The Best Movies Based on Video Games Ranked from Worst to Best

Movies based on video games have had a tumultuous history, often criticized for falling short of their source material. With a mix of miscalculations, poor adaptations, and production challenges, the genre has struggled to earn its place in cinema.

Yet amidst this challenging landscape, we’ve witnessed a handful of films that have not only succeeded at the box office but have also managed to resonate with fans of the original games. In this article, we’ll explore the best video game-based films, ranked from worst to best, factoring in audience reception, critical acclaim, and relevancy to the game narratives.

10. Super Mario Bros. (1993)

Despite being a cult classic, “Super Mario Bros.” stands as a cautionary tale in video game adaptations. Released in 1993, the film strayed far from the whimsical world of Mario and Luigi, transforming it into a dystopian universe filled with slipshod storytelling. While Bob Hoskins and John Leguizamo deliver noteworthy performances, the movie is often remembered for its missteps rather than its successes.

While it boasts some creative set designs and has garnered a loyal fanbase over the years, many fans view it as a humorously misguided attempt to bring a beloved franchise to the big screen.

9. Resident Evil (2002)

Launching a franchise that spanned six films, “Resident Evil” took inspiration from the iconic survival horror game series. This adaptation focused on introducing original characters, with Milla Jovovich as the lead, Alice, who fights against the Umbrella Corporation.

Though it strayed significantly from the plotlines of the games, it combined effective horror elements with plenty of action, capturing audiences’ attention worldwide. Despite mixed reviews, “Resident Evil” sparked a multimedia franchise that has left a lasting mark.

8. Tomb Raider (2001)

Angelina Jolie starred as the iconic videogame heroine Lara Croft in “Tomb Raider,” a film that was successful enough to spawn a sequel. While the film follows Lara on an adventurous hunt for a mystical artifact, it often felt more like a rehash of existing action-adventure cinema rather than a unique take on the beloved video game series.

However, Jolie’s charismatic performance and the film’s action sequences secured its popularity, and it remains a nostalgic favorite for many fans.

7. Mortal Kombat (1995)

An adaptation of the wildly popular fighting video game franchise, “Mortal Kombat” delivered significant fan service with visually stunning fight choreography. Featuring a blend of martial arts, fantasy, and drama, it was a solid portrayal of iconic characters like Liu Kang and Raiden. Critics and fans had mixed feelings about the overall execution; however, it lay the groundwork for future adaptations and set an entertaining tone.

With its catchy theme song and a nostalgic appeal, this film has garnered a beloved status in the realm of video game adaptations.

6. Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

“Sonic the Hedgehog” was released amid a storm of critical scrutiny, primarily due to its initial design of the titular character. Following a significant redesign, the film delighted both kids and nostalgic gamers alike. Featuring Ben Schwartz as the voice of Sonic, this film offers a fun buddy-comedy narrative while maintaining references to the original franchise.

With humor, heart, and references to the games, it successfully bridged the gap between fans both new and old, leading to a sequel in the works.

5. Detective Pikachu (2019)

Based on the Pokémon franchise, “Detective Pikachu” introduces a unique storyline with Ryan Reynolds voicing the beloved electric mouse. The film cleverly married the video game universe with a classic noir theme, making it enjoyable for both young and adult audiences. Its impressive CGI and committed performances led to critical acclaim, setting a new bar for video game adaptations.

With a mix of nostalgia and originality, “Detective Pikachu” captured the essence of Pokémon while providing an engaging cinematic experience.

4. Warcraft (2016)

Though it struggled at the domestic box office, “Warcraft” found great success internationally, especially in China. The ambitious adaptation of the beloved franchise featured stunning visual effects paired with a compelling story about the conflict between orcs and humans. For fans of the game, it served as a rich, immersive experience that expanded the lore of the franchise while presenting a strong cast and world-building.

While polarizing among critics, the film left an indelible mark on video game adaptations with its high production values and comprehensive grasp of its source material.

3. The Witcher (2019-present)

Based on both the book series and the popular video game franchise, “The Witcher” has proven itself as a successful adaptation that garnered immense praise from fans. Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia embodies the character’s complexity and charm, showcasing a mix of monster-hunting and complex narratives.

With impeccable world-building and engaging story arcs that draw upon both literature and the games, it has distinguished itself as one of the more effective adaptations, transcending mere video game representation.

2. Pikachu’s Amazing Adventure (2019)

While not your conventional video game film, it adapts the concepts from the beloved Pokémon game series. This animated movie captivated families and kids with elements of action, adventure, and humor. Its authenticity, vibrant animation, and heartwarming messages elevate it above many other adaptations, bringing Pokémon’s magic to life.

Both fans of the games and new audiences embraced this film, demonstrating the enduring power of the Pokémon franchise.

1. The Sonic Movie Series (2020-Present)

With its charm, wit, and nostalgia, the Sonic movie series stands out as the most successful and well-received video game adaptation to date. “Sonic the Hedgehog” (2020) paved the way for its sequel, both films offering a colorful representation of the classic video game. The character development and premise resonate with both children and nostalgic adults, making the franchise a powerhouse in the video game movie landscape.

The blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments showcases the true essence of Sonic, earning it a well-deserved top spot in our rankings.

Conclusion

Although many video game adaptations have faltered, the tide is turning with productions embracing the source material’s spirit. The landscape of films based on video games looks promising, with studios finally grasping what fandoms desire: authenticity, heart, and engaging storylines.

As we look forward to future adaptations of iconic franchises, the lessons learned from both the successes and failures of the past will serve as beacons guiding filmmakers in crafting compelling stories that pay homage to their origins.

With the right mix of respect for the source material and imaginative storytelling, the world of video game adaptations holds plenty of potential in its future endeavors.