Following my exploration of the best Switch party games in 2024, the phenomenal release of Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club inspired me to compile a list of the top visual novels and adventure games currently available on the Switch. This encompasses both pure visual novels and adventure games with visual novel elements. The selection includes titles from various regions and release years, offering a diverse range of experiences. As always, the order is arbitrary.
Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99) + Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection
Nintendo's 2021 remakes of the Famicom Detective Club games were a revelation, though the lack of a physical release was initially disappointing. The 2024 release of Emio – The Smiling Man rectifies this, offering a stunning new entry in the series. It's a true sequel, and its lavish production is breathtaking. The shockingly good ending fully justifies its mature rating. This unexpected addition to my top games of 2024 is a testament to Nintendo's quality. Download the demo today!
For those preferring to play the originals first, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection is readily available. Fans of classic adventure game design and gameplay will find much to appreciate.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action ($14.99)
A perennial favorite, VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action consistently appears on my "best of" lists. Its compelling story, memorable music, unique aesthetic, and exceptional characters make it a standout. The Switch port is excellent, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, regardless of their preference for point-and-click adventures. Mix drinks, change lives – it's that simple.
The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition ($39.99)
The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition is the definitive version of a storytelling masterpiece. This definitive edition includes the original game and extensive additional content, creating a stunning experience. As a pure visual novel, it shines on the Switch. Prepare for a gothic horror story that will linger long after the credits roll. The music alone is worth the price of admission.
Coffee Talk Episode 1+2 ($12.99 + $14.99)
While sold separately digitally and physically, the North American Switch bundle justifies combining Coffee Talk Episodes 1 and 2 into a single entry. Although not reaching the same heights as VA-11 Hall-A, Coffee Talk offers a relaxing experience with a captivating narrative, charming pixel art, and delightful music. Coffee lovers and those who appreciate engaging characters will find this a perfect fit.
Type-Moon's Visual Novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night, and Mahoyo (Variable)
This entry encompasses three titles: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Witch on the Holy Night (Mahoyo). All are lengthy but rewarding. Fate/stay night serves as an excellent introduction to classic visual novels, while Tsukihime's remake is a must-play for everyone. Witch on the Holy Night follows as a strong third entry in terms of quality.
PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)
Square Enix's PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo unexpectedly impressed me. The narrative, presentation, and even its meta-elements captivated me. This is a top-tier mystery adventure game boasting exceptional characters, art, and mechanics. A must-play for fans of horror adventures.
Gnosia ($24.99)
Often categorized as a sci-fi social deduction RPG, Gnosia blends adventure and visual novel elements. The core gameplay involves identifying imposters and voting them into "cold sleep." Character progression and strategic depth make this a fantastic experience, despite some minor RNG-related frustrations. Its quality prompted me to purchase physical copies for Switch and PS5, in addition to the Steam version. While not for everyone, it's a genre gem.
Steins;Gate Series (Variable)
Spike Chunsoft's Steins;Gate releases on Switch, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, are essential for introducing newcomers to visual novels. While I hope for the original version's release, Steins;Gate Elite is a superb entry point for anime fans. Playing the other Steins;Gate games is recommended only after experiencing the original story in Elite. This entry includes multiple games, but my list, my rules.
AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)
Spike Chunsoft's AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative, a collaboration between Zero Escape creator Kotaro Uchikoshi and No More Heroes character designer Yusuke Kozaki, are exceptional adventure games. The quality of the story, music, and characters far surpasses expectations given their apparent budget. While the absence of Zero Escape on Switch is noted, the AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES games are worth their full price and are true Switch library gems.
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)
A game often recommended with the caveat "just play it, don't look anything up," NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD shifts between disturbing horror and heartwarming moments. This adventure game, with its multiple endings, follows a young aspiring streamer. Its unforgettable experience led me to pre-order the Japanese Switch limited edition.
Ace Attorney Series (Variable)
Capcom has brought the entire Ace Attorney series to Switch. With the Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney Trilogy, Apollo Justice Trilogy, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles, and Ace Attorney Investigations Collection, there's no excuse not to play this beloved adventure game series. For newcomers, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles provides the best entry point. The entire series on a single handheld is a dream come true.
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark, NG, and Death Mark II (Variable)
Aksys Games and Experience Inc.'s Spirit Hunter trilogy blends horror adventure and visual novel elements with a striking art style. While the grotesque imagery might not appeal to all, the excellent localization and compelling stories are unforgettable.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)
While not a pure adventure game, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim incorporates real-time strategy battles. This sci-fi masterpiece from Vanillaware and Atlus is one of the best games I've played in a decade. Its replayability on Switch, enhanced by the OLED screen in handheld mode, is exceptional. This is a must-play experience.
This list exceeds a typical "top 10," reflecting my desire to include all the games I wholeheartedly recommend at full price. The inclusion of entire series reflects their overall quality. If you have suggestions for additions, please comment below. I'm always seeking amazing stories in these genres that excel on the Switch. Thanks for reading!
Note: A separate list of otome games is in progress due to the abundance of excellent titles in that subgenre.
