Video game adaptations into movies and TV shows have evolved remarkably, with a variety of upcoming projects eager to bring popular gaming franchises to life. For years, Hollywood struggled with adaptations of video games, often producing disappointing results, as seen in infamous failures such as Super Mario Bros (1993) and the Resident Evil series. However, the landscape has changed, with numerous successful adaptations emerging, including record-breaking animated films and critically acclaimed live-action series that are redefining the possibilities of video game storytelling.
A wave of upcoming adaptations showcases an exciting range of themes and stories from well-known franchises to more obscure titles. While major titles like Mario and Sonic have previously dominated the adaptation scene, the triumph of projects such as Five Nights at Freddy’s and The Last of Us suggests that producers are increasingly willing to take risks on lesser-known titles that merit attention. Below are several anticipated projects that stand out in this evolving landscape.
10 The Legend of Zelda
Nintendo’s Second-Heaviest Hitter
While Mario firmly holds the title of Nintendo’s flagship character, The Legend of Zelda is synonymous with the gaming experience itself. Despite an earlier, less successful animated series, Zelda has yet to reach the cinematic heights achieved by Mario’s recent success. As of 2023, however, Nintendo has confirmed that a franchise film is indeed in the works.
Details remain sparse, with a projected release date of “202X.”Wes Ball, known for his work on the Maze Runner series, is set to direct. His experience with crafting fantastical worlds will be crucial in navigating the vast lore and countless timelines of the Zelda universe, leaving fans eagerly speculating about the potential direction of the film.
9 Until Dawn
Is Practically a Movie Already
Until Dawn is already akin to a cinematic experience, focusing on a narrative-driven horror atmosphere where a group of friends finds themselves trapped in a remote cabin, besieged by masked killers and undead horrors. The theoretical adaptation comes easy to filmmakers, given the game’s light gameplay elements, which center on exploration, quick-time events, and narrative choices.
David F. Sandberg, director of Lights Out and Annabelle: Creation, will helm the movie, bringing his horror expertise to the table. With a young cast ready for the suspenseful tale, this adaptation is slated for release on April 25, 2025.
8 Helldivers
Sony and Arrowhead’s Breakout Modern Hit
The quick transition from successful video games to film adaptations is impressive, as illustrated by Helldivers 2, which has garnered acclaim. Set in a dystopian future, this universe revolves around a united world under a totalitarian government dubbed “Super Earth,”battling sci-fi threats like the insectoid Terminids and machines reminiscent of Terminator.
Drawing on inspirations from films like Starship Troopers, a movie based on Helldivers seems like a natural fit. The humor and satire present in the game provide ample material for adaptation, although details remain limited. The project recently received a screen test during an episode of Secret Level, further igniting interest in its cinematic potential.
7 Iron Lung
Markiplier’s Great Work
Five Nights at Freddy’s demonstrated the potential for indie horror games to transform into box office successes. Although streamer Markiplier was anticipated to appear in that film, he was busy working on his own project, Iron Lung, where he will serve as director, producer, and lead actor.
This unique game places players in a claustrophobic submarine, the “Iron Lung,”navigating through a sea of blood on a distant moon. Following the tragic Titan submersible incident, interest in the game surged, amplifying anticipation for the upcoming film, which promises a creative interpretation of its unsettling themes and atmosphere.
6 Street Fighter
A Return to the Most Iconic Fighting Game Franchise
Despite the checkered history of film adaptations of fighting games, including the infamous Street Fighter (1994), the franchise is set for a fresh start. Scheduled for release in 2026, this adaptation will be directed by YouTube duo Danny and Michael Philippou, known for their compelling fan films.
With the recent success of Street Fighter 6, which revitalizes characters with modern aesthetics, it will be interesting to see how the film incorporates this updated identity versus drawing on nostalgic elements from the past, like Street Fighter II Turbo.
5 Return to Silent Hill
Could Redeem the Beloved Horror Series
As one of the most influential horror titles ever, Silent Hill 2 tells a haunting tale of despair and revelation. Despite two prior film adaptations failing to capture the essence of this iconic story, a third installment, Return to Silent Hill, was announced in October 2022.
With director Christophe Gans returning, there is hope for a more faithful representation of the beloved game’s narrative. However, the challenge remains in creating a compelling adaptation that resonates with audiences recognizing the game’s complex story.
4 Dead by Daylight
Already a Mashup of Horror Movie Icons
Dead by Daylight exists within the horror gaming realm, featuring asymmetrical multiplayer gameplay where one killer hunts four survivors needing to collaborate to survive. The game, known for featuring iconic horror characters, is producing a film in collaboration with Blumhouse Productions and James Wan’s Atomic Monster.
Having a renowned production company behind this project is promising, especially given the film’s potential to blend original characters with horror legends. Fans eagerly anticipate whether the adaptation will stick to the game’s roots or explore avenues with recognizable cinematic horror icons.
3 Portal
Stuck in Development Limbo, But Brimming with Potential
The anticipated Portal film by Warner Brothers is currently more of a hopeful project, languishing in development since its initial announcement in 2021 and with talks dating back even further to 2013.
Chronicling the exploits of Chell and her encounters with the AI GLaDOS, the game is celebrated for its humor and innovative gameplay. Although the film’s prospects are unclear, the potential for a well-executed adaptation from such a beloved source material is undeniable.
2 Hunt: Showdown
A Unique Multiplayer Experience with Deep Lore
While Hunt: Showdown might not be widely recognized yet, its upcoming TV miniseries has the potential to change that drastically. Set in an alternate reality circa 1895, the game combines horror and Western elements, featuring a unique player-versus-player experience where hunters face off against both each other and monstrous foes.
If approached with detailed storytelling and immersive aesthetics, this series could emerge as one of the greatest Westerns in television history, with its rich lore and artistic possibilities promising multiple seasons of engaging content. However, the project’s future remains uncertain due to previous rights issues.
1 God of War
Has the Makings of the Next Great Video Game Adaptation
A God of War series has been announced and aims to adapt the gripping adventure of Kratos, a fierce warrior entangled in a vendetta against the Gods after personal tragedy. The reboot games explore Kratos’s character in a more profound narrative, engaging with the Norse pantheon and his growth as a father.
Following the success of The Last of Us, the narrative depth seen in a God of War show holds great promise. The potential to explore more of Kratos’s Greek origins alongside his Norse journey could provide a rich tapestry for storytelling. While the project faced setbacks, including the departure of its creative team in 2024, there’s hope that this series could surpass previous video game adaptations and redefine the medium.
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