After exploring the best party games on Switch in 2024, the recent release of *Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club* has inspired me to share my top picks for the best visual novels and adventure games available on the Switch right now. This list includes a mix of pure visual novels and adventure games, spanning various regions and release years. I hope you discover a new favorite among these selections. As always, the list is presented in no particular order.
Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club ($49.99) + Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection
Nintendo's decision to remake both *Famicom Detective Club* games in 2021 was a delightful surprise. These adventure games were exceptional, though I missed the physical release at the time. Fast forward to 2024, and Nintendo has released *Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club* both physically and digitally as a new entry in the series. Playing it has been a revelation; it feels like a true continuation of the series, and its lavish production values are unmatched. The ending is particularly noteworthy, justifying its M rating with a shocking twist. I never expected to have a new *Famicom Detective Club* game on my top games list for 2024, but *Emio – The Smiling Man* has earned its place. Try the demo now.
If you prefer to start with the classics, *Famicom Detective Club: The Two-Case Collection* is a must-play. Embrace the old-school design and gameplay, and you'll find these games truly captivating.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action ($14.99)
If you've followed my "best Switch games" lists this year, you've likely seen *VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action* mentioned before. It's one of my all-time favorite games, and I can't resist highlighting it again. This game stands out for its compelling story, captivating music, unique aesthetic, and unforgettable characters. Having played it across multiple platforms, it feels perfectly at home on the Switch. Whether you're a fan of point-and-click adventure games or not, *VA-11 Hall-A* is a must-play. Mix drinks and change lives with this gem.
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 my favorite stories across any medium. It includes the original game and additional content, delivering a masterful narrative experience. As a pure visual novel, it shines on the Switch, where it has found significant success. If you're looking for a story that will linger with you, this gothic horror experience, complete with its incredible music, is the perfect choice.
Coffee Talk Episode 1+2 ($12.99 + $14.99)
While technically two separate games, *Coffee Talk Episode 1+2* are bundled together in North America on the Switch, so I'm treating them as one entry. Both games offer a relaxing experience set in a coffee shop, with a great story and charming pixel art and music. Although they don't reach the heights of *VA-11 Hall-A*, they perfectly satisfy the desire for a cozy, narrative-driven game. If you enjoy coffee and engaging with interesting characters, these games are for you.
Type Moon’s visual novels: Tsukihime, Fate/stay night, and Mahoyo (Variable)
I've included all three of Type Moon's visual novels—*Tsukihime*, *Fate/stay night*, and *Witch on the Holy Night* (Mahoyo)—as essential experiences on the Switch. These games are long but rewarding. If you're new to visual novels, start with *Fate/stay night*. However, I highly recommend *Tsukihime*'s remake on Switch. *Witch on the Holy Night* is another excellent choice, best enjoyed after the other two.
PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo ($19.99)
Square Enix's *PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo* surprised me with its quality and narrative depth. I had no expectations going in, but the game's storytelling, art, and innovative mechanics left me thoroughly impressed. It's one of the best mystery adventure games I've played, featuring amazing characters and a compelling horror experience.
Gnosia ($24.99)
*Gnosia* is often described as a sci-fi social deduction RPG, but I see it more as a hybrid of adventure and visual novel elements. The goal is to identify the Gnosia among your crew using gathered information and voting. Both you and your crew improve over time, making for a fantastic experience despite some RNG challenges. I enjoyed it so much on the Switch that I also bought the physical releases for Switch and PS5, as well as the Steam version. It might not be for everyone, but it's a delightful surprise in the genre.
Steins;Gate Series (Variable)
Spike Chunsoft's *Steins;Gate* series, particularly *Steins;Gate Elite*, is crucial for introducing newcomers to visual novels. While I hope for the original version to be released on Switch, *Steins;Gate Elite* is an excellent entry point for anime fans looking to dive into visual novels. The series is a must-play, especially after experiencing the original story in *Steins;Gate Elite*.
AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and nirvanA Initiative (Variable)
*AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES* and *nirvanA Initiative* from Spike Chunsoft are exceptional adventure games that bring together the talents of Zero Escape creator Kotaro Uchikoshi and No More Heroes character designer Yusuke Kozaki. These games deliver high-quality storytelling, music, and characters, despite their budget constraints. While fans miss the Zero Escape series on Switch, these two games are gems in the Switch library and worth experiencing at full price.
NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD ($19.99)
*NEEDY STREAMER OVERLOAD* is an adventure game that friends often recommend with the caveat to "just play it without looking up anything." It offers multiple endings that can shift between disturbing horror and heartwarming moments, centered around a young girl's journey to become the best streamer. I enjoyed it so much on PC that I pre-ordered the limited edition for Switch from Japan. It's an unforgettable experience.
Ace Attorney Series (Variable)
Capcom has brought the entire *Ace Attorney* series to the Switch, including the *Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney Trilogy*, *Apollo Justice Trilogy*, *The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles*, and the *Ace Attorney Investigations Collection*. This beloved adventure game series has a dedicated fanbase, and now, with all entries available on one handheld, there's no excuse not to dive in. For newcomers, I recommend starting with *The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles*, though the original trilogy remains a classic despite feeling somewhat dated.
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark, NG, and Death Mark II (Variable)
The *Spirit Hunter* trilogy from Aksys Games and Experience Inc blends horror adventure and visual novel elements with a striking art style. While the grotesque designs may not appeal to everyone, the series offers unforgettable images, excellent localizations, and compelling stories. I hope to see a new entry in the coming years.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($59.99)
*13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim* isn't a pure adventure game, as it includes real-time strategy battles. However, it's a masterpiece that deserves a spot on this list. I first played it on PS4 and enjoyed replaying it on the Switch, especially on the OLED screen in handheld mode. Regardless of the platform, *13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim* is an experience you shouldn't miss.
If you've made it this far, you've noticed that this list exceeds a top 10, and all games are recommended at full price. I didn't want to exclude any favorites to meet an arbitrary number, which is why I included some full series. This is my list of the best visual novels and adventure games on Switch to play in 2024. If you have a game you think I should have included, please let me know in the comments below. I'm always looking for more amazing stories in these genres, which feel perfect on the Switch. As always, thanks for reading!
Note: I'm working on a separate list of otome games since there are too many good ones in that subgenre.
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