/jp/ - Otaku Culture

Hey OP.

You seem like a decent guy who knows shit when he sees it, so here's my suggestions.

999 - This is a DS adventure game, essentially a visual novel. It is fantastic. It has a sequel but I haven't played it. The writer has an excellent track record and makes really satisfying endings. Don't get spoiled.

Dangan Ronpa - This one actually isn't done yet, however the translation is completely finished so it's almost guaranteed to complete. It's a murder mystery game and requires good reflexes. Excellent writing quality, art is gorgeous. Round table discussions which make up the bulk of gameplay are fully voiced.

Saya no Uta, Narcissu, Planetarian - These are more "normal" VNs, in that they have limited or no choices, and no gameplay. They're also short, well written, and can hold your attention. If you don't like these, I doubt you'll find much else to interest you. Also, pretty much everyone has played them, so you'll share some reference with /jpl.