The TV shows on this list will surely impress you if you have just played the games!
Typically, video games tend to be adapted into movies rather than television series. It's widely observed that many of these adaptations often fail to impress critics or fans. While there are exceptions, most of them are seen as mere attempts to capitalize quickly on the game's popularity. However, in this list, we bring those rare adaptations that do justice to the beloved video games.
Since its debut in 1996, Pokémon has expanded into a vast multimedia empire, including a card game, numerous main entries and spin-offs, and multiple movies. The anime series, known for its themes of friendship and coexistence, has become one of the longest-running and most successful in history. Even though its primary audience is children, the show has garnered a massive following due to its adventurous spirit and universal appeal. Its enduring quality and nostalgic value have cemented it as the premier example of a successful video game-to-television adaptation.
The Fallout television series, inspired by the immensely popular video games, marks another triumph in the trend of successful video game adaptations for television. Set in a retro-futuristic America following a nuclear apocalypse, the Amazon Prime show tracks Lucy MacLean (played by Ella Purnell), a vault dweller embarking on a quest through radiation-ravaged Los Angeles to find her father after surviving 200 years underground. Praised by both fans and critics, Fallout faithfully honours its source material while attracting millions of new viewers. With its gritty protagonists, lawless setting, and stylish presentation, the series sets a new benchmark for video game adaptations.
The Last of Us, a live-action adaptation of the acclaimed video game, has garnered widespread praise from fans and critics alike for its stellar translation to the small screen. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, the series unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal zombie plague. Amidst growing brutality, a jaded soldier is entrusted with safeguarding a young girl whose immunity offers hope for humanity's survival. With Neil Druckman, co-developer and creative director of the original game, onboard as a creator, the series faithfully follows its source material. This gripping narrative seamlessly blends zombie horror with poignant drama, tackling themes of loss, family, sacrifice, and morality. After just one season, it has emerged as a modern television phenomenon.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, an expansion of the popular game Cyberpunk 2077, excelled as an anime adaptation of its sci-fi universe. While the game faced initial criticism before earning respect, the series immediately captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and intense action scenes. Set in the dystopian Night City, it follows a street kid turned "edgerunner," a tech-enhanced mercenary navigating a world of crime and corruption. With 10 episodes packed with action and style, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners delivers an exhilarating experience for both fans of the game and sci-fi anime enthusiasts.
Arcane, released on Netflix in 2021, pleasantly surprised viewers with its adaptation of League of Legends, a PC-exclusive MOBA-style game. Despite the game's popularity, the show exceeded expectations and appealed to both newcomers and long-time fans alike. Centred on the character VI, a playable champion in the game, Arcane introduced many familiar faces to audiences. With its captivating storyline, it transcended its gaming origins to become one of the most acclaimed game-to-television adaptations, boasting a rare 100% critic score and a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Some honourable mentions on the list would be beloved adaptations like 'Castlevania', 'Gangs of London’, 'Halo', 'Dragon's Dogma', and 'Detention'.
