I don't play untranslated games, and I've passed on a good number of computer games. Most of the VNs that I've read have been console and iOS games, plus a decent amount of freeware and professional translations. So my list might seem a bit odd...
* Konami. Unfortunately, I've misplaced my DS flash cart, so it might be a while before I can play Tokimeki Memorial Girl's Side or LovePlus as they were intended. But both were good experiences. TMGS had enough humor and appealing characters to balance out my complaints about gameplay difficulty. LovePlus had a small cast of characters, and the gameplay experience began to improve after deciding to commit to one love interest. Now I'm interested in seeing the other VNs that Konami has created.
* Pacthesis. This person has managed to take stat-driven romance games made with Flash (aka "sim date" games) and include quality characters, writing, and even some plot.
* Flowerthief. Another awesome freeware creator. Each of his games -- The PK Girl, Idolcraft, and Heartache 101 -- was years in the making, but clearly worth all the time and effort. Good luck finding anything similar in English.
* Hanako Games. An indie game designer who fights fan haters and doesn't afraid of anything. But seriously, this person makes and sells a variety of cute and compelling games. She doesn't seem willing to settle on any gameplay style or format.
...instead of "click click game"
My roots as a fan are in general, complex video games. It took a while before I found a visual novel which was personally interesting, and seemed appropriate to the format (in other words, presented as a VN rather than a comic, a novel, interactive fiction...)
