There are some visual novels that are hybrids between two different genres with the two gameplay styles often being very segmented. Some examples of hybrid visual novels are games like the Zero Escape series where the puzzle solving gameplay and novel sections are very clearly separated. (Giant bomb)

Some visual novels become quite complex, with multiple branching storylines that take the player down completely different paths depending on their choices. These games can have multiple endings, too, determined by the exact choices you make in the game. (MasterClass)

A visual novel’s characters often take the form of sprites that are placed onto a series of backgrounds. Since the genre’s focus relies heavily on narrative, you’ll often only see one background for each different setting. (whatNerd)