7 Best Video Game Movies (And The 3 Worst)

As a lover of both films and video games, I’ve seen firsthand how challenging it can be to translate the captivating worlds of video games into the silver screen. For years, Hollywood has attempted-and largely fallen short-in creating movie adaptations that resonate with fans. Scripts often lack finesse, deviations from game lore are common, and budget limitations have resulted in less-than-stellar special effects. However, it’s not all doom and gloom!

Thanks to advancements in technology and a new wave of filmmakers who truly understand the essence of the games they’re adapting, we’ve been fortunate enough to witness a revitalization of video game movies that stay true to their roots. Of course, some of these adaptations don’t quite hit the mark as intended, but overall, the landscape is improving!

Here’s our ranking of the seven best and three worst video game movies.

7) Resident Evil (2002)

Capcom’s Resident Evil revolutionized horror gaming, and Paul W.S. Anderson’s 2002 movie established a cinematic series that has persisted for longer than The Walking Dead. Although the film deviated from the initial narrative, it launched the memorable character Alice (played by Milla Jovovich), and paved its own path with fast-paced action, haunting visuals, and a touch of bio-horror strangeness to remain faithful to the franchise.

The unique appeal of Resident Evil lies in its unapologetic spirit, refusing to shy away from its origins as a video game. It embraced over-the-top action scenes, grotesque monster transformations, and corporate terror, all hallmarks of B-movie chaos. This franchise has constructed an empire on this chaotic foundation, and for many viewers, the very chaos they expected was delivered. Despite its flaws, it’s indisputably influential, paving the way for the wave of successful video game adaptations we witness today.

6) Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

Sonic the Hedgehog almost became a catastrophe. The frightening design of Sonic in the first trailer alarmed fans greatly, prompting them to seek a solution. In an unprecedented move for pop culture, Paramount heeded their voices. By modifying Sonic’s appearance, they rescued the movie from disaster, resulting in a clever and amusing family blockbuster that appealed to both children and nostalgic Sega enthusiasts.

Ben Schwartz adds charm and confusion to the character of Sonic the Hedgehog, yet it’s Jim Carrey’s energetic portrayal as Dr. Robotnik that takes center stage. His comedic style, reminiscent of his past roles, seems like a delightful throwback. The success of Sonic comes from its ability to embrace its own silliness without turning into a caricature. The original movie successfully combined action, humor, and emotion while honoring Sonic’s video game roots, and this balance has been maintained in the sequels.

5) Tomb Raider (2018)

There have been multiple attempts at adapting Tomb Raider, but Alicia Vikander’s portrayal of Lara Croft in 2018’s reboot stands out. Her depiction presents a more down-to-earth, fragile, and authentic Lara. This character was influenced by the 2013 Crystal Dynamics video game. She experiences physical injuries, hunger, and maintains her resilience. The high-flying, double-gunning, flamboyant acrobatics of the Jolie era have been replaced with grit, emotion, and genuine tomb raiding in this version.

The action scenes are powerfully portrayed, with the waterfall scene being particularly thrilling, reminiscent of the game. However, what truly shines is the deep emotional impact of Lara’s journey. Vikander convincingly makes you feel the character’s struggles and growth. While it didn’t set box office records, it accomplished something more significant; it stayed true to the game and elevated Lara Croft beyond a mere sex symbol. For devoted franchise fans, it was a refreshing reboot that added layers of depth to the character.

4) Warcraft (2016)

Among the video game adaptations listed, Warcraft stands out as one of the most undervalued and perhaps the most daring, directed by Duncan Jones who is known for movies like Moon and Source Code. The film delves deeply into the rich mythology of Azeroth without simplifying it for casual viewers. Although the plot can be complex and may seem intimidating to those new to the series, for fans of World of Warcraft and fantasy enthusiasts, this movie offers a wealth of backstory, characters, and stunning CGI. The orcs, in particular, have been given a level of emotional depth and complexity through motion capture performances that is not often seen.

Despite mixed reviews, the movie’s global box office performance told a different tale. It raked in more than $400 million worldwide, achieving massive success in China and garnering a devoted fanbase among dedicated World of Warcraft enthusiasts. Its enduring popularity underscores that films based on games can strive for grandiose, spectacular narratives if they are willing to take risks.

3) A Minecraft Movie (2025)

The notion of transforming a sandbox game without a storyline into a full-length film seemed like a creative dead end. However, Minecraft: The Movie spins conventions on their head, much like an out-of-control Redstone contraption. Directed by Jared Hess, who gained fame with Napoleon Dynamite, and featuring both Jack Black and Jason Momoa, this animated journey embraces the absurdity and creativity that are hallmarks of Mojang’s blockbuster game.

This movie centers around an eclectic band of protagonists embarking on a mission to protect their pixilated realm. It offers a mix of humor, tender scenes, and witty references to Minecraft gameplay mechanics. Numerous spectators have likened it to “The Lego Movie combined with How to Train Your Dragon – complete with creepers.” It’s amusing, peculiar, and unexpectedly emotional.

2) Silent Hill (2006)

The film adaptation of Silent Hill could arguably be the most terrifying video game movie ever produced, achieving this status by its careful crafting of tone and ambiance. Director Christophe Gans skillfully transformed Konami’s psychological horror masterpiece into a visually captivating, intensely disquieting cinematic journey.

As soon as Radha Mitchell’s character steps into the town shrouded in mist, the movie grabs you with a sense of foreboding. The shifts to the “Otherworld” are skillfully done, featuring rusted metal, fire, and blood that create a terrifying dreamscape. The creature designs, notably Pyramid Head and the nurses, have been taken directly from the games and continue to give fans chills even after almost two decades.

Despite becoming somewhat confusing in its latter stages, there’s no arguing against the movie’s visual style and dedication to the original game material. The film Silent Hill demonstrated that video game horror could be brought to life with genuine cinematic intent, and it continues to stand as a significant benchmark for the genre.

1) The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, let me tell you that after the peculiar live-action movie in 1993 left many Mario fans apprehensive about another big-screen venture, the 2023 release of The Super Mario Bros. Movie swiftly dashed those worries away, just as quickly as a Goomba meets Mario’s boot!

As a die-hard fan, I can confidently say that the animated extravaganza from Illumination Studios truly hit the mark by serving up non-stop fun! The dazzling graphics, fast-paced action, and constant nods to decades of Nintendo history made this movie an instant favorite for both children and adults with a sentimental past. To top it all off, Mario’s voice actor, Charles Andre Martinet, even made a special appearance as Mario’s father, Guiseppe – talk about fan service!

Initially, some people were skeptical about Chris Pratt’s portrayal of Mario, but once they watched the entire film, he gained numerous admirers. Add Jack Black playing Bowser into the mix, and we have a timeless classic on our hands. To top it off, Black’s song “Peaches” turned out to be an unforgettable summer hit.

Globally, it has generated more than $1.3 billion, making it the highest-grossing video game adaptation ever. What’s even more significant is that this success underscores the fact that when creators have faith in their source material, they can strike a vein of pure golden outcomes.

THE WORST VIDEO GAME MOVIES

3) Borderlands (2024)

The game Borderlands, known for its energetic chaos, unique cell-shaded art, and over-the-top characters, was expected to be a home run. However, it ended up being a significant letdown. Prior to its launch, test screenings were disastrous, with criticisms of inconsistent tone and unimpressive humor. A director change during production for reshoots didn’t improve the situation, and fans were already disappointed before the first trailer was released.

If you believe that it might captivate audiences unfamiliar with the game, you’d be mistaken. There’s little action taking place. The colors are vivid, and some characters exhibit enthusiasm, but ultimately it’s dull. You won’t find yourself cheering for any character, and given the talented cast, this lack of excitement is even more disappointing. What makes it particularly frustrating is the squandered opportunity. A genuine Borderlands adaptation should embody a chaotic, R-rated cartoon atmosphere with guns. If it turns out to be ordinary instead, that’s a greater letdown than Handsome Jack’s arrogance.

2) Tekken (2009)

The reason this ranks higher than the mediocre attempt at Borderlands is due to the fact that it wasn’t widely recognized as a production. To put it bluntly, Tekken (2009) serves as an exemplary case of how not to adapt a fighting game. The film, which is very loosely based on Bandai Namco’s popular franchise, manages to drain all the unique character and intense rivalries from its roster known for their eccentric backstories and hard-hitting battles. Instead, it offers a dull, direct-to-video feel with unremarkable acting and uninspiring fight sequences.

In this rephrased version, the characters seem to have no resemblance to their video game versions. The martial arts sequences appear uninspired and lacking in effort. Additionally, the storyline of a dystopian competition is both dull and illogical. This film is based on a series renowned for its depictions of devilish lasers and boxing-gloved kangaroos, yet it presents everything in an unusually dull manner.

Spectators didn’t expect a Tekken film to be heavy Oscar contender material, yet they desired a true-to-life, visually appealing martial arts fight scene. Unfortunately, what they received was a string of questionable choices that resulted in a movie so poor it grossed only $1.6 million at the box office.

1) Super Mario Bros. (1993)

Back in the ’90s, I couldn’t help but marvel at the audacity of Hollywood. They took a beloved video game like Super Mario Bros., tossed out every aspect that made it iconic, and created a film that bore no resemblance to the original IP. The ’90s were filled with such blunders, but none compared to the chaotic mess that was the first Super Mario Bros. movie.

This creation appears as if designed by ChatGPT during a dreamy state, transforming into HAL from the movie “2001 Space Odyssey.” Instead of their traditional roles, Mario and Luigi are now plumbers in a gritty cyberpunk city overseen by Dennis Hopper’s Koopa, a character far removed from his turtle namesake. Yoshi here takes on an intimidating mini-raptor form, and the Goombas have undergone a drastic transformation that no longer resembles their original selves. This peculiar adaptation is one of the most bizarre reimaginings ever, garnering a cult following for its eccentricity. Despite this, it serves as an excellent example of what not to do. The fact that Nintendo waited 30 years to attempt another version speaks volumes.

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2025-08-05 23:57