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, expanding upon a previous list focusing on party games. The selection includes both pure visual novels and adventure games with visual novel elements, representing diverse regions and release years. The games are presented without a specific ranking.

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

The 2024 release of Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club, a new entry in the acclaimed series, is a standout achievement. This lavishly produced title delivers a gripping narrative and a shockingly satisfying conclusion, fully justifying its mature rating. For those wanting to experience the series' origins, the Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection offers a classic adventure experience.

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

A consistently praised title, VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action shines through its compelling story, memorable soundtrack, distinctive aesthetic, and captivating characters. Its Switch port is highly recommended, regardless of prior experience with point-and-click adventure games.

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

This definitive edition of The House in Fata Morgana presents a masterful storytelling experience within a pure visual novel format. The inclusion of additional content enhances this gothic horror masterpiece, leaving a lasting impact on the player.

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

While sold separately, both Coffee Talk episodes are included as a single entry due to the availability of a North American bundle. These relaxing games offer charming pixel art, a pleasant soundtrack, and engaging narratives centered around a coffee shop setting.

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

This entry encompasses Tsukihime, Fate/stay night Remastered, and Mahoyo (Witch on the Holy Night), all significant visual novels on the Switch. While lengthy, they offer compelling narratives and are highly recommended, with Fate/stay night suggested as an excellent starting point for newcomers to the genre.

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo stands out as a surprising gem, delivering a captivating mystery adventure with memorable characters, striking visuals, and unique gameplay mechanics.

Gnosia ($24.99)

A blend of sci-fi social deduction, adventure, and visual novel elements, Gnosia challenges players to identify imposters within a crew. Its engaging gameplay loop and compelling narrative make it a worthwhile experience.

Steins;Gate Series (Variable)

The Steins;Gate series, particularly Steins;Gate Elite, serves as an excellent introduction to visual novels, especially for anime fans. The games are highly recommended, though playing Steins;Gate Elite first is advised.

AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)

The AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES duology, a collaboration between renowned creators, offers a high-quality adventure experience with a compelling story, memorable music, and well-developed characters.

NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)

This adventure game features multiple endings and shifts between unsettling horror and heartwarming moments, revolving around the life of an aspiring streamer.

Ace Attorney Series (Variable)

The complete Ace Attorney series is now available on Switch, offering a comprehensive collection of courtroom adventure games. The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is recommended as a strong starting point.

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

This trilogy blends horror adventure and visual novel elements with a striking art style. While potentially disturbing for some, the series offers compelling narratives and excellent localization.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)

Combining real-time strategy battles with a compelling narrative, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a sci-fi masterpiece. Its Switch port is highly recommended for its handheld playability.

This list aims to be comprehensive rather than limited to a specific number of titles, reflecting the author's strong recommendations for each game. Readers are encouraged to share their suggestions in the comments.