One key feature is the use of non - linear storytelling. Visual novels like '999: Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors' use this effectively. The story jumps between different time periods and perspectives, and the player has to piece together the sequence of events. Additionally, the inclusion of a large amount of lore and world - building details can increase complexity. Take 'The House in Fata Morgana' for example. It has a rich history and backstory for the mansion and its inhabitants that the player needs to understand to fully grasp the story. Complex dialogue that is full of subtext and references also adds to the complexity of a visual novel.
A complex plot structure can make a visual novel complex. For example, if it has multiple branching storylines like in 'Danganronpa'. In this game, the choices you make can lead to different investigations, trials, and outcomes for the characters. Another feature is deep character development. When characters have complex personalities, motives, and backstories that are gradually revealed, such as in 'Clannad'. There are also visual novels that incorporate complex themes like philosophy, ethics, and politics, which require the player to think deeply. For instance, 'Muv - Luv Alternative' which has themes related to war, survival, and human nature.
Symbolism and metaphor can make a visual novel very complex. In 'Yume Nikki', there are many abstract and symbolic elements. The different dream worlds and the items found in them can be interpreted in multiple ways, and understanding these is crucial to getting the full meaning of the game. Also, when a visual novel has a high level of interactivity where the player's choices have far - reaching and unexpected consequences, like in 'Katawa Shoujo', it becomes more complex. And finally, if a visual novel blends different genres such as mystery, horror, and romance in a seamless way, it adds another layer of complexity.
One of the most complex visual novels could be 'Steins; Gate'. It involves intricate time - travel concepts. The plot weaves together multiple timelines, and the characters' actions in one timeline can have far - reaching consequences in others. There are numerous plot twists and turns that keep the player on their toes, constantly re - evaluating what they think they know. The game also delves deep into scientific theories related to time travel, making it not only complex in terms of plot but also intellectually stimulating.
One of the visual novels with complex routes is 'Fate/stay night'. It has multiple storylines and character routes that branch out in various ways, depending on the player's choices. For example, the Saber route is quite different from the Rin route, with different plot developments, character relationships, and endings.
In my opinion, 'It' has complex characters. The Losers' Club members all have different personalities and traumas that they bring to their fight against Pennywise. Each character evolves over time, from their childhood experiences to their adult lives when they have to face the same evil again. Their relationships with each other are also multi - faceted and add to the complexity.
For me, one of the main features of 'the best visual novel' is its interactivity. It should give players choices that actually matter and can lead to different endings. This makes the reading experience more immersive. Additionally, the music and sound effects play an important role. They can set the mood, whether it's a tense moment or a romantic scene. If the visual novel has a strong theme that it conveys well, like a moral lesson or a commentary on society, that also adds to its greatness.
First, it's important to pay close attention to the choices presented. Each choice can potentially lead to a different route. For example, in a game like 'Danganronpa', the choices you make during class trials can have a big impact on the story's direction. Second, keep a mental or written record of the choices you've made. This can help you understand where you might have gone wrong if you end up on an unwanted route.
In my opinion, it's often the protagonist. For example, in many classic novels, the main character has to face multiple conflicts, both internal and external. They might have a moral dilemma, like in 'The Great Gatsby'. Gatsby is complex as he is chasing an idealized version of love while being involved in a world of wealth and false appearances. His actions are driven by his past and his unrequited love, which makes him a multi - faceted character.
I think 'The Dark Tower' series by Stephen King has an extremely complex plot among his mystery - related works. It weaves together multiple storylines, different worlds, and a large cast of characters. There are elements of mystery as Roland, the gunslinger, is on a quest to reach the Dark Tower, and along the way, he encounters various mysteries that need to be solved, from strange creatures to prophecies that are not easily understood.
Well, '11/22/63' could also be considered in this regard. While it's not strictly a pure crime novel, it has elements of crime as it deals with the idea of changing history. The protagonist goes back in time to try to prevent the assassination of President Kennedy. But in doing so, he faces various consequences and moral dilemmas, and there are many plot threads that are intricately woven together.
I'd say Attack on Titan has some seriously complex storylines. There's a lot going on with politics, human nature, and the mystery of the Titans.
I think it's Hamlet. His indecision, introspection, and moral struggles make his personality very complex.