Originally Posted by
anon
Before we think of a separate thread, I'd say start with Heart of the Woods (visual novel), Lonely Yuri (visual novel; short but good), maybe Yuru Yuri (manga, also got animated). Other visual novels include Love Ribbon, Sisterly Bliss, Lilycle Rainbow Stage, Highway Blossoms. Not sure they're on the same level of thought-provoking, but feel free to check the plot summaries and decide if they're worth your time. There's also Sono Hanabira, but that's school slice of life: cute with some funny moments and some drama, yet unlikely to change your life.
Lonely Yuri actually had a strange calming effect... the rather quiet background music and NVL layout (text covers the entire screen) make you feel like you're reading a book while having tea on a rainy day. Sounds strange, but if you give it a try you'll see what I mean.