In the early days of computer gaming, when text-only interfaces were the norm, one of the most common means of rendering games was with words, and words alone. Some of the earliest games in existence utilize this method of interactivity; lines of text describe the world you inhabit and you type in commands to explore and manipulate the world. These were called text-based adventure games.
As technology has evolved, the genre is far from defunct. Now often called “Interactive Fiction,” there are plenty of authors working to create compelling work from lines of text.
Part of the strength of IF lies in its ability to convey ambiguity (much like with fiction), while still offering player agency. It features interactivity that allows you to explore systems and choices in the way that static media like film or books do not. Not to mention that, without the need for complex art assets, just about anyone with a handle on basic programming can make IF.
Some examples of great modern IF include:
Anchorhead: A sprawling and atmospheric adventure where you play a woman who has recently moved to the New England town of Anchorhead. While settling in, you stumble upon a deeply-rooted Lovecraftian mystery. (Browser playable)@@checked@@
Gun Mute: The story of a mute gunslinger in a weird future where he tries to save his love from a hostile group of bandits. Interesting not only for its quirky story beats, but for the way it asks you to interact with its world: shoot first and ask questions never.  (Install required)@@checked@@
The Warbler’s Nest: A short, unnerving game that explores the power of superstition and the horrifying decisions it can force us to make. (Browser playable)@@checked@@
Shrapnel: Hell-bent on breaking the fourth wall to cinders, Shrapnel uses some surprising techniques to tell a story of the horrors of war.  (Browser playable, may require a java update)@@checked@@