Yep, I understand what you mean (played all of them to be honest except Stalker and Counterstrike)

I read this and really enjoyed it. I also read it in a very short time because it sucked me in and found it really engaging.

I read this a few years back and it was excellent. You're right, it really sucks you in. Does anyone have any recommendations for others like it? Jordan Mechner's Prince of Persia diaries were also great.

I bought it, but it is on my long "To Read" list. Seeing everyone praising it has moved it up the list to where I'll have to read it sooner than I planned.

Definitely worth reading, especially if you need a little burst of inspiration to dive in and get stuff done.

Not quite as focused, but another fantastic read in a similar vein is Hackerts. Also, Stay Awhile and Listen, about the Blizzard team that made Diablo.