Can you recommend some free psychological horror visual novels?

Sure. 'Mad Father' is a great psychological horror visual novel. It has a dark and disturbing story about a girl named Aya who discovers the secrets of her father's work. The game has a lot of gore and psychological trauma elements that add to the horror.

For beginners, 'Ib' is a good start. It has a relatively simple yet engaging story with some spooky elements that are not overly extreme. The art style is also not too grotesque which can be a plus for those new to the genre. Another one could be 'Doki Doki Literature Club', but be aware that it has some disturbing content later on. However, the initial part is quite accessible and it shows how a normal - seeming story can turn into psychological horror.

A good one often has a strong and disturbing atmosphere. For example, in 'The Witch's House', the gloomy and foreboding setting immediately sets the mood. They also usually have complex characters with hidden motives and secrets. In 'Ib', the characters' actions and reactions are not always straightforward, which adds to the psychological intrigue.

Another is 'The House in Fata Morgana'. It tells a complex and often harrowing story through different time periods. The psychological horror comes from the exploration of the characters' traumas, their sins, and the overall atmosphere of mystery and despair that pervades the story.

The 'Silent Hill' visual novels can be considered among the best in horror psychological genre. They often explore deep psychological traumas and fears, with a very eerie atmosphere. Then there's 'Ib'. It's a short but impactful visual novel where you explore a strange art gallery filled with psychological horror elements like distorted paintings and unpredictable characters. 'Yume Nikki' is also great, as it delves into the psychological state of the main character through a series of dream - like and often nightmarish scenarios.

Well, 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson is a must - mention. It plays on the psychological fears of the characters and the readers alike. It creates an atmosphere of unease that is hard to shake off. Also, 'We Have Always Lived in the Castle' by the same author is quite good. It delves into the minds of the strange characters and their secrets. Then there's 'House of Leaves' by Mark Z. Danielewski, which is a very complex and mind - bending psychological horror novel.

One good free horror visual novel is 'The Crooked Man'. It has a really creepy atmosphere with disturbing characters and a plot full of mystery. The art style adds to the overall horror feel. Another is 'Misao'. It features a school setting filled with dark secrets and supernatural elements that are sure to send shivers down your spine.

Sure. 'Yume Nikki' is a very well - known free horror visual novel. It has a surreal and often disturbing dream - like world. The lack of clear - cut story at first can be disorienting, but that's part of its charm. It's filled with strange creatures and environments that create a sense of unease.

One of the best is 'Doki Doki Literature Club'. It starts off seeming like a normal dating sim but takes a very dark and psychological turn. The characters' deteriorating mental states and the disturbing events that unfold make it a prime example in this genre.

One great psychological thriller visual novel is 'Danganronpa'. It has a captivating plot filled with mystery and psychological twists. The characters are unique and the death game concept keeps you on the edge of your seat.