(Good) Visual Novels for The DS

[equalsign]

I'm also a big fan of puzzles, but a strong story gives the puzzle a sense of urgency and a reason to be solved beyond the obvious.

I don't think Trace Memory has a very strong story. I also don't think most of its puzzles are any good. Sliding tile puzzles can rot in Hell. Admittedly, I played the game 7 years ago, so my memory (hah) might not be all that good.

The Professor Layton stories have a good reputation, but I haven't played them myself.

The Phoenix Wright series is really good. That first one kept me up through the night, back when I was a kid and could do stuff like that . I love that the prices have gone down. Might have been the Wiiware and iOS releases. Those games used to cost a ton.

[BlackDS]

I remember trace memory being very disappointing. Finished the game in two days and returned it (coming from the guy who NEVER trades in games). I don't find this genre to be very replayable (you already know the plot), and most of the puzzles were not very memorable. I actually think this game kinda ruined the genre for me.

[Nemoide]

I played Trace Memory once and it *is* short but I also enjoyed it. I remember it being closer to a point & click adventure than a visual novel though.

Also, I'm pretty sure if you play through the game a second time, you collect different files that expand on the story. I might be remembering wrong though.

[Reverend]

I remember trace memory being very disappointing. Finished the game in two days and returned it (coming from the guy who NEVER trades in games). I don't find this genre to be very replayable (you already know the plot), and most of the puzzles were not very memorable. I actually think this game kinda ruined the genre for me.

I'm treating Visual Novels like books. The first time you read/play it, everything is new and interesting (if it's a good book) and any additional playthrough/reread is purely to relive a story you liked. I really enjoy the mystery genre and seldom rewatch/reread/replay mysteries unless they're especially engaging or a very long time has passed between last visiting it.

[pepharytheworm]

Has anyone played AGAIN? It's a visual novel on the DS I am interested in. I probably need to give the Jake Hunter games a try also.

[Godot102]

I definitely reccomend the ace attorney series. The third game in the series has one of the best storylines in any video game with some insane plot twists. If you can find the DS versions, check them out!

[equalsign]

Also, I'm pretty sure if you play through the game a second time, you collect different files that expand on the story. I might be remembering wrong though.

I did that. I don't think it really added too much, but whatever .

EDIT: It should be noted that I imported this from Europe before the US version came out. Paid a bit of a premium. Probably around 50 USD. Someone purchasing it nowadays for 5 USD might be less critical of the experience.

[Reverend]

Well, I just finished Ghost Trick and I must say the story was fantastic!

[Gunstar Green]

The worst thing about 999 is after playing 999 none of the other visual novels can stack up to it .

The sequel may finally manage to get me to break down and buy a 3DS. Time will tell.

That and the Ace Attorney series are probably the best and most popular. Ghost Trick is really good and underrated even if it's a bit short.

[WallCrusher]

Well, I just finished Ghost Trick and I must say the story was fantastic!

Indeed it is. One of the best video game endings I have ever seen.