The worlds of video games and television productions have always been connected, but in recent years, this relationship has evolved in surprising ways. Series based on games have gained prominence, delighting both avid gamers and new audiences. This transformation reflects the growing appreciation for the stories present in games, which, when adapted, reach new horizons and consolidate their cultural impact.
The secret to this success lies in the productions' ability to capture the essence of the games' narratives, reimagining them for a series format. More than just recreating iconic scenes or memorable events, the adaptations manage to explore character nuances, enrich the plot, and maintain a balance between fidelity and innovation. This process, in addition to attracting new fans, often boosts interest in the original games, revitalizing the franchises.
Below, we highlight five series that demonstrate how game adaptations have become a staple in global entertainment.
Fallout
The iconic post-apocalyptic RPG franchise has found new life in this adaptation produced by Amazon Prime Video. With a visual style that combines retrofuturism with the melancholy of a devastated world, Fallout transports audiences to scenarios characterized by survival and exploration. The series delves deeply into the game's mythology while maintaining an accessible approach for new viewers. It is available on Prime Video.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Inspired by Cyberpunk 2077, Netflix's animated series Edgerunners expanded the game's universe with a completely new, yet equally captivating, story. The production, praised for its intense narrative and vibrant aesthetic, brought to life the dilemmas of living in an ultra-technological society, where humanity and technology clash at every turn. It's available on Netflix .
Resident Evil: The Series
Adapting a franchise as legendary as Resident Evil is always a challenge. The Netflix series took an innovative approach, blending classic events from the games with new elements to create a fresh perspective on the fight against biological threats.
Despite the mixed reviews, the production brought something that has always been part of Resident Evil's DNA: reinvention. The series reinforced the franchise's enduring appeal and demonstrated that horror remains fertile ground for exploring the relationship between fear, science, and survival. It's available on Netflix .
Arcane
Inspired by the League of Legends universe, Arcane redefined expectations for video game adaptations. The series not only explored the origins of iconic characters like Jinx and Vi, but also delivered a narrative brimming with emotional depth, drama, and intrigue. With stunning visual quality and a script that balances action and intimate moments, Arcane stood out as one of the best productions in the genre. Its impact was so great that it managed to attract viewers who hadn't even played League of Legends. It's available on Netflix .
The Last of Us
When HBO announced its adaptation of The Last of Us, expectations were sky-high—and the result did not disappoint. The series masterfully captured the emotional essence of Joel and Ellie's journey, while expanding on the details of the universe ravaged by the fungal pandemic.
Faithfulness to the source material and impeccable acting were the pillars of the series' success, captivating both fans of the game and those discovering the story for the first time. However, The Last of Us is a perfect example of how the partnership between games and television can result in deeply impactful works. It's available on Max and Prime Video .
The Future of Game-Based Series
The growing popularity of game-based series proves that video games have a narrative potential that transcends console screens. But these adaptations allow rich stories and complex universes to reach diverse audiences, strengthening the dialogue between two of the largest entertainment industries.
However, the success of these productions depends on a delicate balance: respecting the games' roots while innovating in the television format. Ultimately, whether exploring devastated landscapes like in Fallout, or delivering intense emotional moments like in The Last of Us, these series show that the future of adaptations is more promising than ever.
