The Best TV Shows Based on Video Games
Gaming isn't just a staple for console and computers anymore - it's taken over the small screen, too. From captivating storytelling arcs to stunning visuals that rival their pixelated predecessors, the best video game TV shows of all time have managed to capture the essence of their source material beautifully, while carving out their own special place in TV history. And with the buzz building around Amazon Prime's Fallout series, it’s clear this trend isn't slowing down.
Shows like The Last Of Us have set seriously high standards, redefining what TV shows based on video games can look like. They're more than just adaptations; they transcend their original formats to create something fresh and enthralling.
If you just finished binging Fallout and you're looking for more video game shows to watch, take a look at the video game TV shows in the list below - and be sure to find your favorites and vote on them to help influence the rankings for future readers.
- 1
Arcane is a League of Legends-based TV series on Netflix that features beautifully crafted visuals and a gripping storyling that follows the lives of champions Jinx and Vi - two fan-favorite LoL characters. Set against the contrasting backdrops of Piltover and Zaun, the series masterfully combines high-stakes action, emotional depth, and subtle political intrigue, captivating both gamers and non-gamers alike with its unique storytelling and aesthetic.
- Premiered: November 6, 2021
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Fantasy
- 2
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, a Netflix animated series, takes viewers on an electrifying journey into the dystopian world of Night City. Inspired by Cyberpunk 2077, the show is set to deliver a visually striking, futuristic environment brimming with high-stakes action and morally complex characters. As "edgerunners," the protagonists navigate the neon-lit cityscape, confronting the dangers and moral dilemmas of a society consumed by technology and power struggles.
- Premiered: September 13, 2022
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Science Fiction
votes needed!NEW TO THE LIST
NEW#17Devil May Cry
- 3
The Last of Us TV series, based on the critically acclaimed hit video game, is an HBO show created by Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin. This post-apocalyptic drama offers emotional storytelling, stirring performances, and stunning visuals. The series focuses on the complex relationship between protagonists Joel and Ellie as they navigate a world ravaged by infection, fighting both monstrous creatures and the darkest aspects of human nature.
- Premiered: January 15, 2023
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Horror
- 1Castlevania33 Votes
- 2Arcane52 Votes
- 3Twisted Metal30 Votes
- 4The Cuphead Show18 Votes
- 4
Amazon Prime's latest foray into gaming x TV includes the critically acclaimed Fallout TV series, which follows the tale of a vault dweller coming to the surface in search for her father. The show's gritty nature paired with the tongue-in-cheek commentary on modern society set in a 1950s-esque vibe is what makes the series a must-watch for Fallout fans.
- Premiered: April 10, 2024
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Science Fiction
- 1Silo303 Votes
- 2Game of Thrones303 Votes
- 3The Expanse279 Votes
- 4True Detective175 Votes
- 5
Castlevania, the dark and atmospheric animated series on Netflix, brings the iconic vampire-hunting video game franchise to life. With its gritty Gothic setting, the show chronicles the intense battles between the Belmont clan and Dracula's sinister forces. Tense action sequences, intricate character relationships, and sharp dialogue propel Castlevania's engrossing storyline, making it a binge-worthy dive into a deeply rich and macabre universe.
- Premiered: July 7, 2017
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation
- 6
The Witcher, a spellbinding Netflix series, entwines viewers in its enthralling world of monsters and magic. Based on the beloved video game and book series, the show follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster-hunting "witcher", on his thrilling adventures. With its phenomenal choreographed fight scenes, complex characters, and engrossing plotlines, The Witcher captivates audiences, transporting them into a realm of enchantment and mesmerizing danger.
- Premiered: December 20, 2019
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Fantasy
- 7
The 1990s Sonic the Hedgehog TV series, featuring the talented voice of Jaleel White, captivated audiences with its fast-paced animation and iconic characters. As Sonic and friends raced to save their world from the sinister Dr. Robotnik, Jaleel White's spirited portrayal of the blue speedster kept viewers enthralled. The show remains a cherished classic, delivering thrilling adventures and a nostalgic trip back to simpler gaming days.
- Premiered: September 18, 1993
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 1Sonic Adventure (2010)87 Votes
- 2Sonic X Shadow Generations93 Votes
- 3Sonic Adventure 2106 Votes
- 4Sonic Generations84 Votes
- 8
The Twisted Metal TV series, inspired by the cult classic car combat video game, is filled with explosive action and gripping storylines. Venturing into a post-apocalyptic world, the show follows a motley crew of drivers as they engage in vehicular warfare and navigate dark humor. Boasting intense battles, unforgettable characters, and an immersive setting, the Twisted Metal series promises a binge-worthy odyssey for thrill-seeking viewers.
- Premiered: July 27, 2023
- Genres: Action,Comedy
- 9
The Cuphead Show!, an upcoming Netflix animated series, promises to charm viewers with its unique, 1930s-inspired art style and engaging storytelling. Based on the beloved run-and-gun indie game, the show follows the adventures of Cuphead and his brother, Mugman, as they navigate their vivid, perilous world. With its delightful hand-drawn animation, quirky characters, and whimsical humor, The Cuphead Show! is poised to transport fans back to the golden age of cartoons while delivering action-packed modern tales.
- Premiered: February 18, 2022
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 10
The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! was a quirky, nostalgic blend of live-action and animation that brought the iconic Nintendo game to life on TV screens. Featuring Mario and Luigi's zany adventures in the Mushroom Kingdom, the show delighted fans with its vividly colorful worlds, entertaining storylines, and memorable catchphrases. The series is a fondly remembered gem, transporting viewers back to the magical realm of their beloved Italian plumber heroes.
- Premiered: September 4, 1989
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 11
The 1990s Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog TV series delivered an adrenaline-fueled blend of action and comedy, following the iconic blue speedster as he tackled his arch-nemesis, Dr. Robotnik. With its colorful animation, zany humor, and fast-paced storytelling, the show brought Sonic's world to life, delighting fans old and new. The series remains a charming, nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who reveled in Sonic's thrilling race to save his world from evil.
- Premiered: September 6, 1993
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 12
Castlevania: Nocturne is an adult animated dark fantasy action television series that serves as a sequel to the previous Castlevania animated series on Netflix. Set in 1792 during the French Revolution, it follows the young vampire hunter Richter Belmont and his adoptive sister Maria Renard as they make allies and attempt to prevent the rise of a powerful vampire queen. The vampire queen, named Erzsebet Báthory, claims to be the reincarnation of the Egyptian goddess Sekhmet and seeks to plunge the world into eternal darkness under vampire rule.
- Premiered: September 28, 2023
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Fantasy,Horror
- 13
The 1990s' Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego TV series captivated audiences with its exciting blend of education and adventure. The show followed the clever exploits of the elusive Carmen Sandiego, the iconic globe-trotting thief. Young detectives Zack and Ivy worked tirelessly to track her down, uncovering fascinating historical and geographical facts along the journey. With its engaging animation and dynamic storytelling, the show offered viewers both thrilling action and valuable learning experiences.
- Premiered: February 5, 1994
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 14Knuckles the Echidna teaches deputy Wade Whipple the techniques of the Echidna warrior.
- Premiered: April 26, 2024
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Comedy
- 15Lara Croft confronts her traumatic past while unraveling an ancient mystery.
- Premiered: October 10, 2024
- Genres: Action,Animation
- 16
The Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? TV series took viewers on a thrilling, globe-trotting chase, blending entertainment with education as they pursued the cunning, mysterious thief. Featuring live-action gameplay and catchy musical numbers, the dynamic show encouraged young detectives to test their knowledge of geography, history, and culture while exploring new countries, landmarks, and clues. Engaging and informative, Carmen Sandiego became an icon in edutainment, making learning feel like a captivating, high-stakes adventure.
- Premiered: September 30, 1991
- Genres: Animation,Kids
- 17
Devil May Cry
Johnny Yong Bosch, Scout Taylor-Compton, Hoon LeeA professional demon hunter named Dante seeks vengeance for the death of his family.- Premiered: April 3, 2025
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation
- 18
The Earthworm Jim TV series, based on the quirky video game character, was a delightful blend of action, humor, and off-the-wall adventures. The animation showcased Jim's superpowered spacesuit journeying through bizarre worlds and battling eccentric foes. With its memorable catchphrases, zany characters, and imaginative plots, Earthworm Jim captured the original game's fun-loving spirit and proved to be an amusing, entertaining romp for both fans and newcomers alike.
- Premiered: September 9,1995
- Genres: Animation, Animated cartoon, Children's television series, Adventure film, Comedy
- 19
The 2019 Carmen Sandiego TV series reimagines the iconic thief for a new generation, focusing on her transformation from a master criminal to a resourceful and high-tech modern-day Robin Hood. With its vibrant, stylish animation and engaging story arcs, the show unveils her backstory, vivid global escapades, and the pursuit of justice. Fans and newcomers alike are captivated by this fresh take on a legendary character, combining adventure, humor, and education with a contemporary twist.
- Premiered: January 18, 2019
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Crime,Kids
- 20
The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3
Walker Boone, Tony Rosato, Tracey MooreThe Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3 captured the charm and excitement of the beloved video game, with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Toadstool navigating the diverse lands of the Mushroom Kingdom. Full of vibrantly animated escapades, clever humor, and thrilling confrontations with the dastardly Koopalings, the show transported viewers alongside their favorite heroes as they fought to thwart Bowser's nefarious schemes and save their world from chaos.
- Premiered: September 8, 1990
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 21
Based on the 1992 video game series of the same name developed by Midway Games.
Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm is a cartoon series based on the popular Mortal Kombat video game series. Produced by Threshold Entertainment and Film Roman, it aired on the USA Network's Action Extreme Team animation block for one season of thirteen episodes from September to December 1996, back-to-back with those of the Street Fighter animated series. The show serves as a combination of an alternative sequel to the first Mortal Kombat film and the events of Mortal Kombat 3.- Premiered: September 21, 1996
- Genres: Animation, Action, Animated series
- 22
Street Fighter
Jean-Claude Van Damme, Raul Julia, Ming-Na WenThe Street Fighter TV series from the '90s brought the iconic brawling video game franchise to life with action-packed encounters and intriguing storylines. Following a group of diverse, powerful fighters led by Colonel Guile, the show featured pulse-pounding battles against the evil M. Bison and the Shadowlaw organization. The dynamic visuals, memorable characters, and epic struggles for justice in the series expanded the Street Fighter universe, entertaining fans with its compelling adaptation of the classic game.
- Premiered: October 21, 1995
- Genres: Animated series
- 23
The Mega Man TV series propelled viewers into the futuristic world of the iconic blue-suited hero, adapted from Capcom's legendary video game franchise. The show skillfully blended action-packed sequences and character-driven narratives as Mega Man faced off against sinister Dr. Wily and his array of destructive robots. With its vibrant animation, engaging storylines, and classic characters, Mega Man successfully translated the game's thrilling battles and epic heroism to the small screen.
- Premiered: 1994
- Genres: Animation, Anime, Science Fiction, Family Film, Action film
- 24
DOTA: Dragon's Blood, a Netflix animated series based on the popular online game DOTA 2, catapults viewers into a mythical, war-torn realm. The series showcases the dynamic journey of Dragon Knight Davion while unfolding an engrossing tapestry of power struggles and epic battles. The combination of striking visuals and rich storytelling brings the game's intricate lore to life, immersing fans in a fantastical world filled with legendary heroes, fearsome dragons, and arcane magic.
- Premiered: March 25, 2021
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Fantasy
- 25The fate of a strange new multiverse rests in the gloved hands of the speedy Sonic the Hedgehog.
- Premiered: December 15, 2022
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 26
Based on the 1994 video game series of the same name developed by Nintendo.
Donkey and Diddy Kong share adventures with their friends.- Premiered: September 26, 1997
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Kids
- 27
Based on the 1987 video game series of the same name developed by Technōs Japan.
Double Dragon is an American animated series based on the video game franchise of the same name. It was produced by DiC Animation in association with Bohbot Entertainment and Tradewest, Inc., and ran for 26 half-hour episodes in 1993 and 1994.- Premiered: September 12, 1993
- Genres: Animation, Animated cartoon, Animated series
- 28
Based on the video game series The Legend of Zelda developed by Nintendo.
Princess Zelda and Link try to defend the kingdom of Hyrule from the evil wizard Ganon.- Premiered: September 8, 1989
- Genres: Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 1The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons11 Votes
- 2The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening25 Votes
- 3The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap25 Votes
- 4The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds26 Votes
- 29
Based on various video games that were developed by Nintendo.
Captain N: The Game Master is a American-Canadian joint-venture animated television series that aired on television from 1989 to 1991 as part of the Saturday morning cartoon lineup on NBC. The show is produced by DIC Entertainment and incorporated elements from many of the most popular video games of the time from the Japanese company Nintendo. There was also a comic book version by Valiant Comics, despite only featuring characters from games produced by Nintendo. The show is also part of an hour-long block in Season 2 with The Adventures of Super Mario Bros. 3 and with Super Mario World in Season 3 in a half-hour block.- Premiered: September 9, 1989
- Genres: Animation, Animated cartoon, Adventure film, Action
- 30
Where in Time Is Carmen Sandiego?
Lynne Thigpen, Kevin Shinick, Alaine KashianBased on the 1989 video game of the same name developed by Broderbund.
Where in Time Is Carmen Sandiego? Is an American half-hour children's television game show loosely based on the computer game of the same name created by Brøderbund Software. The program lasted two seasons on PBS, consisting of 115 episodes, which ran from October 7, 1996 to December 12, 1997, with reruns airing until October 2, 1998. The show starred Lynne Thigpen as "The Chief", Kevin Shinick as "ACME Time Pilot Squadron Leader" and "The Engine Crew" as various informants. The show replaced Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?, and was recorded entirely at Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens, New York City.- Premiered: 1996
- Genres: Children's television series, Sketch, Game show
- 31
Dragon's Lair
Arthur Burghardt, Michael Mish, Fred TravalenaBased on the 1983 video game of the same name developed by Advanced Microcomputer Systems.
Viewers help the hero in his quest to protect the kingdom of Ethelred.- Premiered: September 8, 1984
- Genres: Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 32
Based on the 1994 fighting game Super Street Fighter II Turbo developed by Capcom.
Street Fighter II V, is an anime series based on the fighting game Street Fighter II. Directed by Gisaburo Sugii, the series first aired in Japan in 1995, from April 10 to November 27, on YTV. An English adaptation of the series was produced by the dubbing group Animaze and Manga Entertainment in 1996, and was released in Australia and the USA on VHS in 1997−1998. In 1997, ADV Films produced an English dub exclusively for the UK market and was released on VHS. The Animaze/Manga dub had a DVD release on April 29, 2003 in a four disc set in North America and was then released on DVD in Australia.- Premiered: 1995
- Genres: Animation, Action/Adventure, Anime
- 33
Based on the 1980 video game series of the same name developed by Namco.
Pac-Man and his family battle Inky, Blinky, Pinky, Clyde and Sue in Pac-Land.- Premiered: September 25, 1982
- Genres: Animation,Kids
- 34
Angry Birds Toons
Based on the 2009 video game series of the same name developed by Rovio Entertainment.
Angry Birds Toons is a Finnish animated TV series based around Rovio's video game franchise of the same name. This animated series provides explanations for the rivalry between the birds and the pigs; it also relates the birds' and pigs' comedic adventures among themselves and against each other. Episodes are being released on a schedule of one per week every Sunday. There was an introductory episode called "Meet the Flock," which introduced the characters to the audience and gave most of the birds their names. None of the green pigs have been identified by name so far, but all the various types of pigs visible in the Angry Birds game have been shown. The episodes are all fairly short; so far they are all under three minutes. No dialogue is used, only facial expressions, sound effects and simple vocalizations, similar to many of the Tom & Jerry cartoons of the mid-twentieth century. This allows the cartoons to be understood by virtually all cultures worldwide without alteration or translation. As of September 2013, the Toons have been viewed more than 1 billion times since it launched in March 2013.- Premiered: 2013
- Genres: Animation, Children's television series, Family Film
- 35
Rabbids Invasion
Damien Laquet, Barbara Scaff, David GasmanBased on the 2006 video game franchise Raving Rabbids developed by Ubisoft.
A breed of rabbitlike creatures from another planet arrive and cause havoc in the human world.- Premiered: August 3, 2013
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Comedy,Kids
- 36
Based on the 2003 video game of the same name and developed by Avalanche Software.
Following the comic adventures of Tak, a jungle boy given the power of Juju.- Premiered: 2007
- Genres: Animation,Fantasy,Kids
Based on the 1996 video game series of the same name developed by NanaOn-Sha.
PaRappa the Rapper is a 2001 Japanese anime series aimed towards children in Japan that consists of 30 episodes. It features the rapping dog PaRappa and his friends in different adventures. Unlike the game, there's very little rap incorporated into the series' soundtrack. Rodney Greenblat, the original creator of PaRappa the Rapper, only designed the characters of Matt Major and Paula Fox for the show. He had nothing to do with the plot, as he had found out that it was a kids-oriented show meant to sell PaRappa merchandise. Originally, he, along with the company, were to make a teenage/young adults-oriented show meant for the target audience, which was teenagers, at the time.- Premiered: 2001
- 38
Based on the 2011 Skylander series and developed by Activision Blizzard Studios.
Heroes go on adventures and protect the vast Skylands universe from evil.- Premiered: 2016
- Genres: Adventure,Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 39
Based on the 2006 video game of the same name and developed by Xbox Game Studios and Rare.
A vibrant world of living pinata animals.- Premiered: August 26, 2006
- Genres: Animation,Fantasy,Kids
- 40
Based on the Halo video game franchise.
Master Chief, a cybernetically enhanced super-soldier, defends humanity from the Covenant.- Premiered: March 24, 2022
- Genres: Action,Science Fiction
- 1The Mandalorian98 Votes
- 2Firefly55 Votes
- 3Foundation33 Votes
- 4The Expanse43 Votes
- 41Stories set within the worlds of some of the most beloved video games.
- Premiered: December 10, 2024
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation
- 42Kazuma Kiryu throws himself into the underworld in order to protect his childhood friends.
- Premiered: October 25, 2024
- Genres: Action,Crime,Drama,Thriller
- La adorable mancha verde Om Nom se adentra en los viajes en el tiempo.
- Premiered: January 1, 2023
- Genres: Adventure
- 44
Based on the 2017 game of the same name developed by Red Candle Games.
In Taiwan, a student uncovers a school's haunting secrets.- Premiered: December 5, 2020
- Genres: Horror,Thriller
- 45
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures
Erin Mathews, Ashleigh Ball, Brian DrummondBased on the 1980 video game series of the same name developed by Namco.
Pac-Man and his friends must protect Pac-World from evil spirits trying to take over the planet.- Premiered: June 15, 2013
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Kids,Science Fiction
- 46
Based on the video game series of the same name by Capcom.
Jade Wesker is haunted by her past and fights for survival in a world overrun by infected creatures.- Premiered: July 14, 2022
- Genres: Action,Horror,Science Fiction
- 47
Maniac Mansion
Martin Short, Kathleen Robertson, Joe FlahertyBased on the 1987 video game of the same name developed by Lucasfilm Games.
Maniac Mansion was a Canadian sitcom created by Eugene Levy, which aired concurrently on YTV in Canada and The Family Channel in the United States for three seasons from September 17, 1990 to April 4, 1993. The series is very loosely based on the popular 1987 LucasArts video game of the same name. While LucasFilm served as co-producers on the series, the show thematically shares little in common with its source material.- Premiered: 1990
- Genres: Sitcom, Children's television series, Comedy, Science Fiction
- 48
Angry Birds Stella
Heljä Heikkinen, Saara Lehtonen, Rinna PaatsoBased on the 2009 video game series of the same name developed by Rovio Entertainment.
Angry Birds Stella (Toons TV, 2014) is an American animated television series based on the game of the same name, part of the Angry Birds franchise. As with the game, the series was marketed to females by using characters that have a spirit of female heroism and friendship.- Premiered: 2014
- Genres: Animation
- 49
Ark: The Animated Series is an adult animated epic science-fantasy series based on the video game Ark: Survival Evolved. It follows paleontologist Helena Walker who gets transported to a strange island filled with dinosaurs, warring tribes, and advanced technology. She teams up with allies like the warrior Thunder Comes Charging and rebel leader Meiyin Li in an effort to survive and find a way back home, while facing threats from villainous forces like the ruthless General Gaius Marcellus Nerva who wants to reshape the world.
- Premiered: March 21, 2024
- Genres: Animation,Drama,Science Fiction
- 50
Candy Crush
Mario Lopez, David Cohen, Nathan NelsonBased on the 2012 game of the same name developed by King.
Candy Crush is an hour-long show with four teams competing against each other in a massive arena. In an attempt to win up to $100,000, contestants will swing, slide, and swipe to match candies and defeat obstacles, which includes scaling a giant virtual game board. The series is produced by Pulse Creative in association with Lionsgate, King Ltd., and CBS Television Studios.- Premiered: 2017
- Genres: Game show
- 51
Based on the 2013 video game Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, while amalgamating elements and characters from several other Ubisoft franchises.
A super-soldier leads a team of rebel outcasts on risky undercover missions to survive.- Premiered: October 19, 2023
- Genres: Action,Adventure,Animation,Science Fiction
- 52
Based on the mobile game Angry Birds created by Jaakko Lisalo.
Teen birds Red, Bomb, Stella and Chuck spend the summer at camp under the guidance of Mighty Eagle.- Premiered: January 28, 2022
- Genres: Animation,Comedy,Fantasy,Kids
