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 2024 roundup showcases the best visual novels and adventure games available on the Nintendo Switch. The selection spans various regions and release years, offering a diverse range of experiences for players. Note that this list isn't ranked, and includes multiple games within some entries.

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

Nintendo's 2024 release, Emio – The Smiling Man, is a stunning addition to the Famicom Detective Club series. This lavishly produced title boasts a gripping narrative and a shockingly good conclusion that fully justifies its mature rating. For those new to the series, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection provides a fantastic entry point, though it features a more classic adventure game style.

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

A consistent favorite, VA-11 Hall-A shines with its compelling story, memorable characters, captivating music, and unique aesthetic. Its Switch port is excellent, making it a highly recommended title for all players, regardless of their preference for point-and-click adventures.

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

Considered a storytelling masterpiece, The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition offers the definitive experience of this gothic horror visual novel. This enhanced edition includes the original game and additional content, making it a must-have for fans of the genre.

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

While sold separately, Coffee Talk Episode 1 and 2 are bundled in North America and offer a relaxing experience with a charming story and pixel art. The games provide a unique blend of coffee shop ambiance and engaging character interactions.

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

This entry encompasses three essential Type-Moon visual novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Mahoyo. Each offers a lengthy but rewarding experience. Fate/stay night serves as an excellent introduction to the genre, while Tsukihime's remake is highly recommended.

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)

PARANORMASIGHT is a surprising gem from Square Enix, delivering a captivating mystery adventure with memorable characters, stunning art, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It's a standout horror adventure title.

Gnosia ($24.99)

Blending sci-fi, social deduction, and visual novel elements, Gnosia tasks players with identifying imposters. Despite some reliance on randomness, it delivers a compelling and memorable experience.

Steins;Gate Series (Variable)

Spike Chunsoft's Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, is a fantastic entry point for anime fans looking to explore visual novels. While an original version release is hoped for, Elite offers a compelling experience.

AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)

These two adventure games from Spike Chunsoft, a collaboration between renowned creators, offer a high-quality narrative, music, and characters. They stand as compelling alternatives to the absent Zero Escape series on Switch.

NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)

This adventure game, with its unpredictable shifts between disturbing and heartwarming moments, follows the life of an aspiring streamer. Its unforgettable narrative makes it a highly recommended title.

Ace Attorney Series (Variable)

Capcom has brought the entire Ace Attorney series to Switch, making this beloved adventure game series accessible to all. The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles serves as an excellent starting point for newcomers.

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

This horror adventure/visual novel trilogy features a striking art style and memorable stories. While its grotesque elements may not appeal to all, its strong localization and compelling narratives make it a worthwhile experience for many.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)

Concluding the list is 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, a sci-fi masterpiece blending real-time strategy and narrative elements. Its compelling story and captivating gameplay make it a must-play title.

This comprehensive list aims to provide a wide selection of visual novels and adventure games for Switch players. The author notes a separate otome game list is in the works.