If you're a fan of immersive storytelling and compelling narratives, the Nintendo Switch offers a treasure trove of visual novels and adventure games that are not to be missed. Here, I've curated a list of some of the best visual novels and adventure games available on the Switch in 2024, spanning various genres and regions. These games are presented in no particular order, and I hope you discover a new favorite among them.
Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99) + Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection
Nintendo's decision to remake the Famicom Detective Club games in 2021 was a delightful surprise, and their quality shone through. My only initial gripe was the absence of a physical release, but fast forward to 2024, and we have the stunning new entry, Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club, available both physically and digitally. This latest installment feels like a true continuation of the series, and its production values are some of the highest I've seen in this genre. The ending is particularly noteworthy, fully justifying its M rating. I never expected to have a new Famicom Detective Club game on my top games list this year, but Nintendo has exceeded expectations. Be sure to download the demo.
For those who prefer to start with the classics, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection offers a nostalgic yet rewarding experience, perfect for fans of old-school adventure games.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action ($14.99)
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action has appeared on my "best Switch games" lists multiple times this year, and for good reason—it's one of my all-time favorites. The game excels in storytelling, music, aesthetic, and character development. It's at home on the Switch, and I recommend it to everyone, regardless of your interest in point-and-click adventure games. Mixing drinks and changing lives has never been so engaging.
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 one of the most powerful stories in any medium. As a pure visual novel, it's a masterpiece of gothic horror that will linger in your mind long after you've finished. The Switch version is where it shines brightest, enhanced by its incredible music.
Coffee Talk Episode 1+2 ($12.99 + $14.99)
Although sold separately, I'm including both Coffee Talk games as a single entry due to their bundle availability in North America. Both games offer a soothing experience set in a coffee shop, complete with a compelling narrative, charming pixel art, and relaxing music. They may not reach the heights of VA-11 Hall-A, but they're perfect for coffee lovers and those who enjoy listening to interesting stories.
Type Moon’s visual novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night, and Mahoyo (Variable)
I'm bending the rules again by including three essential visual novels from Type Moon. All are lengthy but rewarding experiences. Start with Fate/stay night if you're new to the genre, but don't miss out on the remade Tsukihime and Witch on the Holy Night (Mahoyo) for their exceptional quality.
PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)
Square Enix's PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo is a surprise gem, much like Nintendo's Emio. The narrative, art, and mechanics are top-notch, making it one of the best new horror adventure games available. Its unexpected brilliance and wall-breaking elements make it a must-play.
Gnosia ($24.99)
Gnosia is a unique blend of sci-fi social deduction RPG and visual novel. Your goal is to identify the Gnosia among your crew, using gathered information to make crucial votes. Despite some RNG challenges, Gnosia offers a fantastic experience that I enjoyed so much, I purchased physical copies for both Switch and PS5, in addition to the Steam version.
Steins;Gate Series (Variable)
Spike Chunsoft's Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, is essential for newcomers to visual novels. While I hope for the original version to come to Switch, Steins;Gate Elite remains an excellent entry point, especially for anime fans. The entire series is a must-play after experiencing the original story.
AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)
AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative are brilliant adventure games from Spike Chunsoft, bringing together Zero Escape's Kotaro Uchikoshi and No More Heroes' Yusuke Kozaki. Despite the absence of Zero Escape on Switch, these games are gems in the Switch library, offering top-tier storytelling, music, and characters.
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD is an unforgettable adventure game that can shift between horror and heartwarming moments. It follows the life of a young streamer striving for success. My experience with it on PC was so compelling that I pre-ordered the limited edition for Switch, and it's a game you won't soon forget.
Ace Attorney Series (Variable)
Capcom has brought the entire Ace Attorney series to Switch, including the Phoenix Wright Trilogy, Apollo Justice Trilogy, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles, and the Ace Attorney Investigations Collection. This beloved series is perfect for newcomers, and I recommend starting with The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles for its modern feel, though the entire series is now available on one handheld.
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark, NG, and Death Mark II (Variable)
The Spirit Hunter trilogy from Aksys Games and Experience Inc. blends horror adventure with visual novel elements and striking art. While its grotesque designs may not appeal to everyone, the series' stories and localizations are unforgettable. I eagerly await a new entry in the coming years.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is not a pure adventure game, featuring real-time strategy battles, but it's an exceptional experience that deserves a spot on this list. Vanillaware and Atlus have crafted a sci-fi masterpiece that I enjoyed replaying on the Switch, especially in handheld mode with the OLED screen. It's a must-play regardless of platform.
This list isn't just a top 10; it's a collection of games I believe are worth playing at full price. I chose not to limit it to an arbitrary number, which is why some series are included instead of individual games. These are my recommendations for the best visual novels and adventure games on Switch in 2024. If you have any suggestions or games you think I missed, please share them in the comments below. I'm always eager to explore more stories in these captivating genres on the Switch. Thank you for reading!
Note: I'm working on a separate list of otome games since there are too many excellent titles in that subgenre.
