I usually start my visual novels with a rough draft in a plain text editor or Word, focusing on story and dialogue like a regular novel. Once the core narrative feels solid, I transfer it into Ren’Py, adjusting for branching paths, choices, and visuals.
Writing directly in Ren’Py from the start can work, but I find it easier to get the story “right” first in prose, then adapt it for pacing, transitions, and art. This approach keeps the narrative strong while still allowing flexibility for VN-specific elements.