So Many Romances, So Little Time
With their interwoven narratives, colorful cast of characters and plethora of choices, the visual novel genre has managed to carve itself a little niche into the gaming scene, even inspiring titles that have managed to dominate the mainstream. Of course, said style isn’t to everybody’s tastes, and given the sheer amount of copycats, it’s not hard to see why newcomers would be deterred. However, that’s not to say there aren’t a few unique examples that even the most die-hard haters can enjoy.
While some classic Japanese visual novels have enough ingenuity to cross cultural barriers, more recent western releases have managed to turn tropes around to make things more accessible. As such, we feel these three particular games are the perfect starting point for those not yet on the bandwagon.
#3: “Katawa Shoujo” (2012)
In the wrong hands this project could have come across as crude and disgusting, since the premise involves the protagonist getting involved with young ladies who have some form of disability. Yet, despite the odds, they managed to create a heartfelt, compassionate and rather uplifting tale that celebrates the persistence of the human spirit, as well as how beauty isn’t skin deep. You will believe that an artist who speaks backwards and has no arms can make you see stars.
#2: “Fate/stay night” (2004)
It’s had countless anime adaptations over the years but as purists will tell you, nothing can compare to the original marathon experience. Chronicling the Fifth Holy Grail War, players will be given the option to pursue three routes, each introducing us to a slew of Servants and Masters as they battle to have their one wish fulfilled. Do you follow Saber and fight against Fate? Join forces with Rin and gain the power of Unlimited Blade Works? Perhaps try and save Sakura and experience the tear-jerking Heaven’s Feel? No matter what you choose, you can expect the journey to be a brutal one.
#1: “Doki Doki Literature Club” (2017)
Blazing onto the scene and taking gamers everywhere for a ride, what everyone assumed would be just another delightful high school romance turned out to be something far more complex and sinister. With a twist that nobody saw coming, the likes of Monika and the rest of the Literature Club managed to tear apart yet also celebrate the visual novel genre in every conceivable way, so much so that they managed to put other so-called “authentic” entries to shame. To say they raised the bar would be an understatement.
Be sure to check out the video below to see our picks for the Top 10 Weirdest Dating Simulator Games.
04:53
