In case you’re a huge movie buff looking to try some new form of entertainment, you might be considering gaming. As it can sometimes be difficult to pick one from such a wide array of options, it’s a good idea to start with something you are familiar with - for example, movie adaptations. With that in mind, here are some popular movies that have been transformed into video games that you can try out.
Alien
This science-fiction cult franchise that began with 1979’s Alien directed by Ridley Scott has spawned more than thirty video games, one trading card game, and tabletop miniatures. Among the many titles, Alien: Isolation stands out. Released in 2014 and available on Windows, PS3 and PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Luna, Linux, and OS X, Alien was positively reviewed by critics. It takes place 15 years after the events of the first film and follows the daughter of Ellen Ripley as she looks into her mother’s disappearance. Alien: Isolation focuses on stealth and survival horror as you explore the space station and defeat enemies.
Friday the 13th
If you’re a horror movie lover, you might also love games based on the Friday the 13th franchise. Released in 2017 for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and in 2019 for Nintendo Switch, Friday the 13th: The Game encountered some controversy due to licensing issues. While their servers were shut down in November 2020, it is still available through peer-to-peer matchmaking and the developers continue to support and maintain it. It features a semi-open world that players can explore further as well as an asymmetrical layout that offers eight playable characters: seven counselors and Jason Voorhees.
Harry Potter
Harry Potter is yet another franchise that has inspired many game versions. As a matter of fact, each film was followed by a gaming release, meaning that you can choose from eight versions that have tie-ins to the movies. Generally, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets was best received, so consider trying that one first. Moreover, there are also two Lego Harry Potter adaptations that were very well received by the critics, and these are available on PS3 and PS4, Xbox 360 and One, Wii, and Nintendo Switch as well as on Windows and macOS. For iOS and Android, there is also Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery.
Indiana Jones
Adventure lovers shouldn’t feel left out as there are plenty of options for them too based on some of the cult favorites. For instance, Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis, which was released in 1992, is still available on Stream. Quite popular in its time, it is still considered a classic, so give this point-and-click a chance. You will explore your environment and interact with characters and objects by using predetermined commands. You can also choose from three unique paths. A very interesting option for the afternoon fun.
Rounders
Maybe not actually transformed into a video game, but the gamblers’ cult movie Rounders, released in 1998, inspired many game developers to bring a related experience into the gaming world. Based around the gifted young poker player Mike who enters the thrills of the gambling world just to (spoiler alert!) leave as the ultimate winner after a series of difficulties - remember the last scene when he beats a boastful KGB by baiting him into going all-in only to defeat him with a nut straight? That was pretty amazing. What this movie - together with other casino-themed pieces like Casino Royale, or Ocean’s Eleven, to mention just a few - did was that it kept inspiring casino game developers to lift up the game experience to a higher level. Therefore, today players can find many great online casino operators that offer even movie-like poker experiences.
Spider-Man
Sure, Marvel’s Spider-Man is technically based on a comic book but this 2018 game does have plenty of tie-ins with the movie versions. For example, you will also have to face off with Vulture and Electro, which have both been featured as Peter Parker’s adversaries in different movies. Plus, Spider-Man also comes into contact with Miles Morales, who will go on to take up the mantle in 2020’s Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales (inspired by the 2018 animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse). This adaptation is praised for its narrative, characterization, and combat, and you will surely enjoy swinging from building to building.
Star Wars
When it comes to Star Wars, you have a whole lot of titles to choose from. In case you opt for the latest addition, the 2019’s Jedi: Fallen Order, you’re in for a treat. This action-adventure is set between the prequels and the original trilogy and follows Padawan Cal Kestis as he travels the galaxy trying to rebuild the Jedi Order. The game also features BD-1, a cute little droid that befriends Cal. It’s available on Windows, PS4 and PS5, Stadia, and Xbox One, and Series X/S.
If you’re new to the world of gaming and would like to ease yourself into it by playing something with a familiar plot, you can try these titles inspired by famous movies. From Friday the 13th to Star Wars, there is plenty to choose from.