8 Great Movies Based on Video Games

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Video game movies have always been a tricky business. Fans want their favorite games to be faithfully adapted, while filmmakers try to make them appealing to everyone, even those who have never played the games. One of the most exciting upcoming projects is the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie. Nintendo and Sony have officially announced that it will hit theaters on May 9, 2026. Directed by Wes Ball, known for The Maze Runner series, this adaptation has fans eagerly waiting to see how the magical world of Hyrule will come to life.

While we wait for The Legend of Zelda, it's worth noting that video game movies have been improving in recent years. Films like Detective Pikachu and Sonic the Hedgehog have shown that it's possible to create fun and successful adaptations. These movies stayed true to the spirit of their games while adding something fresh for moviegoers. The success of these films has paved the way for more ambitious projects like Zelda.

In this list, we take a look at some of the greatest video game movies ever made. From thrilling action to heartwarming adventures, these films bring beloved games to life on the big screen.

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1. Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)

Where to Watch: Plex, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

Tim Goodman is searching for his missing father when he meets a wise-cracking, coffee-loving Pikachu who claims to be a detective. The two form an unlikely partnership to uncover the truth, leading them through a city filled with realistic CGI Pokémon. With a mix of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments, Detective Pikachu is a must-watch for Pokémon fans and newcomers alike.

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2. Werewolves Within (2021)

Where to Watch: Hulu, AMC+, Philo, Shudder, Sundance Now, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home

When a snowstorm traps a group of strangers inside a small-town inn, tensions rise as they realize one of them might be a deadly werewolf. This horror-comedy masterfully blends suspense with witty humor, keeping viewers entertained from start to finish. With a strong cast and an engaging mystery, Werewolves Within is a hidden gem worth watching.

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3. Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

Where to Watch: Paramount Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Plex

Sonic, a blue hedgehog with super speed, is forced to flee his home planet and hide on Earth. But when the evil Dr. Robotnik discovers his existence, Sonic teams up with a local sheriff to stop him. Packed with action, humor, and a fantastic performance by Jim Carrey as Robotnik, Sonic the Hedgehog is an exciting and fun ride for all ages.

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4. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Paramount+, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Plex

In this thrilling sequel, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles face their greatest challenge yet as they battle Shadow, a mysterious and powerful adversary with a dark past. As Shadow wreaks havoc across the world, Team Sonic must form an uneasy alliance with their old nemesis, Dr. Robotnik, to stop him. Packed with thrilling action scenes, this sequel is just as good as the first one.

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5. Gran Turismo (2023)

Where to Watch: Hulu, fuboTV, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

Based on a true story, this film follows a teenage gamer who turns his skills in the racing simulator Gran Turismo into a real-life career as a professional driver. With intense race sequences, breathtaking visuals, and an inspiring underdog story, Gran Turismo proves that dreams can become reality with enough determination and passion.

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6. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

Mario and Luigi find themselves transported to the Mushroom Kingdom, where they must work together to stop the villainous Bowser from taking over. With vibrant animation, beloved characters, and a fun-filled adventure, The Super Mario Bros. Movie captures the spirit of the classic games while offering something new for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

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7. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001)

Where to Watch: Netflix, Paramount+, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand, Plex, Kanopy, Hoopla

Lara Croft, a fearless archaeologist, embarks on a dangerous quest to recover an ancient artifact before it falls into the wrong hands. Filled with daring stunts, exotic locations, and an iconic performance by Angelina Jolie, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider delivers an action-packed adventure worthy of the legendary video game series.

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8. Mortal Kombat (1995)

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

A group of skilled fighters is invited to compete in a mysterious tournament with the fate of the world at stake. With intense martial arts battles, iconic characters, and a memorable soundtrack, Mortal Kombat is a cult classic that remains a favorite among fans of the franchise. Its over-the-top action and faithful adaptation of the game make it a must-watch for fighting game enthusiasts.