One great option is 'The Walking Dead' visual novels. They are set in a post - apocalyptic world filled with zombies. The focus is on survival, making tough decisions, and building relationships within the group for survival, not romance or high school themes.
Definitely 'Danganronpa'. It's a mystery - filled visual novel where a group of students are trapped in a school - like environment (but not a typical high school in terms of themes). They have to participate in a 'killing game' and figure out who the murderer is among them. The story is full of suspense and unexpected plot twists.
For non - romance visual novels, 'Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney' is a classic. You play as a defense attorney and solve various cases in a courtroom setting. It's full of humor and interesting mysteries. 'Bioshock Infinite: Burial at Sea - Episode 1' also has a great non - romance story. It expands on the Bioshock Infinite universe with a noir - like story. Additionally, 'The Stanley Parable' is a unique visual novel that plays with the concept of choice and narrative in a very creative way.
One of the best non - romance visual novels is 'The Walking Dead'. It offers a gripping post - apocalyptic story with complex characters and tough moral choices. The choices you make actually impact the story's progression, making it highly engaging.
'Lucah: Born of a Dream' is an underrated one. It has a really interesting art style and a deep story about self - discovery and facing one's inner demons. Another is 'OneShot'. It has a meta - narrative that's really engaging. It makes you feel like you're part of the story in a unique way.
'Dandelion - Wishes Brought to You' is a wonderful non - adult romance visual novel. It tells the story of a girl who lives with five men who are all able to transform into animals. The interactions between the characters are sweet and the art is really charming. It offers multiple endings depending on the choices you make throughout the game, which adds replayability.
I highly recommend 'Collar × Malice'. It has an engaging plot where the female protagonist is caught up in a mystery while also developing romantic relationships with several male characters. The character interactions are well - written and the art is beautiful. 'Code: Realize - Guardian of Rebirth' is another great one. It's set in a steampunk world and features a unique love story between the main character and a group of interesting male characters.
'Amnesia: Memories' is a highschool romance visual novel that has an interesting premise. The protagonist has lost her memories and has to navigate through different story routes based on different relationships with the male characters in a high school setting.
The visual novel 'Little Busters!' is also very popular. It tells a heartwarming story about friendship among a group of students. There are various routes to explore in the game, each offering a different perspective on the characters and their relationships. It has a beautiful art style and a great soundtrack.
Yes, there are some. You can search on fanfic platforms like FanFiction.net or Archive of Our Own. Look for stories that focus on the action, survival, or character development aspects rather than the harem or lemon themes. For example, some fanfics might explore how the characters adapt to the zombie apocalypse in different ways.