As we delve into the realm of interactive storytelling, the year 2020 stands out as a remarkable period for visual novel enthusiasts. In this comprehensive overview, we explore the top visual novels of 2020, a year that witnessed the blending of immersive narratives, captivating artwork, and engaging gameplay. These visual novels not only provided escapism during challenging times but also pushed the boundaries of digital storytelling. Join us as we revisit these masterpieces, each offering a unique journey through their intricate plots, memorable characters, and innovative mechanics, solidifying their status in the gaming world.
TOP Visual Novels of 2020
1. YOU and ME and HER: A Love Story
A visual novel that starts as a sweet romance but reveals a darker side. It explores themes of choice, possibilities, and eternal love, offering a unique experience, especially for those familiar with the genre.
– Genres: Romance, Drama
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Choice-Based, Dark Themes
2. Majikoi! Love Me Seriously!
An over-the-top story about a group of friends who are close as family. It includes martial arts battles, duels of the mind, and romance. It’s an engaging visual novel that is hard to put down.
– Genres: Comedy, Romance
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Martial Arts, Friendship
3. Utawarerumono: Prelude to the Fallen
A remake of the 2002 visual novel, this epic adventure story involves wars, politics, and deceit. It builds up to an engaging finale, interspersed with comedic scenes and a wide cast of characters.
– Genres: Adventure, Political
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: War, Strategy
4. Robotics;Notes Elite
Set on a rural island in a slightly futuristic world, follow a high school club’s dream of building a robot while unraveling a conspiracy. This 30+ hour playtime visual novel is part of the well-known Chaos;Head and Steins;Gate universe.
– Genres: Sci-Fi, Adventure
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: High School, Conspiracy
5. Making Lovers
A rare romantic comedy visual novel where the protagonist and love interests are college graduates. It swiftly moves the player onto character routes, focusing on relationships, finding a job, and progressing in life, with the tone varying based on character choices and rich in comedy.
– Genres: Romance, Comedy
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: College Life, Relationship Dynamics
6. Aokana – Four Rhythms Across The Blue
A top visual novel from 2019, Aokana gets an honorable mention for its console release in 2020. It’s lauded as the best sports-themed visual novel, following a unique world where flying is as simple as riding a bike.
– Genres: Sports, Romance
– Release Date: 2020 (Console Release)
– Tags: Flying, Competitive Sports
7. LoveSick Darlings
An Original English Language visual novel set in an Australian high school, LoveSick Darlings focuses on teenager Sydney and his circle of friends, delving into typical teenage life and drama. The game features dynamic scenes that significantly change based on player choices.
– Genres: Romance, School Life
– Release Date: 2020 (Planned)
– Tags: Teen Drama, Choice-Based
8. Kinkoi: Golden Loveriche
Set in a private academy for the wealthy, Kinkoi: Golden Loveriche follows a protagonist who unexpectedly ends up staying in the women’s dormitory and gets involved with a princess. This visual novel combines elements of romance and high-class society.
– Genres: Romance, Drama
– Release Date: 2021 (Planned)
– Tags: High Society, Academy
9. Irotoridori no Sekai
The first part of a trilogy, Irotoridori no Sekai is about a magician who can heal wounds at the cost of his memories, set in a seaside town linked to another world. This visual novel combines elements of magic and memory.
– Genres: Fantasy, Romance
– Release Date: 2023 or later (Planned)
– Tags: Magic, Memory
10. Butterfly Soup
A heartwarming story about gay girls playing baseball and falling in love. Butterfly Soup presents a delightful mix of humor, romance, and coming-of-age themes, resonating deeply with its audience.
– Genres: Romance, Coming-of-Age
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: LGBTQ+, Sports
11. Darling Duality
Darling Duality offers a unique twist with its theme of multiple personalities. Players can choose between sweet or sinister routes, leading to various yandere shenanigans and intriguing storylines.
– Genres: Romance, Psychological
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Yandere, Multiple Personalities
12. Cafe in the Clouds
Two cooks turn dream eaters in this visual novel where troubled, sleepless townsfolk seek their unusual services. A narrative that creatively blends cooking with fantastical elements.
– Genres: Fantasy, Mystery
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Cooking, Dreams
13. Royal Alchemist
A medieval fantasy Otome/BL survival Stats Raiser & RPG, Royal Alchemist immerses players in a story of court intrigue, alchemy, and survival, all set within a beautifully crafted world.
– Genres: Otome, RPG
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Alchemy, Strategy
14. a new life.
A classic love story about letting go, ‘a new life.’ offers an intimate glimpse into the complexities of relationships and the pain of loss. This visual novel is a profound exploration of love and life.
– Genres: Romance, Drama
– Release Date: 2020
– Tags: Emotional, Life Choices
Sources: NookGaming (www.nookgaming.com), itch.io