoyo. These lengthy visual novels are classics in the genre, with Fate/stay night serving as an excellent entry point, and Tsukihime's remake being highly recommended.
PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)
PARANORMASIGHT is a surprising standout, featuring a captivating narrative, strong character development, and innovative mechanics. This mystery adventure game is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Gnosia ($24.99)
Blending adventure and visual novel elements, Gnosia is a sci-fi social deduction game where players identify imposters. Its engaging gameplay and replayability make it a unique and rewarding experience.
Steins;Gate Series (Variable)
The Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, is a fantastic introduction to visual novels, especially for anime fans. While the original version is hoped for, Elite is a strong recommendation.
AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)
These two adventure games from Spike Chunsoft boast exceptional storytelling, art, and character design. They are considered high-quality titles worthy of their price point.
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD is an unforgettable adventure game with multiple endings, shifting between unsettling horror and heartwarming moments.
Ace Attorney Series (Variable)
The entire Ace Attorney series is now available on Switch, offering a comprehensive collection of beloved adventure games. The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is suggested as a strong entry point.
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark, NG, and Death Mark II (Variable)
The Spirit Hunter trilogy combines horror adventure and visual novel elements with a striking art style. While graphically intense, the series delivers compelling stories and excellent localization.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)
Concluding the list is 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, a sci-fi masterpiece blending real-time strategy battles with a captivating narrative. Its high quality makes it a recommended experience.
This list is not exhaustive, and further suggestions are welcomed. A separate list of otome games is also in progress.
