Over the years, we’ve seen plenty of video game movie adaptations come to the fore. While not every movie release has recorded huge numbers and can be deemed a box office hit, there have been some top titles that have been worth watching.
After all, given the popularity of both gaming and movies, it’s a film genre that can appeal to millions of viewers around the world. The same people who adore McLuck’s games like 333 Fat Frogs and classic movies like The Shawshank Redemption can also immerse themselves in a strong selection of video game movies. In fact, we’re seeing it even more these days, with productions like The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Detective Pikachu doing fairly well. However, the options don’t end there.
So, without further ado, below we briefly highlight some of the finest movies based on video games. From ‘90s classics to some modern-day gems, there are some excellent movies to check out here.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
A truly iconic series of games by the Japanese developers Yuji Naka, Naoto Ohshima, and Hirokazu Yasuhara for Sega, the Sonic the Hedgehog games have entertained millions of gamers, young and old. In the end, the appetite for more Sonic creations resulted in the establishment of a series of movies. While the first two films also deserve a mention, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the best of the lot for many gamers and movie fans alike. Released in 2024, the production features Sonic and his cheeky buddies throughout, with the likes of Idris Elba, Jim Carrey, Keanu Reeves, and Krysten Ritter voicing some familiar characters. Also offering an engaging plot with some funny moments, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is brilliant.
Street Fighter
As arguably the most iconic series of fighting games ever, it was only a matter of time before a first-ever Street Fighter movie hit the big screen. Released in 1994, if you’re partial to older productions with fairly dodgy fight choreography, then Street Fighter will appeal. While it probably won’t win over everyone, particularly in the modern world, given its dated feel, for fans of actors like Jean-Claude Van Damme, it’s a must.
Five Nights at Freddy’s
Aiming to capitalize on the success of the much-loved point-and-click survival horror game,
Five Nights at Freddy’s first hit the cinemas in 2023. One of the more recent inclusions on the list, it managed to accurately depict the game as players experienced the cursed Chuck-E-Cheese for themselves in a movie format. This beloved puzzler for gamers was deemed a success by movie fans, with jump scares and spooky moments on offer throughout.
A Minecraft Movie
Another recent release from 2025, if you haven’t seen A Minecraft Movie yet, then you really should. Based on one of the biggest games of all time, it mirrors the iconic sandbox product perfectly. If you still play Minecraft or it was a go-to title during your younger days, then you’ll enjoy this Minecraft film with lots of comical value on offer in what is an amazingly accurate effort.
Mortal Kombat
Serving up blood and gore in some epic fighting scenarios, Mortal Kombat games have always been in demand. The first movie created off the back of the games’ triumphs, simply called Mortal Kombat, was another highlight. Offering a new storyline for fans to get their heads around, this martial arts fantasy masterpiece from 1995 had everything fans of the games required. From brutality to epic action, it’s perfect.
Other top movies based on video games include Werewolves Within, Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie, Resident Evil, Uncharted, Warcraft, and Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children.
