From Console to Screen: Video Games That Turned Into Movies and TV Series

Video games have jumped from controllers to movie theaters and streaming platforms in a big way.

What started as pixelated adventures on our consoles has transformed into blockbuster films and binge-worthy TV shows.

These adaptations bring beloved characters and epic storylines to life in ways fans never imagined possible, creating a whole new universe of entertainment for gamers and non-gamers alike.

1. The Last of Us

HBO struck gold when they adapted this post-apocalyptic masterpiece into a television series in 2023.

The show follows Joel and Ellie as they navigate a world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into terrifying creatures.

Critics and fans praised the series for staying true to the game’s emotional core while expanding the story in meaningful ways.

Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey brought the iconic characters to life with performances that captured both the tenderness and brutality of survival.

Season two is already in production, proving that faithful adaptations can win over both gaming enthusiasts and general audiences.

The show demonstrates how interactive storytelling can translate beautifully to traditional television formats when handled with care and respect for the source material.

2. Arcane

Netflix’s animated series based on League of Legends became a cultural phenomenon when it premiered in 2021.

The show explores the origin stories of champions Vi and Jinx in the steampunk cities of Piltover and Zaun.

What makes Arcane special is its stunning animation style that blends 2D and 3D techniques to create something truly unique.

The series won both Annie and Primetime Emmy Awards, becoming the first video game adaptation to achieve such critical acclaim.

Even viewers who never played League of Legends found themselves captivated by the complex characters and political intrigue.

The show proves that video game adaptations can stand on their own merits as exceptional storytelling vehicles, reaching audiences far beyond the gaming community.

3. Sonic the Hedgehog Films

Remember when everyone freaked out about Sonic’s original movie design?

Paramount listened to fans and completely redesigned the blue blur, resulting in a box office smash in 2020.

The franchise has grown into a cinematic universe with multiple sequels and a new spin-off movie scheduled for December 2028.

Jim Carrey’s over-the-top performance as Dr. Robotnik became a highlight, bringing nostalgic energy that resonated with longtime fans.

These films balance kid-friendly humor with references that adult gamers appreciate, creating a winning formula for family entertainment.

The success shows how studios can turn initial missteps into triumphs by genuinely listening to their audience and respecting the beloved characters that defined childhoods.

4. The Witcher

Based on both the novels and the wildly popular CD Projekt Red games, Netflix’s The Witcher launched in 2019 with Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia.

The white-haired monster hunter quickly became a streaming sensation, introducing millions to the fantasy world of the Continent.

While technically based on the books, the show’s success owes much to the gaming franchise that brought Geralt’s adventures to global audiences.

The series features epic sword fights, complex magic systems, and morally gray storytelling that fans love.

A fourth season is expected in 2025, though Liam Hemsworth will replace Cavill as Geralt.

The show demonstrates how gaming adaptations can bridge multiple media formats to create something fresh yet familiar.

5. Resident Evil Franchise

Milla Jovovich kicked zombie butt across six films from 2002 to 2016, creating one of the highest-grossing video game movie franchises ever with over 1.2 billion dollars worldwide.

The series took massive creative liberties with the source material, focusing on action over survival horror.

A 2021 reboot called Welcome to Raccoon City attempted a more faithful approach to the games.

Now Sony Pictures has scheduled another fresh start for September 2026, directed by Zach Cregger.

This new film promises to closely follow the storylines from Resident Evil 2, 3, and 4, giving fans hope for a truly authentic adaptation.

The franchise’s persistence shows Hollywood’s ongoing fascination with Capcom’s zombie universe despite mixed critical reception over the years.

6. Uncharted

Tom Holland traded his Spider-Man suit for treasure hunter gear to play a young Nathan Drake in 2022’s Uncharted.

The film explores Drake’s origin story alongside his mentor Sully, played by Mark Wahlberg.

Fans of Naughty Dog’s beloved action-adventure series had mixed feelings about the casting choices and story direction.

However, the movie performed well at the box office, earning over 400 million dollars globally and proving there’s appetite for Drake’s adventures on the big screen.

The film captures the spirit of globe-trotting treasure hunts with spectacular set pieces and witty banter between characters.

While it may not have satisfied hardcore gaming purists, Uncharted succeeded in introducing Nathan Drake to moviegoers who never picked up a PlayStation controller.

7. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Studio Trigger created this stunning anime series set in the dystopian world of Cyberpunk 2077 for Netflix in 2022.

The show follows David Martinez, a street kid trying to survive in Night City by becoming an edgerunner, a high-tech mercenary outlaw.

Critics praised the distinctive animation style and character development that gave depth to the game’s universe.

The series actually boosted interest in the video game itself, creating a rare reverse effect where the adaptation improved perception of its source material.

Edgerunners proves that anime can be the perfect medium for certain gaming properties, allowing for creative visual storytelling that captures the essence of futuristic worlds.

The show’s tragic narrative resonated with viewers, earning emotional investment in characters created specifically for television.

8. Tomb Raider Series

Lara Croft has been raiding tombs on screen since Angelina Jolie first portrayed the iconic archaeologist in 2001.

The character received a grittier reboot in 2018 with Alicia Vikander taking on the role, reflecting the darker tone of the modern video games.

Now Amazon Prime Video is developing a live-action television series with Sophie Turner set to star as Lara.

Production begins in January 2026, perfectly timed to celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary that same year.

This marks an exciting new chapter for the treasure hunter, potentially allowing for deeper character exploration than movies permit.

The shift to streaming television demonstrates how the entertainment industry continues finding fresh formats for gaming’s most enduring heroes and heroines.