It’s a Hollywood axiom that video game adaptations fail. Prince of Persia, Hitman, and Max Payne are some of the movies that didn’t live up to their expectations. However, in recent years, the industry appears to have finally cracked the code on bringing video games to the big screen. Thus, films like Sonic the Hedgehog and Uncharted became global sensations, and Super Mario Bros. completely broke all previous records, collecting an unprecedented $1.36 billion. The series “The Witcher” and “The Last of Us” (best adaptation won at The Game Awards 2023) also became hits that the audience fell in love with. All these successful examples show that film companies will continue to make movies and TV series based on the plots of popular video games. And we’ve compiled a list of the most anticipated video game adaptations that are set to release shortly. So stay tuned!
Warcraft 2 (TBA)
The 2016 Warcraft movie based on Blizzard’s immensely popular and ongoing franchise aimed to overcome the stigma associated with video game adaptations. While the film didn’t entirely meet fans’ expectations, there are some rumors about a potential reboot in its development. Director Duncan Jones revealed his plans for a trilogy of Warcraft series in a post on X (formerly Twitter) outlining the plot for each installment. However, Blizzard remains tight-lipped, possibly due to internal issues or its acquisition by Microsoft, a process now concluded after a 20-month battle with regulators in the UK and US. With this resolved, fans are optimistic about the prospect of Warcraft 2.
The recent release of World of Warcraft has reignited interest in lore-related content, fueling hopes for a Warcraft 2 announcement. The game introduces new dungeons, the Amirdrassil raid, and formidable bosses like Fyrrak. Players, as always, face the challenge of saving Azeroth, and for those seeking an easier path, a WoW carry boost service is available. Turning to professional gamers for help, you can conquer all bosses on any difficulty and reap unique rewards.
While the likelihood of Warcraft 2 being directly based on the expansion is small, the conclusion of the first film suggests that Thrall might take center stage in the sequel. The original film’s impressive box office earnings of nearly $440 million, a solid 76 percent fan rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and Duncan Jones’s expressed commitment to a trilogy make a Warcraft 2 release in the near future more plausible than ever.
The Last of Us Part II (TBA)
The zombie apocalypse is showing no signs of slowing down. The Last of Us adaptation has surpassed Game of Thrones in terms of viewership, boasting an impressive average of 44 million viewers per episode. The premiere episode was watched for a staggering 837 million minutes, setting a record high and outpacing even “House of the Dragon.”
Given these remarkable figures, it’s hardly surprising that creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin are diligently working on adapting the game’s sequel, The Last of Us Part II, into an additional television season. Without delving into spoilers for those unfamiliar with the video game, it’s safe to assume that the upcoming season two will propel the narrative forward in time, exploring the repercussions of Joel’s pivotal decision regarding his and Ellie’s relationship after season one.
Tomb Raider (TBA)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the creator and star of Fleabag, has agreed to revamp the Tomb Raider franchise – yet again. Angelina Jolie played the British aristocrat-turned-treasure hunter in the 2001 film, and Alicia Vikander took over in 2018. None of the Lara Croft films have gone down in history as cinematic masterpieces. She is, nevertheless, a complicated character. While she was likely the first female video game character to burst into the mainstream, Lara Croft was created primarily to be admired. Lara luckily got a makeover in the 2010s games, with a more realistic form and a richer past. Waller-Bridge may bring her caustic sense of humor to the plot and poke fun at the character’s complicated past.
Assassin’s Creed (TBA)
The 2016 Assassin’s Creed film starring Michael Fassbender was a box office flop. However, Netflix is seeking to extract numerous different shows from the franchise, producing both live-action and anime adaptations. The plot of the Assassin’s Creed games becomes sophisticated soon, involving a millennia-long conflict between the Order of Assassins and the Knights Templar. The crucial thing to understand is that each game is set in a different location and period – Renaissance Italy, the American Revolution, Ancient Egypt – and calls for a historically-minded globe-trotting spectacle on a grand scale.
Ghost of Tsushima (TBA)
Ghost of Tsushima is being adapted into a feature picture by John Wick 4’s director Chad Stahelski. The game was a smash hit for Sony and developer Sucker Punch Entertainment, selling over 9.7 million copies, making it one of Sony’s fastest-selling original games. While no release date has been set, fans can expect the adaptation to be one of Stahelski’s next projects.
It is expected to be an epic historical drama set in feudal Japan in the 13th century. Jin Sakai, a disgraced samurai, seeks vengeance on a Mongol commander who invaded his home and massacred his family. The game was praised for its snappy narrative, breathtaking open world, and exciting fighting.
Summing Up
In the buzzing world of video game adaptations, Hollywood is serving up some major treats. Think Sonic the Hedgehog and Uncharted levels of thrill. Now, picture Warcraft 2, The Last of Us Part II, a fresh take on Tomb Raider, Netflix diving into Assassin’s Creed, and Ghost of Tsushima under Chad Stahelski’s watch. Whereas release dates are still a mystery, the excitement is real. One thing we can say for sure — you should buckle up for a cinematic joyride. The screen’s about to get lit with our favorite games, and it’s a share-the-popcorn moment for all of us.
