10 Best LGBTQ+ Visual Novel Games You Must Play

Visual novels are a powerful medium for storytelling, and over the years, they’ve become a space for diverse and inclusive narratives. LGBTQ+ visual novels offer rich experiences that go beyond simple romance, exploring identity, relationships, and self-discovery. Whether you’re looking for heartwarming stories, complex characters, or lighthearted fun, here are some of the best LGBTQ+ visual novel games for you to enjoy.

1. Our Life: Beginnings & Always

• Genre: Slice of Life, Romance
• Studio: GB Patch Games
• Release Date: November 2020
  This customizable visual novel allows players to grow alongside their neighbor, Cove, as they navigate life from childhood to adulthood. Our Life offers inclusive options for gender and sexual orientation, making it a deeply personal experience for every player. With a relaxed pace and a strong focus on relationships, it’s a charming, heartwarming story about growing up and finding yourself.
  Explore the game on steam

2. Butterfly Soup

• Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, Sports
• Studio: Brianna Lei
• Release Date: September 2017
  A hilarious coming-of-age story about queer Asian-American girls who bond over baseball. Butterfly Soup tackles themes of friendship, romance, and the struggles of navigating identity. The game’s humor and charm make it a standout in the visual novel genre, with a diverse cast and heartfelt moments of self-discovery.
  Explore the game on itch

3. A Summer’s End – Hong Kong 1986

• Genre: Yuri, Romance, Historical
• Studio: Oracle and Bone
• Release Date: April 2020
  Set in 1980s Hong Kong, this visual novel follows the romance between two women from different backgrounds. The lush visuals and nostalgic soundtrack immerse players in the setting, while the tender relationship between the two protagonists forms the emotional core of the game. It’s a beautiful exploration of love and identity in a time of societal change.
  Explore the game on steam / official website

4. Arcade Spirits

• Genre: Comedy, Romance
• Studio: Fiction Factory Games
• Release Date: February 2019
  In an alternate reality where the 1983 video game crash never happened, you work in an arcade and navigate relationships with various characters. Arcade Spirits offers customizable options for gender and romantic preferences, including same-sex relationships. The game is lighthearted and packed with nerd culture references, making it a fun, inclusive experience.
  Explore the game on steam

5. Sentimental Trickster

• Genre: Drama, Romance (Boys’ Love)
• Studio: Lovenuts
• Release Date: March 2021
  Sentimental Trickster tells the story of Haru, a young man moving to a new city to escape his troubled past. With multiple male love interests, the game delves into emotional and psychological aspects of relationships, offering players a deep and engaging Boys’ Love experience.
  Explore the game on steam / Explore the game on itch

6. Starry Flowers

• Genre: Fantasy, Boys’ Love
• Studio: NomnomNami
• Release Date: October 2020
  A fantasy-themed visual novel that follows the love story of two witch boys. Starry Flowers offers a sweet, magical narrative with beautifully crafted art and a warm, light-hearted tone. It’s perfect for fans looking for a romantic Boys’ Love story in a whimsical, fantasy setting.
  Explore the game on itch  / Explore the game on Google play

7. Nekojishi

• Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Adventure
• Studio: Studio Klondike
• Release Date: November 2017
  Nejokishi follows a young man who, after an encounter with anthropomorphic deities and spirits, must make decisions about his future, love life, and spiritual path. This adventure romance focuses on choices that affect both the protagonist’s life and his romantic relationships, including same-sex options.
  Explore the game on steam / Explore the game on itch

8. A Year of Springs

• Genre: Slice of Life, Romance
• Studio: npckc
• Release Date: September 2021
  This compilation of three visual novels tells the stories of three queer women as they navigate love and friendship. One of the standout stories includes a transgender woman’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Each game provides a thoughtful look at identity, relationships, and the challenges of being true to oneself.
  Explore the game on steam  / Explore the game on itch

9. La Vie en Rose

• Genre: Slice of Life, Romance (Boys’ Love)
• Studio: Abyss Team
• Release Date: August 2020
  This visual novel tells the emotional story of two young men exploring the complexities of love, healing, and growth. The game features mature themes and a realistic portrayal of relationships, making it a standout in the Boys’ Love genre.
  Explore the game on itch

10. Just Kiss Him Already!

• Genre: Comedy, Boys’ Love
• Studio: Ekkoberry
• Release Date: 2021
  This short, funny visual novel is all about helping two cute boys confess their love for each other. It’s a playful, light-hearted game with multiple endings, ideal for fans looking for a sweet Boys’ Love story with a focus on humor.
  Explore the game on itch

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In conclusion, the world of LGBTQ+ Visual Novel Games offers a rich variety of stories that celebrate love, identity, and self-discovery. These games not only provide meaningful representation but also offer diverse gameplay experiences, from lighthearted romantic comedies to deeply emotional journeys. Whether you’re a fan of Boys’ Love, yuri, or inclusive storytelling, these visual novels give players the opportunity to engage with characters and narratives that reflect the beauty of LGBTQ+ experiences. Explore these games and immerse yourself in the wide range of relationships and adventures they offer!