Top 5 Horror Video Game Adaptations to Watch This Week

As The Last of Us gears up for its second season and David F. Sandberg’s film adaptation of Until Dawn hits theaters this week, it’s clear that horror video game adaptations are having a major moment. This surge of interest extends beyond these high-profile projects, with Minecraft dominating the box office and sequels like Mortal Kombat 2 and Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 arriving later this year.

The trend doesn’t show signs of slowing down anytime soon, with Barbarian director Zach Cregger signed on to tackle Resident Evil and André Øvredal (The Last Voyage of the Demeter) set to helm Bendy and the Ink Machine for the big screen.

It’s remarkable to think how far we’ve come since the infamous 1993 Super Mario Bros. adaptation, especially in the horror genre. To celebrate this surge, we’ve compiled a list of five essential horror video game adaptations currently streaming. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, here’s where to catch these dark and thrilling films.

Detention – Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Tubi

A standout in the horror game adaptation world, Detention is based on the critically acclaimed 2017 game by Red Candle. Set in 1960s Taiwan during the White Terror period, it follows Fang Ray-shin, a student trapped in her school due to a flood. As she searches for an escape, she discovers that the school is haunted by vengeful spirits and other terrifying entities. A masterful blend of historical tension and supernatural horror, Detention is a must-watch for those who appreciate politically charged psychological horror.

Doom – Prime Video

While not a direct, faithful adaptation of the beloved video game, Doom is a fun, action-packed B-horror romp. The film sends a team of Space Marines to Mars, where they encounter mutated humans in a fight for survival. The creature designs are fantastic, the action is fast-paced, and the cast—including Dwayne Johnson, Karl Urban, and Rosamund Pike—brings plenty of energy. Though it’s more creature feature than strict video game adaptation, Doom delivers on monster carnage and fun, with a few nods to the iconic game.

Monster Hunter – Hulu

Another entry from Paul W.S. Anderson (Resident Evil), Monster Hunter is an action-heavy adaptation starring Milla Jovovich and Tony Jaa. The story follows Lt. Artemis (Jovovich) and her unit as they’re transported to a strange and hostile world after being caught in a freak sandstorm. In this land, massive, deadly monsters roam, and the soldiers must fight for survival. The film doesn’t bother with complicated mythology, focusing instead on over-the-top action sequences and breathtaking monster designs.

Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City – Starz

In Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, director Johannes Roberts delivers the most faithful adaptation of Capcom’s classic survival horror games yet. This reboot combines elements from the first two games, offering fans a visual treat with iconic scenes and characters, such as Leon Kennedy, Jill Valentine, and Albert Wesker. While it’s packed with references and fan-service, the dense plot may feel overwhelming for newcomers. Still, for dedicated fans of the series, it’s a love letter to the early days of Resident Evil.

Werewolves Within – AMC+, Kanopy, Shudder

Based on the Ubisoft game, Werewolves Within is a clever blend of murder mystery, horror, and comedy. Directed by Josh Ruben (Scare Me, Heart Eyes), it follows Forest Ranger Finn Wheeler (Sam Richardson) as he settles into the quirky town of Beaverfield. When a snowstorm traps the townsfolk inside, the residents’ tension over a pipeline construction project turns deadly, and they must uncover who among them is the brutal killer. With a mix of dark humor and suspense, Werewolves Within plays out like a violent, comedic whodunnit with a werewolf twist.

These films are perfect for anyone looking to dive deeper into the world of horror video game adaptations. From mind-bending psychological thrillers to monster-filled action, there’s something for every horror fan to enjoy.