What are the characteristics of good obscure visual novels?

Good obscure fantasy novels often have unique world - building. For example, they might create a world with its own set of rules for magic, like in 'The Golem and the Jinni' where the magic of the golem and the jinni are based on different cultural and mythological backgrounds. Another characteristic is complex characters. In 'The Name of the Wind', Kvothe is a multi - faceted character with a rich backstory. They also tend to have original storylines that deviate from common fantasy tropes, such as 'Uprooted' which has a different take on the relationship between the hero and the source of magic.

Often, they have unique art styles. For example, some may use a very minimalist or highly detailed and complex art style that sets them apart from mainstream visual novels.

There's also 'Muv - Luv Alternative'. It has a complex and engaging plot that combines mecha battles with deep character relationships. The world - building is extensive, and while it might not be as mainstream as some other visual novels, it has a dedicated fan base. It starts off a bit slow but as the story progresses, it really draws you in with its unique blend of elements.

Classic obscure novels often have complex themes. They might deal with deep psychological states, like in 'The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter' by Carson McCullers, which explores isolation and unrequited love. Their writing styles can be very different from mainstream novels, sometimes being more experimental, such as James Joyce's 'Finnegans Wake' with its stream - of - consciousness and made - up words. And they may not have had as much marketing or commercial push when first published, so they remained relatively unknown.

Great obscure novels often have complex themes. They might explore deep psychological states or philosophical ideas that are not immediately obvious. For example, in 'The Recognitions', the exploration of authenticity in art and self is very intricate. Another characteristic is unique narrative styles. 'At Swim - Two - Birds' has a very unconventional way of telling the story, which can be both confusing and fascinating at the same time. Also, they may not have received wide commercial acclaim but are highly regarded by a niche group of readers who appreciate their depth and originality.

Obscure dystopian novels often have a unique take on a future gone wrong. They might focus on niche aspects of society, like in 'The Handmaid's Tale' where it's all about gender roles in a extreme way. They also tend to be less well - known, so they might not have the mass - market appeal but can be very thought - provoking.

Many of them had unique world - building. Since they were not as mainstream, they could be more experimental. For example, they might have strange magic systems or unusual races.

Another is 'Umineko no Naku Koro ni'. It's a complex and often overlooked visual novel with a deep mystery. The characters are well - developed, and the story involves a lot of mind - bending plot twists. It's not as mainstream as some other visual novels but is definitely worth checking out for fans of the genre.

One example is 'The Master and Margarita' by Mikhail Bulgakov. It combines elements of satire, fantasy, and the exploration of good and evil. Another is 'The House of the Seven Gables' by Nathaniel Hawthorne, which delves into themes of family curse and the past haunting the present.

One great obscure mystery novel is 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco. It's set in a medieval monastery and is full of complex puzzles and philosophical musings. Another is 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. It features a hard - boiled detective Marlowe and has a convoluted plot filled with mystery and danger. And 'Gaudy Night' by Dorothy L. Sayers is also an excellent choice. It combines an academic setting with a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.