Video game adaptions ranked: The best 7 movies and shows based on games

As a die-hard fan of video games and animation, I have to say that the recent surge of high-quality productions based on these beloved franchises has been nothing short of a dream come true. Among them all, Arcane truly stands out as the cream of the crop. Having spent countless hours in Runeterra through League of Legends, I can wholeheartedly attest to the sheer brilliance of this masterpiece.

Video games being adapted into TV and film is not something new.

Numerous games have been adapted for both cinema and streaming platforms, resulting in blockbuster successes as well as notorious failures. Many more adaptations are underway, including movies, animated series, and live-action TV shows based on BioShock, Gears of War, Mass Effect, and numerous other titles.

To have some fun, I’ve climbed to the top of the mountain to sit and organize the best adaptions so far. In order to try and precede the inevitable yelling about “how dare you??!?! Clearly XYZ is the best!!” let me just set the table.

Without a doubt, I strongly endorse every title on this compilation. The entertainment landscape has evolved significantly since the early 2000s, and a film being merely enjoyable with decent casting for its era is no longer sufficient. I’m sifting through the absolute crème de la crème, the top-tier, the must-see masterpieces. Are you prepared? Here are the seven best video game adaptations to date.

7. Dragon Age: Absolution

Initially, the fourth installment in the Dragon Age series was planned to be a game focused on heists, but it eventually became Dragon Age: The Veilguard when released. This original concept was later adapted for the 2022 Netflix series titled Dragon Age: Absolution, which revolves around a team assembled to pilfer a potent Tevinter artifact.

The series offers an entertaining, animated take on another piece of Thedas, featuring an endearing group of characters, notably the lovable Qwydion (Ashly Burch). However, it’s worth noting that while enjoyable, the series falls short in some areas due to its status as a smaller segment of a broader world, offering less depth than any of the games.

Consequently, it might be slightly harder for novices to grasp compared to many others on the list, but if you’re intrigued by the realm of Templars, Blood Mages, and Demons, I would still recommend diving in.

6. Sonic the Hedgehog

It’s remarkable how a universally negative response to Sonic’s initial live-action design led to one of the most surprisingly consistent adaptations a franchise has experienced. The Sonic the Hedgehog movies (and the Knuckles miniseries) are simply delightful to watch, effectively conveying the energy of the title character in an entertaining manner.

Credit for the improved Sonic design in the movie, which initially seemed far from the game’s likeness, largely goes to the delay in the first film’s release. This time allowed the animation teams to refine Sonic’s appearance, making it a more faithful adaptation. Additionally, Dr. Robotnik, played by Jim Carrey, deserves praise for his energetic and humorous physical performances throughout the movie.

The amusement seems set to persist as Sonic the Hedgehog 3 arrives, featuring the unexpected addition of Shadow the Hedgehog, who will be voiced by Keanu Reeves.

5. The Last of Us

Working together with PlayStation Productions and Naughty Dog, HBO is creating an accurate adaptation of the 2013 narrative survival game, The Last of Us. This series follows a smuggler and a teenage girl as they journey through post-apocalyptic America. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey bring Joel and Ellie to life in this show that closely mirrors the game it’s based on. While this isn’t a flaw, viewers who have played the game may find themselves frequently comparing scenes as they watch.

From my tech-loving perspective, what truly shines in this series are the instances where it deviates or delves deeper into its original content. For example, the spine-tingling opening scene featuring John Hannah as a worried scientist really sets the tone. And let’s not forget the emotionally charged third episode that spotlights the complex characters of Bill (Nick Offerman) and Frank (Murray Bartlett), offering a heartbreaking narrative that keeps us hooked.

Starting in 2025, the second season will commence its narrative based on The Last of Us Part 2, with hints suggesting that there may be a third and potentially even a fourth season to follow. (Craig Mazin, co-creator of the series)

4. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Studio Trigger and Cyberpunk fit together perfectly, as demonstrated through Cyberpunk: Edgerunners – a precursor to Cyberpunk 2077. This captivating series follows the journey of a determined street kid, his connections with various companions, the tasks they undertake, and the risks they face when encountering the Arasaka corporation.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners skillfully guides you to the pinnacle of the narrative, only to unexpectedly knock your feet out beneath you with an unsettling accuracy. It’s a captivating tale, but one where the heartrending finale is subtly foreshadowed well before it unfolds.

No one makes it out of Night City.

3. Castlevania

Although there were approximately 100 potential pitfalls when turning Castlevania into an animated series, Powerhouse Animation and Netflix collaborated to handle it with expertly executed gore. The Belmont family’s centuries-long tale of monster hunting has been selectively adapted by the writing team, focusing on intriguing stories while making thoughtful alterations to enrich the backstories and motivations of diverse characters.

The mature tone, stylish presentation, captivating music, and exceptional acting, particularly from Graham McTavish as Dracula, James Callis as Alucard, and Richard Armitage as Trevor Belmont, make Castlevania a standout choice that solidifies its position as a must-see series throughout all four seasons.

The follow-up series, titled “Castlevania: Nocturne,” resumes centuries later seamlessly, delving into the tale of a clandestine vampire plot that unfolds amidst the tumultuous times of the French Revolution.

2. Fallout

Initially, when word broke about the upcoming Fallout TV show, I, like many others, harbored some reservations. However, as I’ve witnessed Kilter Films, Amazon MGM Studios, and Bethesda collaborating, my apprehension has gradually dissipated. They’ve masterfully captured the series’ tone and atmosphere, offering an innovative narrative that aligns with the game’s lore. The portrayal of post-apocalyptic America is both grimly comical and captivating.

In a power struggle among competing factions, Lucy (Ella Purnell), representing the Vault dwellers, Maximus (Aaron Moten) from the Brotherhood of Steel, and The Ghoul (Walton Goggins) find themselves on a head-on clash. This conflict could redefine the Wasteland, offering a blend of comedy, violence, optimism, and encounters with mutants. As I stated in my review of the initial season, it’s apparent that all involved have a deep understanding and appreciation for the source material.

With a second season on the way, there’s even more to be excited for in the future.

1. Arcane

For quite some time, Riot Games and Fortiche diligently worked on crafting an animated tale set within the universe of League of Legends. Eventually, they managed to accomplish this goal.

The story “Arcane” explores themes of contrasts. It features the cities of Piltover and Zaun, as well as characters like Vi and Jinx who are like oil and water. It tells a poignant tale about sisters growing apart and yet finding attraction in their differences, despite ongoing sorrow. The narrative is enriched by spectacular animation and an exceptional soundtrack that accentuates the main plot based on several iconic champions from Riot Games.

Among all the items listed, there’s no necessity to engage with the game itself or have any prior knowledge about it, to be immediately captivated by the enchanting portrayal of Runeterra in Arcane. This Netflix production is a genuine artistic masterpiece, and given that Riot Games are contemplating additional shows within the Runeterra universe, we might never witness another series as unique as this one.

2024-11-24 18:09