10 Movies Based on Video Games Worth Watching

When it comes to movies based on video games, you will get many mixed opinions. Over the years, there have been some decent films and some not-so-great.

That said, in general, it is nice seeing your favorite video game character come to life on the big screen. Here are some of the best movies based on video games you should consider watching.

Are All Movies Based on Video Games Bad?

Before getting to the fun part and talking about some decent video game films, it is worth addressing the elephant in the room. For years, there has been a stigma that all movies based on video games are horrendous.

While this has certainly been true for some titles, the same can not be said for all of them. There have definitely been some great movies that have left gaming fans wanting more. Whether most gaming-related films are good depends on personal preference.

Some movies might not have satisfied all fan expectations, but many delivered an excellent watching experience. Way better than Alone in the Dark — which is often regarded as the worst video game movie in film history.

Not saying that all the movies on this list are the best films ever released, but calling them terrible is simply not true. The point is while there might have been a stigma about video game films in the past, it was broken a long time ago.

The Top 10 Movies Based on Video Games

With that misconception out of the way, it is time to get to the nitty gritty that is video game titles. It is worth mentioning that these are only some of the best ones and there are certainly some great titles that did not make the list. Now without further ado, here are some of the best movies based on video games you should consider watching.

1. Mortal Kombat (2021)

First up on the list is Mortal Kombat (2021). Right off the bat, the first thing you will notice is that it certainly has the gore and fatalities its predecessor lacked. It delivers a great watching experience and is filled with breathtaking scenes.

The movie features fantastic fighting moments that will make anyone happy who grew up playing the beloved game. A must-watch film if you love the video games.

2. Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2021)

When this film was announced, people were immediately skeptical and rightfully so. However, the end result was a movie that you couldn’t help but chuckle at.

Many fans were worried the beloved yellow Pokémon would not look right on the big screen. Fortunately, the visuals turned out exceptional and Ryan Reynolds delivered a humorous experience voicing Pikachu.

3. Tomb Raider (2018)

Oftentimes, Tomb Raider is compared to a female Indiana Jones movie just not of the same caliber. That said, this video game movie adaptation did considerably better than the other films played by Angelina Jolie which were often regarded as a hit-or-miss.

The 2018 version stars Alicia Vikander who plays a younger Lara Croft. The film is more realistic and is based on the 2013 video game. Fans who played and loved the game should definitely give this one a try.

4. Assassin’s Creed (2016)

While not on the same level as the older games, the movie is still enticing to watch, especially for fans of the series. It is set in 15th-century Spain and Michael Fassbender takes up the role of the Assassin — Aguilar de Nerha.

While the film is based in the same world, it features an entirely new and original story that further expands on the series. The film does leave a little bit more to be desired but still delivers a decent experience worth watching. If you grew up playing these games, it is a movie you should at least consider.

5. Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

This movie definitely surprised a lot of people. Sonic is an iconic video game character and it was essential to fans that the movie captures the look and feel of him perfectly. The initial representation of the beloved blue speedy ball was not well-received.

That said, after the design team went back to the drawing board, Sonic’s look turned out exceptional. The film was a success and even received a second movie with a third one on the way. If you are a fan of the beloved blue hedgehog, definitely check this one out.

6. Uncharted (2022)

Who does not love action, adventure and treasure-hunting movies? This film came out in 2022 and many people were sceptical about it. That said, Tom Holland did a great job at capturing the essence and spirit of a young Nathan Drake.

The film pays homage to almost all the games in the series and is certainly a title worth watching. There are some scenes that play out very closely to the video games. There is even a cameo of the original voice actor — Nolan North — that fans can’t help but chuckle at.

7. Resident Evil Series (2002 – 2016)

If you are a fan of the beloved video game series, you should definitely check out these movies if you haven’t already. While some of them are a little bit hit-or-miss, they are certainly worth watching.

While Resident Evil requires little introductions, it is an action horror movie series with a lot of gore. The films are based on the games, but in terms of storytelling, they do their own thing. Milla Jovovich has become incredibly popular for the leading role she plays as Alice.

8. Gran Turismo (2023)

Gran Turismo is a series many Playstation fans love. The movie released earlier this year and certainly delivered an entertaining watching experience. It has everything you would expect a great racing film to have.

The enticing thing about this movie is that it tells a true story about Jann Mardenborough who was a gamer that turned professional driver. Racing fans and fans of the series should check this one out.

9. Mortal Kombat (1995)

1995’s Mortal Kombat just had to make an appearance on this list. While the show has cheesy and laughable moments, it’s a great video game movie adaptation. Compared to the CGI of the newest movie, it falls flat on its face.

That said, in terms of fighting scenes, it lives up to the reputation the game has set. If you don’t mind watching a bit of an older movie and you’re in the mood for some badass fight scenes, give this one a go.

10. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Fans were extremely doubtful about this film due to how the last Super Mario movie turned out back in 1993. That said, the movie is a must-watch for fans of the series. One interesting thing to note about the film is that it broke several box office records despite obtaining mixed reviews from critics.

Thanks to a few cameos in the film, you can’t help to have a good time. If you are a fan of this adored series, then this film deserves your attention.

Paying Homage to Some of the Best Movies Based on Video Games

Video game films have always had a controversial reputation. That said, over the years they have gotten a lot better with some truly exceptional releases. While these movies are certainly not the best films ever made, they definitely require your attention especially if you are a fan of the video game series they are based on.