One reason could be that there's a demand for adult-oriented content in the gaming market. Some people are interested in the combination of story and adult elements in visual novels.
It might also be because creating eroge visual novels can be a lucrative business. They often attract a specific audience willing to pay for such content. Also, the development of these games might be relatively easier compared to more complex non-erotic titles.
Another factor could be that the adult theme adds an extra layer of excitement or novelty for some developers and players. It gives them a way to explore themes and scenarios that are not typically found in mainstream games.
It's hard to give an exact number because it's constantly changing and depends on how you define 'eroge'. But there are quite a few out there.
One reason could be that they attract a specific audience with certain preferences. Also, they might offer more adult-oriented content to stand out in the market.
Another one could be 'Katawa Shoujo'. It has a unique setting and explores different themes in an engaging way. The characters' relationships are complex and add to the overall charm of the visual novel.
Could be that they focus more on the story and gameplay than the visuals. Sometimes, not enough attention is given to the art aspect.
It could be due to budget constraints. Sometimes, developers don't have enough funds to hire top-notch artists.
You can start by looking at online gaming communities dedicated to visual novels. These communities often share and discuss free visual novels that are of good quality. For example, Reddit has some sub -reddits where users recommend their favorite free visual novels.
One popular platform is itch.io. It has a variety of free visual novels that are not only engaging but also often created by indie developers. Another option could be Ren'Py's official website. Some developers release their free visual novels using the Ren'Py engine there.
First, you need to have a good story concept. Think about the plot, characters, and the overall theme. Then, you can start learning about the software for creating visual novels. There are some free and paid ones available.
The expense of visual novels might come from the effort put into creating detailed character designs, high-quality voice acting, and the need for advanced programming to ensure a smooth user experience. All these aspects add up to the final price.
They offer immersive stories and allow you to make choices that shape the outcome, making it feel like you're part of the adventure.