8 Horror Games Getting Adapted into Movies

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Over time, we’ve witnessed various adaptations of horror video games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill. While some managed to capture the essence, others missed the mark that made these fictional tales so chilling. For decades, horror games have been brought to life on the big screen, but now they’re also gaining traction in the streaming world with The Last of Us. With its popularity skyrocketing day by day and numerous remakes, it’s no wonder that more horror games are being transformed into movies, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

If you share my passion for horror, you might be eagerly anticipating your preferred game’s cinematic adaptation, or perhaps you have reservations about how the gameplay and narrative elements will translate to the big screen. Ranging from a faithful recreation to a completely new take, horror game adaptations can be hit or miss. Here are eight upcoming horror game adaptations that are worth keeping on your radar.

Bendy and the Ink Machine

Release date: To be announced

On December 25th, 2023, the film titled Bendy and the Ink Machine is set to be a distinctive blend of mascot horror and vintage Walt Disney-style black-and-white animation. Though the title suggests that it may adapt the storyline from the initial game, there’s no official confirmation about what the movie (BATIM) will actually depict. As for the format, we don’t know whether it will be a live-action production, an animated film, or a combination of both. At this moment in time, details are scarce, but we do know that Radar Pictures is handling production and André Øvredal is directing the project.

The film adaptation of “The Bendy” could effectively incorporate live-action and animation, featuring real actors alongside animated characters, thereby merging fiction with reality. Compared to other games, I strongly believe that “Bendy” holds immense potential for success on the big screen. This is due to its already impressive world-building and convincing setting. Although its gameplay may be repetitive and fundamental, the intriguing narrative would likely transfer seamlessly into another medium.

Dead by Daylight

Release date: To be announced

Back in March 2023, I was hyped for the release of “Dead by Daylight”, a game where Behaviour Interactive brings together some of the most terrifying fictional killers and puts them against a group of brave survivors. It’s like stepping into the worlds of “American Horror Story: 1984” and “Fear Street: 1978”. Since they’ve already created an intriguing narrative with “The Casting of Frank Stone”, I can only imagine how smoothly this concept would translate to a thrilling movie experience.

Other than the fact that Dead by Daylight is produced by Blumhouse, there’s no definitive or confirmed news about its adaptation. As of October 2024, the script for the movie is still being developed, and no updates suggest a potential release date since filming has not commenced yet.

The Exit 8

Release date: 2025

In December 2023, the independent horror game titled “The Exit 8” became well-known through YouTube. This game is set in Japan and features a protagonist who’s trapped inside a subway station, moving along the same corridor in an endless loop. The game combines elements of Einstein’s madness theory with a ‘spot the difference’ challenge, as anomalies are cleverly hidden among common sights or presented as minor details. Not every corridor contains these anomalies; however, the protagonist must advance by moving forward or turning back, depending on whether an anomaly (an element that doesn’t match the original corridor) is present in order to progress.

As a devoted admirer, I believe “The Exit 8” could excel as a brief horror flick rather than a full-length feature. The reason being, its concept originates from a walking simulator game. If brought to life on screen, I envision this adaptation would delve into psychological horror territory, shedding light on the reasons behind these peculiar occurrences or offering a compelling backstory for our protagonist, enabling us to empathize with him more easily.

Five Nights at Freddy’s 2

Release date: December 5th, 2025

In a simplified narrative, the intricate tale of FNAF frequently shifts through different time periods as we piece together clues that contribute to the broader storyline about the spooky robots and William Afton, also known as “Purple Guy.” Although Mike Schmidt’s saga is still unfolding, it appears that the plot for FNAF 2 follows a general trajectory from the second installment of the series.

In the game “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” the setting revolves around the reopening of Fazbear’s Pizzeria, delving into the infamous incident of ’87 known as the bite. However, unlike the original storyline in the games, Mike Schmidt’s tale unfolds differently in these games, contrasting with what was portrayed in the first movie where Vanessa didn’t appear at all. Given the trailer and understanding that the movies are a fresh take on FNAF’s intricate lore, we can infer that the story continues from Mike’s perspective in 2000, excluding Jeremy Fitzgerald from this particular film.

It’s undeniable that with the presence of endoskeletons, toy animatronics, and Mangle, we can be sure of one thing: William Afton will always reappear in some form or another.

Iron Lung

Release date: To be announced

Fear of the vast ocean and mysterious sea creatures dwelling in its depths is called Thalassophobia. The chilling indie game, Iron Lung, has made a significant impact, earning recognition even by YouTube heavyweight, Markiplier. His directorial debut will be an adaptation of Iron Lung, with him playing the main character. In this game, a convict is compelled to delve into the darkest corners of a blood moon, in search of redemption and liberty. However, no one has ever returned from the relentless crimson sea.

The release date for “Iron Lung” is yet to be determined since it’s intended for theaters. Given its unique blend of indie horror and YouTube content, it’s only appropriate that the online community, who might have already watched David Szymanski’s videos, can enjoy a movie crafted by the same YouTuber. On March 10th, 2022, “Iron Lung” was unveiled on YouTube.

Night Shift

Release date: October, 2025

The introduction to the game “Stay Out of the House“, titled “Night Shift“, was crafted by the Puppet Combo team, renowned for their chilling horror scenes. On March 16th, the developer unveiled this upcoming horror title, which appears to be a more modest production compared to games like “Until Dawn ” and “Five Nights at Freddy’s“. This could result in a more intimate, Blair Witch -like experience. Given that it’s merely the prologue of a larger game spanning four chapters, we expect a relatively brief playtime. In “Night Shift“, you’ll follow the story of a young woman working nights at a convenience store, who must confront a deranged killer who has targeted her as his next victim.

In the upcoming “Night Shift” film, it appears that a loyal interpretation has been ensured as it retains the same characters, Debra and Katz. YouTube personality Phu Mau, known as PhuCat103, reprises his role as both the character model and actor for Katz. This movie promises to be a slasher with various content creators such as John Wolfe, Daniel Profeta, and Jamil Khan. Notably, “Night Shift” is directed by Benedetto Cocuzza from Puppet Combo.

Outlast

Release date: To be announced

On October 30th, 2024, Lionsgate revealed plans to rebuild the Mount Massive Asylum for their adaptation of the popular game, Outlast. As of now, a release date has yet to be announced and few details about the plot have been disclosed. The creators of Outlast, Red Barrels, suggested that this collaboration would lead viewers “deeper into the shadows,” indicating that the film may not align with the storyline from the 2013 game.

We’re hoping that the Outlast adaptation dives into the subgenre of found footage horror to tell a thrilling tale that explores the survival horror and supernatural aspects the games have explored in depth. The style should be similar to movies like Cloverfield and Blair Witch, with realistic camera work that prioritizes authenticity over aesthetics when depicting gruesome scenes. Outlast aims to evoke a sense of hopelessness, but we’ll have to wait and see if the adaptation can capture what made the horror game so terrifying.

Return to Silent Hill

Release date: To be announced

In line with the most remarkable love story set within a chilling game environment, “Return to Silent Hill” centers around James Sunderland’s quest to find his deceased spouse, Mary. On October 19th, 2022, it was officially announced through the Silent Hill Transmission that Return to Silent Hill is the third film installment in the series. Unlike the second movie, this new film won’t build upon its narrative but rather stand independently. Similar to Bloober Team’s remake of “Silent Hill 2”, there is a great deal of anticipation for an on-screen portrayal of what I consider the most terrifyingly brilliant video game ever created.

The launch date for “Return to Silent Hill” remains undetermined at this point, however, get ready for some chilling visuals revolving around James’ mindscape and the reappearance of the enigmatic figure known as Pyramid Head.

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2025-04-28 03:11