The universe of video games and television productions have always been connected, but in recent years, this relationship has evolved in a surprising way. Series based on games have gained prominence, delighting both regular players and a new audience. This transformation reflects the growing appreciation of 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 the serial format. More than recreating iconic scenes or landmark events, 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 original games, revitalizing 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 the adaptation produced by Amazon Prime Video. With a look that combines retrofuturistic style with the melancholy of a devastated world, Fallout transports the public to scenarios marked by survival and exploration. The series dives deep 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 Edgerunners animation expanded the game's universe with a completely new but equally captivating story. The production, praised for its intense narrative and vibrant aesthetics, brought to life the dilemmas of living in an ultra-technological society, where humanity and technology collide at every moment. It is 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, mixing classic gaming events with never-before-seen elements to create a new perspective on the fight against biological threats.
Despite divided opinions, 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 is available on Netflix .
Arcane
Inspired by the League of Legends universe, Arcane redefined expectations for game adaptations. The series not only explored the origins of iconic characters like Jinx and Vi, but also delivered a narrative filled with emotional depth, drama, and intrigue. With impressive visual quality and a script that balances action and intimate moments, Arcane stood out as one of the best productions of its genre. Its impact was so great that it managed to attract viewers who hadn't even played League of Legends. It is available on Netflix .
The Last of Us
When HBO announced the adaptation of The Last of Us, expectations were very high – and the result did not disappoint. The series masterfully captured the emotional essence of Joel and Ellie's journey, while expanding details of the universe ravaged by the fungal pandemic.
Fidelity to the original material and impeccable performances were the pillars of the series' success, which managed to move both fans of the game and those who were 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 is available on MAX and Prime Video .
The Future of Game-Based Series
The growing popularity of game-based series proves that video games have 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 biggest entertainment industries.
However, the success of these productions depends on a delicate balance: respecting the games' roots while innovating in the television format. Finally, whether exploring devastated scenarios 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.
