15 Must-Watch Movies and Shows based on game
The line between video games and movies/shows is blurring faster than Mario dodging a Goomba. This list dives into 15 must-watch movies and shows based on video games, bringing your favorite gaming worlds to life right on your screen! These picks capture the excitement and the spirit of the games we love, from action-packed adventures to emotional journeys. You can also check out our recommendations, so you can jump right from reading to experiencing them for yourself.
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Top 15 Best Video Game Adaptations
1. Fallout
Release date: April 10, 2024
Platform: Prime Video
Related game: Fallout 4, Fallout 76, Fallout 3, Fallout Classic Collection, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel, Fallout: New Vegas
This post-apocalyptic drama takes us to a future Los Angeles ravaged by nuclear war, where survivors struggle to rebuild their lives in an irradiated wasteland. The show perfectly captures the dark humor and intense world of the Fallout games, with mutated creatures, resource scarcity, and factions vying for power. With 65 million viewers in the first two weeks of release. If you love the Fallout universe, this is a must-watch!
2. The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Release date: April 5, 2023
Platform: Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV
Related game: Super Mario Bros. Wonder, New Super Mario Bros. U, Super Mario Maker 2, Mario Kart 8
Brooklyn plumber Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt) finds himself in the vibrant Mushroom Kingdom after tumbling down a pipe. He must rescue Princess Peach (voiced by Anya Taylor-Joy) from the evil Bowser. The movie throws a fun twist on the classic game, taking us on a wild adventure through a world filled with live-action Goombas, Koopa Troopas, and a totally off-the-wall plot. It might not be a perfect reflection of the game, but it's a hilarious and nostalgic trip for any Mario fan. And the new movie of Super Mario has been confirmed by Nintendo to release in Japan in 2026!
Release date: September 13, 2022
Platform: Netflix
Related game: Cyberpunk 2077, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty DLC
This Netflix’s anime is a visual feast for fans of Cyberpunk 2077. It takes you to Night City, a futuristic world brimming with cybernetically enhanced humans, dazzling technology, and dangerous underground dealings. Just like the game, the story is dark, action-packed, and full of tough choices in a world obsessed with power and augmentation.
Release date: January 15, 2023
Platform: HBO
Related game: The Last Of Us Part 1, The Last Of Us Part 2
The Last of Us is a heart-wrenching story of survival and companionship set in a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by a deadly fungus. Follow Joel, a hardened smuggler tasked with escorting Ellie, a teenage girl who might hold the key to a cure, across the dangerous wasteland. The show stays true to the core themes of the game – the struggle for survival, the importance of human connection, and the tough choices we make in desperate times.
5. Spider-Man
Release date: May 3, 2002
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Netflix, Prime Video
Related game: Marvel's Spider-Man Remastered, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Marvel's Spider-Man 2
Web-slinging from the pages of comics and into countless movies and shows, Spider-Man remains a constant source of fantastic adaptations. From the live-action trilogies to the recent animated hit "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2019)”, the Oscar-winning in Best Animated Feature and more awards winner at the Annies, Golden Globes, BAFTA and Producers Guild Awards
6. Arcane
Release date: November 6, 2021
Platform: Netflix
Related game products: League of Legends Game Card
League of Legends might not be the first game that comes to mind for a compelling adaptation, but Arcane shatters expectations. It is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant Netflix series that transcends its source material. Dive into the world of Piltover and Zaun, two clashing cities powered by magic and technology. The story follows complex characters caught in the midst of a brewing revolution, exploring themes of social inequality, technological advancement, and the consequences of progress.
7. The Witcher
Release date: December 20, 2019
Platform: Netflix
Related game: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, The Witcher 2 Assassins of Kings
Based on the popular fantasy novels and video games, Geralt of Rivia's monster-hunting adventures have captivated gamers for years, and the Netflix series adaptation brings The Witcher's world to life in spectacular fashion. Henry Cavill embodies the gruff monster slayer perfectly, and the series stays true to the core themes and dark fantasy elements of the games.
Release date: May 3, 2019
Platform: Apple TV
Related game: Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!, Pokemon Sword & Shield, Pokemon: Brilliant Diamond
This live-action/CGI hybrid film throws a curveball at the Pokémon franchise, introducing a world where humans and Pokémon work together. Ryan Reynolds' witty portrayal of Detective Pikachu elevates the movie, making it a fun and engaging experience for both Pokémon fans and newcomers.
9. Warcraft
Release date: May 26, 2016
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, HBO, Netflix, Prime Video
Related game: World of Warcraft: Shadowlands, World of Warcraft: Dragonflight, World Of Warcraft Game Card
While not without its flaws, Warcraft boasts stunning visuals and attempts to capture the epic world-building of the popular strategy game franchise. For fans of the lore and orcish warriors, it's worth checking out, especially for the impressive CGI battles.
10. Resident Evil
Release date: March 22, 2002
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Netflix
Related game: Resident Evil Village, Resident Evil: Revelations, Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 4, Resident Evil 5, Resident Evil 6, Resident Evil 7 biohazard
A classic zombie apocalypse experience with iconic characters like Alice. The Resident Evil franchise has seen numerous film adaptations. While opinions vary, the sheer number of entries ensures there's something for every horror and zombie enthusiast.
11. Castlevania
Release date: July 7, 2017
Platform: Netflix
Related game: Castlevania: Lords of Shadow, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 - Revelations DLC
Another animated series on Netflix, a fantastically dark and gothic take on the classic vampire hunting game franchise. With stunning animation, a compelling story of revenge, and memorable characters like Trevor Belmont and Alucard, Castlevania is a must-watch for fans of mature animation and dark fantasy.r.
Release date: February 27, 2020
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, Netflix
Related game: Sonic Frontiers
The speedy blue blur has gotten a modern makeover in these live-action/CGI hybrid movies. Combining fast-paced action with humor and a surprising amount of heart, these films follow Sonic as he teams up with his newfound human friend, Tom Wachowski, to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik. Perfect for families and fans of the classic Sonic games, these movies capture the playful spirit of the franchise.
13. Tomb Raider
Release date: March 24, 2022
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
Related game: Tomb Raider, Rise of the Tomb Raider, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
This reboot of the Tomb Raider franchise throws Lara Croft into a thrilling adventure, showcasing her origin story and growth into a skilled tomb raider. With strong performances and action sequences, this film is a worthy successor to the popular game series.
14. Halo TV Series
Release date: June 11, 2001
Platform: Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
Related game: Halo 5: Guardians
A live-action adaptation of the popular sci-fi video game franchise. Set in the 26th century, it depicts humanity's fight for survival against the Covenant, a powerful alien alliance. Master Chief John-117 - a genetically enhanced supersoldier – and his AI companion Cortana. The show explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the cost of war, with some deviations from the original game storylines
15. NieR: Automata
Release date: January 8, 2023
Platform: Netflix, Prime Video, Crunchyroll
Related game: NieR: Automata, Nier Replicant
The year 5012. Relegated to the moon, humanity's hope rests on an android soldier unit they send to fight the machine lifeforms taking over Earth. And season 2 is set to premiere in Japan on July 5, 2024. This critically acclaimed action RPG from Yoko Taro boasts a beautiful world, a complex story with multiple endings, and a philosophical exploration of humanity and existence.
So Grab Your Popcorn and Enjoy this Marathon!
The future of video game adaptations looks bright. With advancements in technology and a growing recognition of the storytelling potential of games, we can expect even more high-quality and diverse adaptations in the years to come. This list offers just a glimpse into the ever-expanding world of video game adaptations. With new projects constantly in development, there's always something exciting to look forward to.
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