If like to read and play video games at the same time? Try out the various interactive novel selections on Choice of Games.

We’ve all played games wherein we didn’t exactly like the ending. Unfortunately, most storylines are linear, and you have no choice but to watch the events unfold. But what if you play a game wherein your choices decide the ending? In this case, several games come into mind, like Japanese visual novels and the titles released by Telltale Games. Thing is, you need to pay a pretty penny just to play these. Plus, you’ll need to own a console or a more powerful mobile device which is luxury some of us can’t afford.

Fortunately, there are numerous games out there which allow you to decide the ending on your own, and most of them are fully or partially free-to-play. All of which are made by Choice of Games, and these are part game, part novel. The right term for them would be “interactive novels”, and you take the mantle of the protagonist, and your choices weigh heavily on how the story turns out or ends.

The novels follow a chronological set of events, and your task is to make choices on the things you want to do when they happen. That being said, the rewards - or consequences - of your actions will be known or felt later on. Bear in mind that your character will have its own set of attributes (like strength, charm, intelligence, charisma) and when doing certain actions, he or she might fail if these can’t reach the appropriate amount. Take note that even health and short sentences about your character’s current status will be shown.

One outstanding example of this is in one of their first titles, Choice of Dragons. Here, you get to play as a dragon: you can choose his name, the color of his scales, and if his wings are leathery or scaly. You can either be a brutal and oppressive ruler, or a scheming mastermind who makes the most out of the situation.

Take note however, that all of these games are text-based. You can play these on their website, though they can be downloaded on mobile devices. That said, the gameplay is simple: read the text which shows how the story is progressing, and pick from a set of options as soon as you reach certain points. There are barely any visual aids or designs: everything is described in text, and you need to vividly imagine the events that are unfolding.

Although this may put off some gamers who want to want real graphics and illustrations, those who are book readers and love playing games at the same time will have an outstanding experience. The thrill of moving to the next page, especially if you’re about to learn the consequences of your actions, or if your choice to do a certain action was the right one. In one of their games, Choice of Romance, you will get to play a person of the court. Your actions decide who your spouse is, and your character’s fate is decided by which.

In any case, the interactive novels provided by Choice of Games dish out a unique gaming experience. Though the games may definitely not be for everyone, they might be what you’re looking for.