30 Best Video Games Based on TV Shows (That Actually Don’t Suck)

Movies turned into video games are hit or miss, but when it comes to TV shows? That’s a whole different ballgame. Over the years, television has given us some of the most iconic characters, universes, and stories ever created. And game developers couldn’t resist bringing them into the digital world. From nostalgic cartoon adaptations to gritty live-action tie-ins, the result is a mix of masterpieces and disasters. Today, we’re focusing on the former: the best video games based on TV shows that fans still can’t stop talking about.

At first glance, you might think TV-inspired games would be simple cash grabs. And sure, there are plenty of those (we’re looking at you, random shovelware tie-ins). But scattered among the forgettable titles are some true gems that capture the magic of their shows while adding unique gameplay twists. Think The Simpsons: Hit & Run blending open-world mayhem with Springfield’s humor, or South Park: The Stick of Truth turning crude comedy into an RPG masterpiece.

What makes these games special is how they bridge mediums. They let you not just watch your favorite heroes—they let you become them. Whether it’s surviving in a zombie-infested world, reliving anime battles, or binge-playing a Netflix-inspired adventure, these adaptations prove that TV and gaming are a match made in heaven.

In this article, we’ll count down 30 of the best video games based on TV shows of all time, spanning console classics, Netflix tie-ins, mobile hits, and hidden gems you may have missed. So grab your controller and remote, because this list is the ultimate crossover event.

Best Video Games Based on TV Shows of All Time

Not every TV-inspired game is worth remembering. But a handful managed to capture the magic of their shows and even stand tall as classics in gaming history. Here are the absolute best of the best:

The Simpsons: Hit & Run

When people talk about the best video games based on TV shows, The Simpsons: Hit & Run almost always makes the list. Released in 2003, it combined the open-world chaos of Grand Theft Auto with the satirical humor of The Simpsons, creating a game that was both ridiculous and revolutionary for its time.

Players stepped into the shoes of Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and even Apu, driving through different districts of Springfield while completing missions that ranged from hilarious to downright bizarre. Whether you were chasing down shady black vans, racing your neighbors, or smashing Buzz Cola crates, the game constantly served up moments that felt like you were playing through actual episodes of the show.

What made Hit & Run so memorable wasn’t just its mission variety but its authenticity. The developers nailed Springfield’s look and feel—familiar landmarks like Moe’s Tavern, the Kwik-E-Mart, and the Nuclear Power Plant were fully explorable. Add to that original voice acting from the cast, and the immersion was complete.

Two decades later, fans still beg for a remake or remaster. Despite the dated graphics, the gameplay loop holds up shockingly well, proving that a licensed game doesn’t have to be a lazy cash grab. It can be clever, creative, and timeless—just like the show it’s based on.

👉 Simply put, The Simpsons: Hit & Run isn’t just a great adaptation. It’s one of the most fun, quirky, and enduring TV-based games ever made.

Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3

When fans ask for the best video games based on TV shows of all time, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi 3 almost always gets a mention. Released in 2007 for the PlayStation 2 and Wii, this fighting game took anime-to-game adaptations to another level. Where most licensed titles felt watered down. This one gave fans exactly what they dreamed of: fast-paced battles that captured the over-the-top energy of the Dragon Ball Z anime.

What made Budokai Tenkaichi 3 truly legendary was its insane character roster. With over 150 playable fighters—ranging from obvious picks like Goku and Vegeta to obscure characters like King Cold. It remains one of the largest rosters in fighting game history. Each fighter had unique movesets, transformations, and signature attacks, so no two matches ever felt the same. Whether you were unleashing a Spirit Bomb or clashing with a Final Flash, the game made you feel like you were in the middle of an anime episode.

The arenas were just as massive, letting players fight across sprawling landscapes, from Planet Namek to the World Martial Arts Tournament. The destructible environments added to the immersion, letting energy blasts shatter mountains or obliterate cities mid-battle.

Even years later, fans still organize tournaments and play it competitively, proving its lasting legacy. While newer Dragon Ball games like FighterZ are polished and technical, Budokai Tenkaichi 3 remains the ultimate fan-service game—chaotic, fun, and endlessly replayable.

👉 For many anime and fighting game fans, this is the gold standard for TV-to-game adaptations.

South Park: The Stick of Truth

Turning a crude animated sitcom into an RPG masterpiece sounds impossible. But that’s exactly what South Park: The Stick of Truth achieved in 2014. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment with Trey Parker and Matt Stone directly involved, the game captured the chaotic spirit of the show while layering it with surprisingly deep mechanics.

You play as the “new kid” in town, pulled into a live-action roleplaying war. That quickly spirals into alien abductions, government conspiracies, and fart-powered magic. The turn-based combat is simple but engaging, and the writing is pure South Park—offensive, outrageous, and hilarious.

What sets it apart as one of the best video games based on TV shows is its authenticity. The game looks exactly like an episode of South Park, complete with original voice actors, inside jokes, and absurd quests. It doesn’t just reference the show—it is the show, in playable form.

Even a decade later, The Stick of Truth stands tall as proof that licensed games can deliver quality when handled with care and respect for the source material.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time

Arcades in the ’90s were dominated by beat ’em ups, but Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991) stood above the rest. Based on the beloved cartoon, this game gave players the chance to step into the shells of Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael in a four-player co-op brawler that became an instant classic.

The gameplay was straightforward—move right, punch Foot Clan ninjas, repeat—but the charm was undeniable. From the colorful pixel art to the catchy soundtrack, every detail screamed TMNT. Time-travel stages kept things fresh, throwing players into prehistoric dino levels one moment and futuristic hoverboard battles the next.

On the SNES, the home version cemented its reputation as one of the greatest couch co-op experiences of its era. It was the kind of game that brought friends together for hours of button-mashing fun, proving that sometimes simplicity is the key to longevity.

Today, it’s remembered as one of the best TV-to-game adaptations ever made, and its spirit lives on in modern titles like Shredder’s Revenge.

Read Also: 30 Best Video Games Based on Movies(Ranked All-Time Classics)

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (Xbox)

Most people don’t expect much from a TV tie-in. But Buffy the Vampire Slayer on the original Xbox (2002) surprised everyone. Set during the show’s third season, it plays like an interactive lost episode where players step into Buffy’s shoes to stake vampires, fight demons, and save Sunnydale from yet another apocalypse.

What made the game stand out was its combat system. Unlike clunky tie-ins of the era, Buffy’s moves were fluid and satisfying. Punches, kicks, slams, and stylish staking finishers gave combat real weight. Environments were interactive too—you could throw enemies into sunlight, break objects, or use improvised weapons to take down monsters.

The presentation was equally impressive. Many cast members reprised their roles, and the writing carried the same mix of wit and sarcasm fans loved from the show. The dark, atmospheric visuals captured the gothic horror vibe without losing the quirky charm.

While it didn’t reach blockbuster sales, the game developed a cult following. Fans still call it one of the most faithful TV adaptations of its time—proof that, with the right developers, even niche shows could produce excellent games.

Best Games Based on Series on Netflix

Netflix hasn’t just been dominating the streaming world—it’s been dipping its toes into gaming as well. Some adaptations have been surprisingly good, while others… let’s just say they felt like filler between binge sessions. But among them, a few stand out as genuinely fun experiences.

Stranger Things 3: The Game

When Netflix’s Stranger Things became a cultural juggernaut, it was only a matter of time before a game followed. Stranger Things 3: The Game (2019) was a pixel-art beat ’em up released alongside the show’s third season. It allowed players to control familiar characters like Eleven, Mike, and Hopper while battling through Hawkins in retro-inspired style.

The game combined exploration with simple combat and puzzle-solving. Each character had unique abilities—Eleven’s telekinesis could move objects or blast enemies, while Hopper’s fists packed a heavy punch. The 16-bit visuals added a nostalgic layer, appealing to fans who grew up in the same ’80s era that inspired the show.

While it wasn’t revolutionary, Stranger Things 3: The Game stood out for its charm. It felt like a companion piece to the series, letting fans dive deeper into Hawkins while waiting for the next season.

The Witcher (Netflix Tie-In)

Here’s where things get interesting. Technically, The Witcher was a book series long before it became a game or a Netflix hit. But the Netflix show boosted the franchise’s popularity so much that CD Projekt Red capitalized with special content. And re-releases timed with the series’ success.

For many newcomers, Henry Cavill’s Geralt was their first exposure to the character, and that led them straight into The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Expansions like Blood and Wine saw renewed attention, and cross-promotion blurred the line between the Netflix series and the gaming universe.

It may not be a standalone “Netflix game”. But the synergy between the show and CDPR’s masterpiece made The Witcher one of the strongest TV-to-game crossovers of recent years. Fans of the Netflix series found themselves sucked into hundreds of hours of monster-hunting, proving how powerful a streaming tie-in can be.

Narcos: Rise of the Cartels

Netflix’s Narcos was gritty, violent, and wildly addictive And Narcos: Rise of the Cartels (2019) aimed to capture that intensity in game form. Developed as a tactical turn-based strategy title, it put players on either side of the Colombian drug war: DEA agents or the Medellín Cartel.

The game’s standout feature was its use of characters and storylines straight from the show. Cinematic cutscenes tied into actual plotlines, while familiar faces like El Patrón (Pablo Escobar) played central roles. The gameplay, reminiscent of XCOM, offered squad-based combat where positioning and planning were everything.

While it didn’t hit AAA levels of polish, Rise of the Cartels earned praise for staying true to the show’s tone. It was brutal, tense, and grounded, appealing to fans who wanted more than just a generic tie-in. For a Netflix adaptation, it was one of the better attempts at blending storytelling with gameplay.

Cobra Kai: The Karate Kid Saga Continues

When Cobra Kai reignited the Karate Kid legacy on Netflix, a video game adaptation wasn’t far behind. Cobra Kai: The Karate Kid Saga Continues (2020) landed on consoles and PC as a side-scrolling beat ’em up. That tapped directly into the series’ mix of nostalgia and new-age martial arts drama. Therefore, I’d say that it’s definitely one of the best Video games based on TV shows.

Players could choose between the Miyagi-Do and Cobra Kai dojos, with each path offering a different storyline and perspective. The roster included fan favorites like Johnny Lawrence, Daniel LaRusso, Miguel, and Hawk, all equipped with flashy combos and special moves that mirrored their on-screen fighting styles.

What made the game enjoyable was its blend of retro design and modern touches. It played like a classic arcade brawler but added RPG-like upgrades, branching storylines, and voiceovers from the show’s cast. While critics noted it wasn’t the most polished fighter, fans of the series appreciated how faithfully it captured Cobra Kai’s underdog energy.

For anyone who grew up with The Karate Kid and fell in love with the Netflix revival, this game was a satisfying (and surprisingly fun) extension of the dojo wars.

Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics

Jim Henson’s The Dark Crystal has always been a cult classic. So when Netflix revived it with Age of Resistance, a tactical RPG adaptation soon followed. Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics (2020) translated the fantasy world of Thra into grid-based strategy combat reminiscent of Final Fantasy Tactics.

Players commanded familiar characters like Rian, Brea, and Deet, leading them across battlefields filled with Skeksis, Gelflings, and all sorts of creatures pulled straight from the show. With over 50 unique battles and customizable units, the game offered depth and replayability for fans of the genre.

While it didn’t achieve blockbuster status, it excelled in faithfulness to the source material. The art direction, lore, and narrative captured the spirit of the Netflix series, making it a must-play for Dark Crystal devotees. Hardcore tactical fans also appreciated its layered systems, even if the difficulty curve was steep.

Though the show itself was sadly canceled too soon, the game ensured that Thra lived on in another medium—giving fans a chance to fight for resistance one last time.

Read Also: Why Minecraft is So Popular? The Secret Behind Its Timeless Fun

Mobile Games Based on TV Shows

While console and PC adaptations often grab the headlines, mobile games based on TV shows have carved out their own niche. From casual city builders to competitive brawlers, these games bring beloved characters to your pocket. Here are some of the best.

The Simpsons: Tapped Out

If you’ve ever wondered how Springfield would look after one of Homer’s accidents, The Simpsons: Tapped Out has the answer—and it’s not pretty. Released in 2012 for iOS and Android, this mobile hit begins with Homer blowing up the entire town. Your job? Rebuild Springfield piece by piece while unlocking beloved characters and creating a custom version of the iconic city.

At its core, Tapped Out is a city-builder. Players construct buildings like Moe’s Tavern, the Kwik-E-Mart, and Springfield Elementary while assigning tasks to characters. Watching Homer slack off at the nuclear plant or sending Bart to skateboard around town never gets old. The humor comes straight from the show’s writers, giving the game that authentic Simpsons feel. It’s not just about tapping screens—it’s about reliving the show’s best gags in interactive form.

What makes Tapped Out stand out is its longevity. While most mobile tie-ins fade within a year, this game has thrived for over a decade. EA continuously adds seasonal events, holiday specials, and storylines—meaning Springfield is always growing. Fans log in during Halloween for Treehouse of Horror events or Christmas for absurd holiday quests.

Though it’s free-to-play with microtransactions, it never feels like a cheap cash grab. Instead, it’s a living, breathing Simpsons world that keeps evolving. For many fans, it’s the closest thing to starring in an episode of the show.

👉 Simply put, The Simpsons: Tapped Out isn’t just a mobile tie-in—it’s one of the best video games based on TV shows, period, and a rare mobile title that has stood the test of time.

Family Guy: The Quest for Stuff

If The Simpsons: Tapped Out is Springfield in your pocket, Family Guy: The Quest for Stuff is Quahog with a crude twist. Released in 2014, this city-builder game begins with yet another Peter Griffin disaster—destroying the entire town during a brawl with the Giant Chicken. From there, it’s up to players to rebuild Quahog while unlocking characters and storylines along the way.

Gameplay mirrors Tapped Out, but with the irreverent, edgy humor that defines Family Guy. Sending Stewie on time-travel missions, watching Quagmire get into awkward scenarios, or unlocking Peter’s ridiculous costumes (like pirate, clown, or superhero) keeps the gameplay fresh and hilarious. The writing captures Seth MacFarlane’s over-the-top comedy, with plenty of references to episodes and pop culture.

What keeps players engaged is the constant flow of themed events. Quahog regularly celebrates holidays, crossovers, and bizarre one-offs, like when Star Trek characters or superheroes randomly appear. These limited-time stories make the game feel alive and connected to the show’s zaniness.

Critics often point out that it’s a clone of Tapped Out, but fans don’t mind. For anyone who loves Family Guy’s brand of absurdity, it’s a faithful and fun adaptation that doubles as a playable “greatest hits” of the show.

13. Power Rangers: Legacy Wars

For kids of the ’90s (and their kids today), Power Rangers: Legacy Wars delivered a nostalgia punch straight to the jaw. Released in 2017, this mobile fighting game united Rangers and villains from nearly every generation of the long-running franchise. Whether you wanted to morph into the original Mighty Morphin’ team or fight as newer heroes from Dino Charge or Samurai, the roster was stacked.

The game’s core was real-time PvP combat. Players assembled teams of Rangers and villains, using special moves and combos to outwit opponents. It wasn’t just button-mashing—timing, strategy, and energy management played a role in securing victories. With flashy animations, morphing sequences, and iconic finishers, it felt like stepping into a live-action episode.

What made Legacy Wars shine was its competitive scene. The game grew beyond casual play into an esports title. And hosting tournaments and gaining recognition as one of the best mobile fighters. Its cross-generational roster also served as a love letter to Power Rangers history. Letting fans stage dream matchups that never happened on TV.

It’s rare for a TV tie-in to achieve this level of polish and longevity, but Legacy Wars proved that mobile games can carry the same hype as console fighters.

Game of Thrones: Conquest

In 2017, at the height of HBO’s Game of Thrones mania. Warner Bros. released Game of Thrones: Conquest, a mobile strategy game that let players step into Westeros. As a lord vying for power, you built your kingdom, recruited armies, and formed alliances. Or betrayed them—to claim the Iron Throne.

The gameplay revolved around resource management, base building, and large-scale battles. True to the show’s spirit, political intrigue and shifting alliances mattered just as much as raw strength. One day, your ally might help you defend King’s Landing; the next, they might backstab you for control of the North.

While some criticized its aggressive monetization, fans praised its immersive world-building. Familiar characters appeared throughout, and events tied into the show’s biggest moments. Seeing your banner fly over Westeros carried a certain thrill, even if it was mostly virtual.

Game of Thrones: Conquest captured what made the series special: unpredictability, betrayal, and the fight for power. It may not have been perfect, but for fans, it was a way to live the fantasy of ruling Westeros—even if you got backstabbed five minutes later.

Rick and Morty: Pocket Mortys

Leave it to Rick and Morty to parody Pokémon and actually make it work. Pocket Mortys (2016) takes the familiar monster-collecting formula and replaces Pikachu with… well, Morty. Lots of Mortys. Players travel through dimensions collecting bizarre variants like Mustache Morty, Hammerhead Morty, and even Cronenberg Morty. Then battle them in turn-based combat.

What makes the game shine is its faithful humor. Every interaction drips with the show’s cynical wit, from Rick’s dismissive one-liners to the absurd scenarios Mortys find themselves in. It’s a parody, but it also plays like a fully functional RPG, with leveling systems, type advantages, and trainer battles.

Beyond the humor, the game captured fans with its addictive collecting loop. Much like Pokémon, the urge to “catch them all” kept players hooked. Add in regular updates, new Mortys, and multiplayer duels, and it became more than just a gimmick—it became a cult hit.

For Rick and Morty fans, Pocket Mortys was more than a joke; it was proof that the series’ chaotic energy could translate perfectly into a game format.

Read Also: 20 Best Soulslike Games to Play in 2025

Cartoon & Anime Adaptations That Became Legendary

When it comes to TV-inspired games, anime and cartoons have delivered some of the most beloved titles ever made. These adaptations didn’t just cash in on a popular brand—they became legendary experiences in their own right.

Dragon Ball FighterZ

In 2018, Arc System Works unleashed Dragon Ball FighterZ, and anime fighting games would never be the same again. Unlike earlier DBZ brawlers, this one delivered high-speed, competitive 3v3 combat that rivaled even Street Fighter and Marvel vs. Capcom.

The cel-shaded art style perfectly mirrored the anime, making battles feel like they were ripped straight from the screen. Kamehamehas, Final Flashes, and transformations all came with dramatic flair, while tag-team mechanics encouraged strategy and combos.

Critics and fans alike hailed it as one of the best anime-to-game adaptations ever, not just for its faithfulness but for its depth. It became a staple in the competitive fighting scene, with tournaments worldwide.

More than just a licensed fighter, Dragon Ball FighterZ proved that anime games could be both authentic and technically brilliant.

Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4

Released in 2016, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 was the culmination of CyberConnect2’s long-running series, and what a finale it was. Covering the climactic end of Naruto’s journey. It offered fans a playable retelling of some of the anime’s most iconic battles.

The visuals were stunning, with cinematic cutscenes seamlessly blending into gameplay. Boss fights felt larger-than-life, recreating moments like Naruto and Sasuke’s final duel with jaw-dropping spectacle.

What made it legendary was its fan service and attention to detail. Every jutsu, every combo, every costume was pulled from the anime with precision. The roster was massive, letting players stage dream matchups across the entire Naruto timeline. All these things make this game one of the best Video games based on TV shows

For many fans, this wasn’t just a game—it was the definitive way to experience Naruto’s finale.

Attack on Titan 2

When Attack on Titan 2 dropped in 2018, fans finally got a game that captured the anime’s terrifying scale. Players joined the Survey Corps, swinging through cities and forests with ODM (Omni-Directional Mobility) gear to slash down towering Titans.

The sense of speed and verticality was unmatched. Grappling onto rooftops, zipping around a Titan’s neck, and executing the killing blow delivered pure adrenaline. Add in RPG elements like customizable characters, skill upgrades, and squad management, and it became much more than just an action game.

The story mode let players relive the anime’s first two seasons while weaving in original side content. For fans, it was a way to not just watch Eren, Mikasa, and Armin fight Titans, but to fight alongside them.

Few anime games have captured their source material this well, making Attack on Titan 2 an unforgettable experience.

Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth

Most Avatar games came and went with little fanfare. But The Burning Earth (2007) on Xbox 360, PS2, and Wii earned a strange kind of legend. On one hand, it was a simple action-adventure title that loosely followed the show’s second season. On the other, it became infamous for handing players all 1000 Xbox achievements in minutes—making it the easiest Gamerscore boost ever.

Despite the joke, the game had charm. Players controlled Aang, Katara, Sokka, and Toph, each with bending abilities that matched the show. Levels recreated Fire Nation battles, swamp adventures, and Ba Sing Se encounters.

It wasn’t groundbreaking, but for fans, it scratched the itch of bending powers in game form. And thanks to the achievement meme, it’s oddly remembered as one of the most “legendary” TV tie-ins ever.

One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4

One Piece has seen countless game adaptations, but Pirate Warriors 4 (2020) is easily one of the most beloved. Developed by Omega Force, it blended the over-the-top anime battles with the Dynasty Warriors formula. Letting Luffy and crew mow down thousands of enemies in chaotic, flashy combat.

The game spanned major arcs like Alabasta, Marineford, and Dressrosa, with a roster packed full of Straw Hats and villains. Each character had unique movesets that stayed true to the anime, from Zoro’s sword techniques to Luffy’s Gear Fourth transformations.

While some criticized repetitive gameplay, fans adored its sheer scale and faithful adaptation of One Piece’s epic moments. For anyone wanting to relive the anime’s wildest battles, Pirate Warriors 4 was a dream come true.

Hidden Gems & Underrated Best Video Games Based TV Shows

Not every TV-inspired game became a blockbuster hit. Some quietly slipped under the radar, only to earn cult followings years later. These hidden gems may not have topped sales charts, but they still stand out as unique adaptations worth remembering.

The X-Files: Resist or Serve

Released in 2004 for PlayStation 2, The X-Files: Resist or Serve played like a lost season of the cult-favorite series. Structured as a survival-horror game, it put players in the shoes of Mulder and Scully as they investigated supernatural mysteries across three interconnected episodes.

Clearly inspired by Resident Evil, it featured fixed camera angles, puzzle-solving, and tense combat against both human and paranormal enemies. While critics noted its clunky controls, fans appreciated its faithfulness to the show’s atmosphere—right down to the eerie soundtrack and dialogue that captured Mulder’s skepticism and Scully’s rationality.

Though it didn’t gain mainstream attention, it’s now remembered fondly by fans as the closest thing to playing an actual season of The X-Files. Hence, it’s in our list of one of the best Video games based on TV shows.

Law & Order: Legacies

When you think of video game adaptations, Law & Order probably isn’t the first title that comes to mind. But in 2011, Telltale Games released Law & Order: Legacies, an episodic adventure game that combined courtroom drama with investigative gameplay.

Players solved crimes, gathered evidence, and then argued cases in court—mirroring the show’s formula. The branching choices and moral dilemmas gave players the chance to shape outcomes, a hallmark of Telltale’s narrative-driven style.

It didn’t make waves commercially, but for fans of the series, it was a treat to step into the shoes of detectives and prosecutors. It proved that even procedural dramas could translate into engaging gameplay when handled correctly.

Lost: Via Domus

Based on ABC’s hit series Lost, this 2008 game for Xbox 360, PS3, and PC let players experience the mysterious island from the perspective of a brand-new character, Elliott Maslow. The story intertwined with events from the show, allowing players to cross paths with Jack, Locke, Sawyer, and other survivors.

Gameplay mixed exploration, puzzle-solving, and survival elements. Players navigated the jungle, entered the hatch, and even encountered the Smoke Monster. While critics knocked it for being short, fans appreciated its world-building and authenticity, with voice actors and settings drawn directly from the series.

It may not have been a masterpiece, but for fans of Lost, it felt like discovering a new episode hidden between seasons.

Star Trek Online

MMOs aren’t easy to pull off, but Star Trek Online (2010) managed to keep Trekkies engaged for years. Set in the Star Trek universe, it gave players the chance to captain their own starships, explore galaxies, and engage in space battles—all while interacting with iconic races and storylines.

The game featured regular expansions, bringing in storylines inspired by classic series like The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine. Its mix of starship combat and on-foot missions captured the exploratory spirit of Star Trek.

Though it never reached World of Warcraft levels of popularity, it has maintained a loyal fanbase, proving that Star Trek could thrive in an MMO format.

Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock

The Doctor’s adventures are tailor-made for gaming, and Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock (2012) gave fans a taste of that. Starring Matt Smith as the Eleventh Doctor and Alex Kingston as River Song, the game blended platforming with puzzle-solving across time-bending levels.

While the gameplay was rough around the edges, the voice acting, writing, and authenticity carried it. Daleks, Cybermen, and Silurians all made appearances, and the time-manipulation mechanics added a fitting twist.

It wasn’t a huge hit, but for Whovians, it delivered the joy of stepping into the TARDIS and battling classic villains firsthand.

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The Future of TV-to-Game Adaptations

As TV shows continue to dominate pop culture, game developers are finding new ways to extend those worlds beyond the screen. Streaming services like Netflix are investing heavily in gaming, and several adaptations are already making waves—or stirring hype—for the future.

Squid Game (Netflix Project)

Squid Game was a global phenomenon, so it’s no surprise that Netflix is working on a game adaptation. While details remain scarce, reports suggest a mix of survival challenges, multiplayer modes, and deadly mini-games inspired by the show’s iconic trials.

If done right, this could become the next big battle royale experience. But if handled poorly, it risks being just another gimmick. Fans are cautiously optimistic, eager to see if the game can capture the tension and morality of the series.

Stranger Things VR

Beyond its pixel-art beat ’em up, Stranger Things is getting a full VR horror experience. Stranger Things VR lets players step into the shoes of Vecna, exploring the Upside Down and invading the minds of Hawkins’ residents.

The immersive format fits the franchise perfectly, blending psychological horror with supernatural powers. Scheduled for release on platforms like Meta Quest, it’s shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Netflix game tie-ins yet.

Arcane (League of Legends Universe)

Netflix’s Arcane may be based on a video game (League of Legends), but it’s also paving the way for a reverse adaptation: turning the animated show into its own game. Riot Games has teased spin-offs featuring Arcane characters like Jinx, Vi, and Caitlyn in new adventures outside of the MOBA.

Given the show’s massive success, an Arcane-focused game could merge storytelling depth with League’s stylish action—making it one of the most promising TV-to-game projects on the horizon.

The Last of Us (Show/Game Synergy)

Here’s a unique case: The Last of Us was already a game before HBO’s adaptation became one of the best-reviewed shows of 2023. But the synergy worked both ways. The show brought in millions of new players. While the game re-releases (The Last of Us Part I remake) saw a massive sales boost.

This two-way street proves that the future of adaptations may not just be TV → game, but game → TV → game, creating a loop where each format fuels the other. Expect more franchises to follow this model.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Expansion

After the success of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners on Netflix, CD Projekt Red released crossover content for Cyberpunk 2077, including weapons and missions inspired by the anime. Fans now speculate about a full Edgerunners spin-off game, which could explore Night City from new perspectives.

It highlights the trend of cross-media storytelling, where shows and games feed into each other to create bigger, richer universes. If realized, an Edgerunners game could be the next step in blending anime and gaming.

Conclusion

From Springfield to Westeros, from anime arenas to the Upside Down. TV-inspired video games have taken us on some unforgettable journeys. While many adaptations in the past were little more than lazy cash grabs. The 30 games on this list prove that when developers put in the effort, magic happens.

What makes these titles so special is their ability to capture the essence of the shows we love while adding unique gameplay experiences. Whether it’s the chaotic freedom of The Simpsons: Hit & Run. The competitive brilliance of Dragon Ball FighterZ. Or the nostalgic fun of Pocket Mortys, these games remind us that the line between TV and gaming is blurrier than ever.

With Netflix and other streaming giants doubling down on gaming, the future looks even more exciting. We’re not just watching stories unfold on screen anymore—we’re stepping into them, shaping them, and living them in ways TV alone can’t provide.

So the next time you ask yourself, what are the best video games based on TV shows, this list should give you more than enough to start your binge-gaming session. Just don’t blame us if you forget to actually finish the series you were watching.

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