Romance Visual Novels Worth Your Time That Aren’t KFC Dating Simulator

Okay, we get it. Everyone is excited about the recently released I Love You, Colonel Sanders! A Finger Lickin’ Good Dating Simulator. However, let’s talk about some visual novels that maybe you missed out on this year.

Zanki Zero: Last Beginning
Developer: Spike Chunsoft

Developed by the team who brought you the Danganronpa series, Zanki Zero: Last Beginning has players assume the role of a group of strangers who are washed up on a strange island. With not much of an explanation, they are asked to not only survive but face some pretty harsh mental trials that find them exploring dungeons and fighting disturbing creatures. It’s through character interaction and teamwork that they make it through the trials, but that isn’t so easy. And yes, there is some romance in this story.

Date A Live: Rio Reincarnation
Developer: Idea Factory

Spirits need lovin’ too. Date A Live: Rio Reincarnation features a huge cast of characters who grow over three titles, included in one game. Throughout this adventure, players will become closer to a group of girls as they increase their bonds with them and get closer. The game focuses heavily on character development and romance with a sprinkle of action. Being that spirits in this world have the power to destroy it, it’s up to the player to keep them happy.

Sankaku Renai: Love Triangle Trouble
Developer: ASa Project

Perhaps one of the funniest visual novels of the year, Sankaku Renai: Love Triangle Trouble tells the story of a group of otakus who are just trying to exist in this world. The writing is over the top and reflects each of these zanny characters brilliantly. This is one visual novel that has some memorable characters and story arcs all blended with the friendship and romance that makes it tough to ignore.

Steam Prison
Developer: HuneX

Riddled with scenes of the upperclass looking down the lower citizens, Steam Prison is a great otome novel that shouldn’t be overlooked. Throughout the story, players learn more about the social divide as they open their eyes to new experiences. Some realizations are troubling, but at least there are a group of attractive guys to have your back.

World End Syndrome
Developer: Toybox Inc.

Yes, all we can say is that this murder adventure is a good one. Players assume the role of a transfer student who learns of town’s mysterious past. There are strange murders occurring around town and the students are caught in the middle of it. With each route revealing more of the story, this is one mystery that no one should overlook.

Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles
Developer: Idea Factory

Don’t you just love wintertime? Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles continues the story of the Code: Realize series by taking players to a winter wonderland to spend some more time with their husbandos. Being a little more linear, this game is definitely for fans of the series, but if you haven’t played the other entries, there’s no better time to do so.

Be sure to let us know ones that stood out to you this year in the comments below!

If you need more recommendations, check out our top list for our five favorite visual novels: