The Best Switch Visual Novels and Adventure Games in 2024 – From Fata Morgana and VA-11 Hall-A to Famicom Detective Club and Gnosia

This article explores the best 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 list is not ranked.

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99) + Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection

Nintendo's 2024 release of Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club, a new entry in the beloved series, is a stunning achievement. This lavishly produced title delivers a gripping narrative and a shockingly good conclusion, justifying its mature rating. For those wanting to experience the series' origins, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection offers a classic adventure game experience. A demo is available.

VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action ($14.99)

A consistently lauded title, VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action shines through its compelling story, memorable characters, captivating music, and striking aesthetic. Its Switch port is excellent, making it accessible to a wider audience. This game transcends genre expectations, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition ($39.99)

This definitive edition of The House in Fata Morgana presents a captivating gothic horror narrative. As a pure visual novel, it excels in storytelling, featuring exceptional music and a lasting impact on the player. Its Switch version is widely considered the best iteration.

Coffee Talk Episode 1+2 ($12.99 + $14.99)

While sold separately, Coffee Talk Episode 1 and 2 are bundled in North America, justifying their inclusion as a single entry. These games offer a relaxing experience with a charming story, appealing pixel art, and pleasant music. They provide a perfect escape for coffee lovers.

Type-Moon's Visual Novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night, and Mahoyo (Variable)

This entry encompasses three significant Type-Moon visual novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Mahoyo. Each offers a lengthy but rewarding experience. Fate/stay night serves as a great entry point for visual novel newcomers, while Tsukihime's remake is highly recommended. Mahoyo follows as a strong subsequent choice.

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo is a surprising gem from Square Enix. This mystery adventure game boasts a captivating narrative, memorable characters, impressive art, and engaging mechanics. Its unexpected twists and compelling story make it a standout title.

Gnosia ($24.99)

Described as a sci-fi social deduction RPG, Gnosia blends adventure and visual novel elements. Players identify imposters through deduction and voting. Despite some RNG elements, the game offers a highly engaging and rewarding experience.

Steins;Gate Series (Variable)

Spike Chunsoft's Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, is crucial for introducing newcomers to visual novels. While the original version is desired, Elite provides an accessible entry point for anime fans. The series is best experienced chronologically.

AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)

This pair of adventure games from Spike Chunsoft, featuring the talents of Kotaro Uchikoshi and Yusuke Kozaki, are exceptional. The high-quality storytelling, music, and characters make these titles well worth the price.

NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)

NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD is an adventure game with multiple endings, oscillating between unsettling horror and heartwarming moments. It follows a young streamer's journey, offering a memorable and unpredictable experience.

Ace Attorney Series (Variable)

Capcom's complete Ace Attorney series is now available on Switch. This acclaimed adventure game series offers a compelling blend of legal drama and mystery. The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is suggested as the ideal starting point for newcomers.

Spirit Hunter: Death Mark, NG, and Death Mark II (Variable)

The Spirit Hunter trilogy combines horror adventure and visual novel elements with a distinctive art style. While the grotesque imagery may not appeal to all, the compelling narratives and excellent localization make it a noteworthy series.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim blends real-time strategy battles with a compelling narrative. This sci-fi masterpiece from Vanillaware and Atlus is a must-play title, highly enjoyable on the Switch's OLED screen.

This list is not exhaustive, and other excellent titles exist. The author encourages readers to share their recommendations.