When people think about video games, a lot of the time they picture violent, first-person shooter games like Call of Duty or platformers like the Mario Brothers series. It's assumed to be a time-wasting activity that 'kills brain cells' as opposed to reading a book or something more productive. However, what many people don't know is the variety of video games that exist. The ones I'm about to list are story-based, meaning that the game itself is driven by the story and it has a very strong and intriguing storyline. These games are similar to books, but more interactive, and if you like reading, you should check these games out!

This is not meant to be a comprehensive list, but simply a sampling of some of the great games out there.

1. To The Moon

If I was thinking about my favorite games of all time, this game would be pretty far up there. If you're looking for a game to make you cry, this is it. Although the graphics are simple RPG-style graphics, the story is practically unbeatable and tells a love story through a lifetime. 10/10 would recommend.

2. The Walking Dead (Seasons 1 & 2)

I know many of you probably watch the TV show "The Walking Dead". Admittedly, I haven't seen it, but regardless I'll still loudly proclaim that the game is better. Sure, zombie games are pretty cliche, but this one gives a completely human approach to it. This game is highly interactive, with a story that changes based on the choices you make. The characters are incredibly complex, and the relationships between the characters just make the game even better. There are too many positive elements to this game to list, but trust me - give it a try.

3. Life is Strange

Speaking of games that change based on the choices you make, let me introduce to you Life is Strange. This game operates on the principles of the Butterfly Effect, showing that even the smallest choices that you make can have a profound effect on the story as a whole. The graphics are unbelievably great, the storyline is interesting, and the character development as a whole is amazing. My only regret is that it's not yet available on Mac.

4. The Last of Us

Full disclaimer: I haven't actually finished this game yet. That being said, what I have seen of it is insane. If you're looking for a game that combines a fantastic storyline with combat-based gameplay, this is it. The graphics are also amazing, and the characters, while rough around the edges, end up with a great dynamic.

5. Beyond Two Souls

Unlike the rest of the games on this list, this game didn't receive quite as great of a critical reception, but I will argue that it's very underrated. This game has a supernatural/psychological mystery that underlies the entire story and gives it a unique edge. The graphics and voice acting are great. The non-linear storyline also is pretty unique and adds mystery to the story. Warning, though: gameplay is minimal and this game feels more like a movie.

6. Heavy Rain

This game is by the same developer of Beyond Two Souls, and plays much the same way, but with more interactive gameplay. The mystery of the game is amazing, and the ending surprised even me. Plus, once again, the graphics are great.

7. Until Dawn

Until Dawn is a horror game, but it's unique in that it's entirely story-driven. It's almost like if you stepped into a horror movie. You get to control who lives and who dies, and the twist endings are pretty cool. The characters are all unique and the story immediately pulls you in.

8. Mad Father

This game is a horror RPG, but in my opinion, the terror in this game does not come from the jumpscares but from the story itself. The twists in this game are super creepy and the game also has enjoyable gameplay!

9. Gone Home

I know what everyone's going to say: "This game is a walking simulator!" But personally, I really liked it. One of my favorite parts of games is just exploring the world around you, and Gone Home creates an eerie environment that, with further exploration, unveils an intricate story.

10. Nancy Drew: Shadow at the Water's Edge

Once again, I'm sure people will be confused as to why I put a "kid's game" on here, but personally I really, really enjoyed this game. It was spooky, had interesting characters and relationships, involved the player in the story, and had interesting puzzles. And of course, the story kept me invested.

11. Professor Layton and the Curious Village

I'll argue that the Professor Layton series is probably one of the most underrated series of all time, but especially this game. Some people might say it's more puzzle-based, but it was definitely the story that kept me invested in this one. The mystery of it is great, and the ending was so shocking that I'm still talking about it to this day. Please, give it a try!