Top 5 TV Shows Based on Video Games

With the recent success of the Fallout series, we thought it would be a cool idea to share our top 5 TV shows based on video games and talk about the source material that inspired them!

Fallout

The Fallout TV series brings the popular video game universe to the small screen, creating an original story that appeals to fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Set years after a nuclear apocalypse devastated America, the story begins with a brutal raid on an underground vault.

Lucy, a resident who has never seen the outside world, is forced to venture into a lawless wasteland teeming with radiation, mutants, and violent survivors to rescue her kidnapped father.

Our Review

Fallout excels at bringing the rich, immersive universe of Bethesda’s video game series to life while standing on its own as a compelling sci-fi drama. From the very first episode, the show gripped us with its intense action, intricate world-building, and fleshed-out characters. We couldn’t help but binge the entire season and then we’re left wanting more.

“And I’m telling you you’re gonna go through a whole lot worse if you stay around here. Trust me.”
– Ma June; Fallout Season 1, Episode 3

The show shines brightest in its attention to detail and respect for the source material. Gamers will revel in the numerous Easter Eggs scattered throughout the episodes, from the iconic junk decor to the appearance of recognizable robots voiced by talents like Matt Berry. These elements made watching Fallout a nostalgic experience for us, blending the familiar with the fresh.

Ella Purnell delivers a standout performance as Lucy, convincingly portraying a sheltered vault dweller thrust into a dangerous new world. Walton Goggins, known for his versatile roles, steals the show as the mutant bandit, adding depth and nuance to his character.

“You come from a world of rules, of laws. This place is different to all of that.”
– Wilzig; Fallout Season 1, Episode 2

Despite some criticism of overproduction and occasional weak CGI, the series largely overcomes these minor flaws with its engaging story and strong performances. The pacing is well-managed, ensuring that each episode adds value to the overarching plot without feeling like filler. We can’t wait for season two!

The Games

Bethesda’s Fallout games have been with us for many years. Our personal favorites and recommendations for those who want to return to the world after finishing the series are Fallout: New Vegas, Fallout 4, and Fallout Shelter.

Released in 2010, Fallout: New Vegas plunges you into the unrelenting heat of the desert, where power-hungry factions, mutated creatures, and more await. A war is brewing in this follow-up to Fallout 3, and your choices will determine the outcome of this power struggle.

Five years later, Bethesda released its ambitious open-world RPG Fallout 4. As the sole survivor of Vault 111, you navigate a post-nuclear wasteland where every second is a fight for survival. With endless choices, hundreds of locations, and dynamic factions, the fate of the Wasteland is in your hands.

If you’re more interested in building your own Vault and protecting the people from the dangers lurking outside, Fallout Shelter is for you. Manage the happiness of the residents, assign tasks, and prepare for the dangers of the Wasteland. Customize modern rooms, nurture your community, and ensure a better future, all under 2,000 feet of rock.

Arcane

Arcane is a visually stunning animated series set in the universe of League of Legends, focusing on the rivalry between the wealthy city of Piltover and the impoverished underbelly of Zaun. The introduction of “Hextech” in Piltover and a new drug called “Shimmer” in Zaun ignites tensions between the two city-states, tearing apart families and friends.

The series delves into the backstories of iconic League of Legends champions such as Vi, Jinx, Caitlyn, Jayce, Viktor, and Ekko, providing rich character development and world-building.

Our Review

Although based on a video game, Arcane stands on its own as a work of art with superb storytelling, stunning visuals, and a stellar voice cast and offers a gripping story set in a meticulously crafted steampunk fantasy world.

The series effortlessly draws viewers into its complex web of relationships and conflicts, making it a compelling watch from start to finish. Even if you’re unfamiliar with League of Legends, the show’s careful exposition and character-driven approach will have you immersed in the story.

“We’ve all had bad days. But we learn. And we stick together.“
-Vi; Season 1, Episode 1

The animation in Arcane is nothing short of stunning and sets a new standard for animated series. The attention to detail, particularly in blending 3D and 2D animation, creates a visually stunning experience that rivals even the most acclaimed anime.

One of the outstanding aspects of Arcane is its exceptional voice cast, who bring depth and nuance to their characters. Hailee Steinfeld’s portrayal of Vi is particularly noteworthy, capturing the character’s tough exterior and underlying vulnerability perfectly. The series is filled with memorable performances that elevate the already impressive storytelling.

“It’s a sad truth that those who shine brightest often burn fastest.”
– Heimerdinger; Season 1, Episode 6

At its core, Arcane is a story about relationships and the consequences of our actions. The series deftly explores themes of power, identity, and redemption, weaving them into a narrative that is both compelling and thought-provoking.

The Game

Riot Games has released several games in the League of Legends universe over the years, but the core MOBA is a team-based strategy game where you play as five players against five players. Choose from a vast array of champions, destroy enemy towers, conquer lanes, and obliterate the Nexus to claim victory.

The game is incredibly complex and can be overwhelming for new players. It’s widely known for its toxic player base, so as someone who has spent over 2,500 hours on Summoner’s Rift, the most important advice I can give you is to use the mute button.

TV Shows Based on Video Games: The Last Of Us

The Last Of Us transports viewers into a world 20 years after the collapse of modern civilization. Joel, a hardened survivor, is tasked with smuggling Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of a heavily controlled quarantine zone. What begins as a simple job turns into a harrowing journey across the U.S., forcing Joel and Ellie to rely on each other for survival.

Our Review

The Last Of Us is a masterful adaptation that brings the beloved video games to life with a fresh yet faithful approach. The series kicks off with a gripping first episode that immerses viewers in the post-apocalyptic world and sets the bar high for the rest of the season.

“Be careful who you put your faith in. The only people who can betray us are the ones we trust.”
– Maria; Season 1, Episode 6

Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Joel brings rugged dependability to the character, while Bella Ramsey’s Ellie stands out with a nuanced performance that offers depth and authenticity, promising a compelling character arc. The chemistry between Pascal and Ramsey is the emotional heart of the series, and their evolving father-daughter dynamic is both moving and heartbreaking.

What makes The Last of Us remarkable is its ability to balance intense action sequences with meditative moments that explore the complex emotions and ethical dilemmas its characters face. The series deftly shifts between tones, from heart-pounding thriller to poignant drama, keeping viewers engaged throughout.

“If you turn into a monster, is it still you inside?”
– Sam; Season 1, Episode 5

The series stays true to its video game roots, with recognizable scenes and dialogue that will delight fans of the original game. But it also confidently expands the universe, introducing new elements and characters that enrich the narrative. We are very much looking forward to Season 2 in 2025!

The Games

If you want to experience Ellie and Joel’s journey for yourself on your PC or console, we highly recommend the critically acclaimed game duology. Originally released for PlayStation 3 in 2013, the first installment of Naughty Dog’s action-adventure naturally features the same story as its TV adaptation.

The Last Of Us Part II, which sadly remains a PlayStation exclusive to this day, takes place five years after the events of the first game. Both offer unique characters, a highly emotional story, and very fun gameplay mechanics!

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a thrilling anime set in the dystopian world of Night City, where technology and body modifications reign supreme. The story follows David Martinez, a promising student whose life is turned upside down by the harsh realities of hyper-capitalism.

He soon joins a group of mercenaries, known as the Edgerunners, led by Maine and Lucy. Together, they engage in high-stakes heists and navigate the complex power dynamics between street gangs.

Our Review

The show is an exhilarating rollercoaster ride that fans and newcomers alike won’t soon forget. Studio Trigger, known for its distinctive style, has outdone itself with visually stunning animation that perfectly captures the chaotic beauty of Night City. The series dives deep into the gritty, cybernetic underworld, offering a narrative that’s both gripping and emotionally resonant.

The story is tightly woven and manages to effectively develop its characters and plot in just ten episodes. David’s journey from struggling student to seasoned mercenary is compelling, and the series explores themes of survival, ambition, and the cost of technological advancement. The characters, from the fierce Maine to the mysterious Lucy, are well-developed and relatable, each adding depth to the story.

“There’s no place like Night City if you wanna hide.”
– Lucy; Episode 7

For those unfamiliar with Cyberpunk 2077, the series remains accessible and entertaining. It does a commendable job of introducing the world and its lore without overwhelming newcomers with jargon or references. Fans of the game, however, will appreciate the familiar settings and cameos.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners successfully balances intense action with emotional storytelling, all wrapped up in stunning visuals and a killer soundtrack. Despite its short run, it leaves a lasting impression and a desire for more. We wish there was a second season!

The Game

CD Projekt Red impressed us not only with the Witcher games but also with their sci-fi action-adventure RPG Cyberpunk 2077. Similar to David in the series, you play as a mercenary fighting for survival in the unforgiving Night City.

Customize your character, take on high-stakes missions, and shape your story with every choice you make. If you want more of the setting, atmosphere, and soundtrack, the game is the way to go!

The Witcher

Well, okay, technically the show isn’t based on CD Projekt Red’s games, but on the original books by Andrzej Sapkowski, but we wanted to recommend it and include it in this blog anyway.

The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia, a lone monster hunter, as he navigates a world where humans can be as monstrous as the beasts they hunt. Fate intertwines him with a powerful sorceress and a young princess, leading to a journey across the tumultuous continent.

Our Review

For gamers and fantasy enthusiasts alike, The Witcher offers a thrilling journey through a richly imagined world. The show perfectly captures the essence of Sapkowski’s books and video games, blending elements of dark fantasy with epic adventure.

“Fear is an illness. If you catch it and leave it untreated, it can consume you.”
– Geralt; Season 2, Episode 1

The show’s episodic structure mirrors the experience of playing a video game, with each episode presenting Geralt with a new mission or challenge to overcome. Cavill’s performance adds depth to Geralt’s character, balancing his stoic demeanor with moments of vulnerability and wit.

While we have some criticisms of the show regarding Yennefer’s and Ciri’s storylines, we still find it to be a compelling and entertaining watch, thanks to its immersive world-building and Cavill’s commanding presence. While it may not appeal to everyone, fans of the genre will find much to enjoy in this dark and fantastical tale. Let’s see how the fourth season plays out now that Henry Cavill has been replaced by Liam Hemsworth.

Game recommendation: The Witcher 3

If you’ve watched the TV show without playing any of the games, you’re in for a treat! The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of our favorite RPGs and made our list of the best games of all time.

Embark on an epic quest as Geralt of Rivia and track down Ciri, the Child of Prophecy, across a war-torn, monster-infested continent. Destroy enemies, hunt exotic monsters, and upgrade your weapons and armor. Immerse yourself in horse racing, card games (warning: Gwent is addictive), and more in this masterpiece!

Check out our other blogs for more game recommendations!

Happy Gaming!