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15 Best TV Shows Based on Video Games, Ranked
Collider has published a ranked list of the best television series adapted from video games, arguing that TV adaptations have generally fared better with critics and fans than their big-screen counterparts. The article, updated 21 July 2026 by Dawson Nyffenegger, notes that while game-to-film adaptations are often dismissed as cash grabs, the small-screen versions have mostly ranged from solid to excellent, with the notable exception of Netflix's Resident Evil.
The list spans animation, anime and live action, opening with lower-ranked entries such as Sonic X (2003–2005), the Taiwanese horror series Detention (2020), the Netflix animated fantasy Dragon's Dogma (2020), and the live-action Halo (2022–2024), before presumably counting up towards higher-rated adaptations not included in this excerpt. Each entry is assessed on faithfulness to its source game, critical and fan reception, and standalone entertainment value for viewers unfamiliar with the games.
In short
- Collider ranks the 15 best TV shows adapted from video games.
- TV adaptations generally outperform video game films, article argues.
- Lower entries include Sonic X, Detention, Dragon's Dogma and Halo.
Explained simply
Video games have been adapted into films and television series for many years, with mixed results. In recent years, television versions of game franchises have generally been better received by critics and audiences than film adaptations, making TV adaptations an increasingly important format for entertainment studios.
Entertainment publication Collider has released a ranked list of television series based on video games. The list covers a range of formats—including animated programmes, anime, and live-action shows—each evaluated on its adaptation of the source game and its critical and audience reception.
Such rankings reflect the growing investment from game publishers and streaming services in adapting gaming franchises for television audiences. Examining which adaptations succeed and which do not can reveal what makes video game-based television effective.
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