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

My top picks for the best visual novels and adventure games on the Nintendo Switch in 2024! Following my exploration of the Switch's best party games, the recent release of Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club inspired this list. It blends pure visual novels with adventure games, showcasing titles from various regions and release years. The order is entirely 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 fantastic, but the lack of a physical release was a drawback. Emio – The Smiling Man rectifies this, offering a stunning new entry. It's a lavish production, a true sequel, and boasts a shockingly good, M-rated ending. A surprising highlight of my 2024 gaming year! Download the demo. Play the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection first if you prefer.

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

A repeat recommendation, but VA-11 Hall-A is a masterpiece. Its compelling story, memorable music, striking aesthetic, and captivating characters make it a must-play. The Switch version is excellent, and I wholeheartedly recommend it regardless of your preference for point-and-click adventures. Mix drinks, change lives!

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

The definitive edition of a storytelling masterpiece. This pure visual novel, including the original game and expansions, is a stunning achievement. Its gothic horror narrative and incredible music will stay with you long after you finish.

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

While sold separately, a North American bundle exists. Both Coffee Talk games offer a relaxing experience with engaging stories and charming pixel art. Perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate listening to interesting characters.

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

This entry cheats a bit by including three titles: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Mahoyo. All are lengthy but rewarding. Fate/stay night is a good starting point for visual novel newcomers, but Tsukihime's remake is highly recommended. Mahoyo follows those two in terms of quality.

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)

A surprising gem from Square Enix. PARANORMASIGHT delivers a compelling narrative, memorable characters, striking art, and engaging mechanics. A fantastic horror adventure.

Gnosia ($24.99)

A sci-fi social deduction RPG, or perhaps a hybrid adventure/visual novel. Identify the Gnosia imposters through information gathering and voting. Despite some RNG elements, it's a fantastic experience.

Steins;Gate Series (Variable)

Spike Chunsoft's Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, is essential for visual novel newcomers, especially anime fans. Steins;Gate Elite is the recommended entry point. This entry also includes multiple games.

AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)

A collaboration between Zero Escape creator Kotaro Uchikoshi and No More Heroes artist Yusuke Kozaki. These two adventure games are exceptional, offering compelling stories, music, and characters. A must-play for Switch owners.

NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)

An adventure game with multiple endings, oscillating between disturbing horror and heartwarming moments. Follow a young streamer's journey. A memorable and unforgettable experience.

Ace Attorney Series (Variable)

The entire Ace Attorney series is now on Switch. The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is the best starting point, but all games are now accessible on one handheld.

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

The Spirit Hunter trilogy blends horror adventure and visual novel elements with a striking art style. While graphically intense, the stories and localizations are excellent.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)

A sci-fi masterpiece combining real-time strategy battles with a compelling narrative. A must-play experience, best enjoyed on the Switch's OLED screen.

This list exceeds ten entries because I couldn't bear to exclude any of these fantastic titles. Let me know your recommendations in the comments! I'm always searching for more amazing stories in these genres. A separate list of otome games is in the works. Thanks for reading!