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Ever since video games became popular, Hollywood tried to exploit them for source material. It makes sense because the best video games can be thrilling, with special effects that can go hand in hand with Hollywood blockbusters. But time and time again, these adaptations fail. Of course, there are notable and welcome exceptions.
Mortal Kombat, “the latest video game adaptation to grace our screens, is a reboot of the classic game and film franchise from Warner Bros. The film premiered in theaters and on HBO Max on April 23. For just $14.99 a month, HBO Max subscribers stream every Warner Bros. release in 2021 the same day they hit theaters, plus a huge backlog of movies and shows.
Early reactions to “Mortal Kombat” have been mixed, but the debate over which video games are better than movies is unlikely to end. The two mediums may just be incompatible, but at the very least most fans can agree that video games function as standalone works of art. Even though recent movies like “Assassin’s Creed” and “Tomb Raider” haven’t stood the test of time, their video game source material has. Below, check out these seven video games that have been adapted into movies and some consoles to play on. For more gaming content, check out our list of the best gaming chairs.
“Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla”
“Assassin’s Creed,” Ubisoft’s historical fiction franchise, has delighted fans for years with its century-spanning storyline and impeccable attention to detail. The epic film adaptation starring Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard and Jeremy Irons fell short of its expectations, but the video games are still going strong. Pick up the latest entry, “Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla” before the update is released next month.
“Shadow of the Tomb Raider”
Lara Croft is one of the most well-known video game protagonists to appear in film, thanks to the iconic portrayal of Angelina Jolie. She starred in two “Tomb Raider” films in the early 2000s, both of which were firmly relegated to guilty pleasure status. An attempted reboot in the form of 2018’s ‘Tomb Raider’ met with little fanfare, but Lara Croft’s recent games have been well received. Adventure seekers would be well advised to check out ‘Shadow of the Tomb Raider’.
“Resident Evil Village”
It would be hard to dispute the claim that “Resident Evil” is the most successful movie franchise based on a video game. Paul W.S. Anderson’s zombie series has grossed over $1 billion at the worldwide box office, and a reboot slated for later this year is sure to add to that total. The latest game takes advantage of PS5 technology to avoid scares, with photorealistic graphics that have to be seen to be believed.
“Silent Hill: Dead By Daylight”
Another iconic horror game, “Silent Hill” is a Japanese franchise known for its slow burn, psychological horror, and graphics that are always ahead of their time. The same probably can’t be said for the film adaptations, which received mixed reviews, but gamers looking for a truly interactive horror experience can find a lot to like in the vast backlog of games.
“Team Sonic Racing”
“Sonic the Hedgehog” seemed destined to be a film known more for the fan reaction it inspired than for its content. After fans infamously hated the character’s initial design, Paramount delayed the movie’s release to make Sonic a little more adorable. The end result was a fun, well-loved film anchored by a delightfully campy performance from Jim Carey. A sequel is slated to hit theaters next year, but until then games like “Team Sonic Racing” offer a delightful escape to help you out.
“Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart”
“Ratchet and Clank” video games told tales of space travel, jostling anthropomorphic animals long before Disney made it cool with “Guardians of the Galaxy.” It is also one of the only video games to receive a fully animated adaptation. If you can’t remember the 2016 film, you’re not alone. Poor reviews and a lack of marketing led to the film being ignored, but the series bounced back. “Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart” is one of the most anticipated releases of the summer, so sci-fi fans should pre-order it today!
“Mortal Kombat 11”
Before you see the movie this weekend, check out this addictive episode of the iconic fighting game series. Released in 2019, “Mortal Kombat 11” received positive reviews that left the franchise primed for a new era of relevance.
PlayStation 5
The most coveted console of the past holiday season lives up to the hype in every way. You haven’t experienced the true power of a game console until you try this. It loads games at incredible speeds and the graphics are second to none. If you want to experience this summer’s biggest releases the way they were meant to be played, the PS5 is the way to go.
nintendo switch
Many of the games on this list are also available on Nintendo Switch. The Playstation 5 may be a supercomputer, but the Switch has perfected whimsical fun. You can experience all your favorite childhood characters in games that look fresh in 2021. It’s simple enough that you don’t have to think about it, but complicated enough to keep you from getting bored. The ability to play games on your TV, or use it as a portable console, maximizes your flexibility (and fun!).
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