[YakiSauce]

Yeah, DnD is a weird one and it's hard to describe because it's really not like much else. I like to say it's one part shared storytelling and one part complex board game, but I do think you're right that in the end it's really more like playing a big game of choose your own adventure.

One thing to consider is that the DM you have can make a massive impact on your enjoyment of the game. I'd definitely encourage you to give it another shot, maybe with a different DM that more fits what you're looking for. But then again, it's also definitely not for everyone. We've had plenty of friend come into our group and just decide it wasn't for them.