Establishing a timeline for the “Science Adventure” visual novels connected to “STEINS;GATE” can be tricky, as the best method would be to follow the release order, or play whatever piques your interest. Here’s a list of all the visual novels that contribute to the convoluted yet essential worldbuilding of the series (in order of release):
It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at first, but if you just want to stick to the very basics, start with 2008’s “CHAOS;HEAD,” which takes place in Shibuya in the year 2009 and follows Takumi Nishijou, an otaku shut-in with minimal interaction with the outside world. However, Takumi’s peaceful world crashes down when he clicks on a link depicting an image of a real-life murder that is yet to occur. Some locations in this VN overlap with that of “STEINS;GATE,” and it also features the same antagonist group: the Committee of 300.
Next, hop over to 2009’s “STEINS;GATE,” which got a revamped, animated overhaul with 2018’s “Steins;Gate Elite.” If you ask me, the 2009 version, although dated and much less visually interesting, employs a phone trigger system that impacts the plot and feels much more visceral. There is something more gripping about the events via text as opposed to animated cutscenes, which also have their own value, in case you want to play “Elite” right after.
Continue with 2012’s “ROBOTICS;NOTES” and 2015’s “STEINS;GATE 0” to complete the barebones VN arc, although these experiences can be time-consuming and emotionally taxing in their own right. A thorough enjoyment of “ROBOTICS;NOTES” hinges on references from both “CHAOS;HEAD” and “STEINS;GATE,” so make sure to play through these VNs beforehand.
In case you do not want to play the offshoot VNs at all, wrap things up with 2022’s “ANONYMOUS;CODE,” which takes place in the year 2037 and is marked with chaos and death. It’s an extremely thrilling experience that evokes pertinent existential questions and situates us in a post-apocalyptic setting with cyberpunk elements.
Alright, we’re done! Make sure to be on the lookout for “STEINS;???” a yet-to-be-titled thematic “STEINS;GATE” sequel currently in development, with characters from the original VN reappearing in this entry. While we wait for this upcoming entry, immerse yourself in the beautifully chaotic world of “Science Adventure” visual novels — if you have the patience and time.
