Hi!! I am trying to get back into otome after like a decade and would love some recommendations. In general i tend to gravitate towards protagonists with a strong/distinct personality, games that have horror elements to their story, and characters with mental health/trauma issues that get explored very in depth. I don't really have a limit on rating or content/darkness level or anything like that. The last vn I really enjoyed was Fata Morgana if that helps. I know that isn't an otome but the vibes in it were absolutely perfect to me so if anything has something that reminds them of that game I would love that! thank you!
Well, I can think of a few otome games, hopefully one of them will appeal to you. The first one it's what I personally think fits the closest and so on, the last it's more on the supernatural side, but I added it in case you are curious (Also, I AM taking the short description from the review to give you an idea):
Virche Evermore: ErroR: Salvation. which I think might be the closest to what you are looking for (I think haha) Personally, I haven't played it yet since one reviewer I like said "Emotionally crushing, despair woven with horror and dread." and it's known to be a bit more tragic/dark otome, so yeah xd
Psychedelica of the Black Butterfly. "You awaken in a mysterious mansion with no memories, hunted by shadowy monsters and drawn to black butterflies. The more you uncover, the deeper the psychological tension becomes. Romance is built through survival and trust, with an eerie, dreamlike quality throughout."
Even if TEMPEST. "A dark fairytale filled with witches, curses, and betrayals. The protagonist gains the power to turn back time after a tragic event, throwing her into a cycle of uncovering grim truths and twisted fates. While romance blossoms, it's constantly under the shadow of doom and unsettling revelations."
9 R.I.P. "They say people in this town often get spirited away… Misa Isshiki doesn't believe in ghost stories, but the stress of her future weighs heavy on her. When an eerie voice offers to "lead her into the darkness," her world shifts into a terrifying blur of urban legends, ghostly realms, and chilling murders. With eight romance options, you'll uncover not just love, but the haunting truths hiding in both the real world and the spirit world. Your choices can sway affection, sanity, and even your very soul."
And considering what you said you might also enjoy this two non-otome VNs.
Raging Loop and
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark.
I hope you might find interesting at least one of the options. C:
