Video Game Movie Adaptations Stuck in Limbo

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - January 16th 2025, 17:00 GMT+1

Video game movies stuck in limbo msn — About this gallery:

For this list, we focused on video game movies that were announced ages ago but seem to have fallen off the radar. Maybe they got quietly canceled, or maybe they just morphed into a short film for some secret showcase we missed (looking at you, "Secret Level").

Which of these games do you think actually deserves a movie adaptation? Let’s be honest – there are a few here that would be downright bizarre to see on the big screen… but hey, stranger things have happened!

Half Life — Half-Life

Gordon Freeman, the silent protagonist with a penchant for crowbars, has been waiting in the cinematic wings for years. Despite whispers and wishful thinking, a "Half-Life" movie remains as elusive as the G-Man himself. Fans have long speculated about casting – perhaps Bryan Cranston could trade his meth lab for a hazard suit? The plot would likely follow Freeman's journey through the Black Mesa Research Facility, battling alien creatures and government agents. But until Valve decides to press 'go,' this adaptation is stuck in its own resonance cascade. | © Valve

Portal

The cake might be a lie, but hopes for a "Portal" movie are very real. In 2021, producer J.J. Abrams confirmed that a film adaptation was in development at Warner Bros. Casting Chell, the game's protagonist, could be intriguing – perhaps bring Chell's original model Alésia Glidewell onto the set bring depth to the silent heroine once again? The story would undoubtedly involve mind-bending puzzles and the sinister AI, GLaDOS, whose voice could be brilliantly portrayed by someone like Tilda Swinton. However, much like navigating Aperture Science, progress has been slow, and fans are left pondering if this project will ever escape development limbo. | © Valve

METAL GEAR SOLID — Metal Gear Solid

Stealth, espionage, and a bandana-wearing protagonist – what's not to love? A "Metal Gear Solid" movie has been in the works for years, with Oscar Isaac expressing interest in playing Solid Snake. Director Jordan Vogt-Roberts is attached to the project, aiming to capture the complex narrative and intricate themes of Hideo Kojima's creation. The plot is expected to delve into Snake's mission to thwart nuclear threats posed by the titular Metal Gear. However, as of now, the film remains in development, with fans eagerly awaiting any solid updates. | © Konami

Beyond Good Evil — Beyond Good & Evil

Ubisoft's cult classic "Beyond Good & Evil" has been slated for a film adaptation, with Netflix and director Rob Letterman on board. The game follows photojournalist Jade as she uncovers a planet-wide conspiracy, blending action, adventure, and a touch of the surreal. Casting Jade could be pivotal – perhaps someone like Zoë Kravitz could embody her rebellious spirit? While the announcement sparked excitement, concrete details have been scarce, leaving fans in the dark about when or if this adaptation will see the light of day. | © Ubisoft

Dragons Lair — Dragon's Lair

The quintessential '80s arcade game "Dragon's Lair" is reportedly getting a live-action adaptation, with Ryan Reynolds attached to star as the valiant but clumsy knight, Dirk the Daring. The game is known for its animated sequences and quick-time events, making it a unique candidate for a film. The plot would likely follow Dirk's quest to rescue Princess Daphne from the evil dragon Singe. While the project has generated buzz, it remains to be seen if it will successfully navigate the treacherous development moat. | © Cinematronics

Call of Duty

With its blockbuster sales and cinematic campaigns, a "Call of Duty" movie seems like a no-brainer. Activision Blizzard has expressed interest in developing a film adaptation, aiming to create a shared cinematic universe akin to Marvel's. Casting could be wide open, with various protagonists to choose from – imagine Chris Hemsworth leading a squad through intense battle sequences. However, despite the franchise's popularity, the project has yet to advance beyond the planning stages, leaving it in a holding pattern. | © Activision

Saints Row

The "Saints Row" series, known for its over-the-top action and irreverent humor, seems tailor-made for a wild cinematic ride. In 2019, director F. Gary Gray, famed for "Straight Outta Compton," was reportedly attached to helm the project. Casting the Boss could be a fun challenge – perhaps someone like Tessa Thompson could bring the right mix of charisma and chaos? The plot would likely follow the Saints' rise to power in the fictional city of Stilwater, blending heists, humor, and a healthy dose of mayhem. However, since the initial announcement, updates have been as scarce as a law-abiding citizen in Steelport, leaving fans wondering if this adaptation will ever rev its engines. | © Deep Silver

Cropped Yakuza — Yakuza

SEGA's "Yakuza" series offers a rich narrative tapestry, ripe for a cinematic adaptation. In 2020, it was announced that a live-action film was in development, aiming to bring Kazuma Kiryu's underworld adventures to the big screen. Casting Kiryu is no small feat – perhaps Hiroyuki Sanada could embody the stoic yet compassionate gangster? The plot would likely delve into the intricate dynamics of the Japanese criminal underworld, balancing intense action with heartfelt storytelling. However, concrete details have been as elusive as a hidden side quest, leaving fans eager for more information. | © SEGA

Firewatch

Campo Santo's indie darling "Firewatch" captivated players with its atmospheric storytelling and emotional depth. In 2016, plans for a film adaptation were announced, with the game's developers collaborating on the project. Casting the solitary fire lookout, Henry, could be intriguing – perhaps someone like Paul Giamatti could capture his world-weary charm? The narrative would likely explore Henry's isolation in the Wyoming wilderness and his developing relationship with his supervisor, Delilah, conveyed through radio conversations. Despite the initial buzz, updates have been as quiet as the Shoshone National Forest at dusk, leaving fans to wonder if this adaptation will ever spark to life. | © Campo Santo

Cropped The Division — The Division

Ubisoft's "The Division" paints a grim picture of a pandemic-ravaged New York City, a setting that feels eerily prescient. A film adaptation has been in development, with Jake Gyllenhaal and Jessica Chastain attached to star, and Netflix securing distribution rights. Gyllenhaal would portray an agent of the Strategic Homeland Division, tasked with restoring order amidst chaos. The plot is expected to mirror the game's narrative, blending action with socio-political commentary. However, progress has been as slow as a Dark Zone extraction, and fans are left waiting for this mission to commence. | © Ubisoft

Splinter Cell

Tom Clancy's "Splinter Cell" series, featuring stealth operative Sam Fisher, seemed destined for a cinematic adaptation. In 2012, Tom Hardy was cast as Fisher, with Doug Liman set to direct. The plot was rumored to follow Fisher's early days in the NSA's clandestine Third Echelon. However, the project faced numerous delays and creative differences, leading to Liman's departure in 2015. Despite script rewrites and continued interest, the film has languished in development hell, with no recent updates – much like Fisher himself, it appears to have vanished without a trace. | © Ubisoft

Mega Man

Capcom's iconic blue bomber, "Mega Man," has been blasting through pixelated adversaries since the '80s, but his journey to the silver screen has been a rocky road. A live-action adaptation has been in development, with Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman set to direct, and Masi Oka producing. Initially, 20th Century Fox was on board, but after Disney's acquisition, the project found a new home at Netflix. As for casting, one can only dream: perhaps Tom Holland donning the iconic blue helmet? The plot is expected to follow our robotic hero, Mega Man, as he battles rogue robots to save humanity – a classic tale of man versus machine, with a Hollywood twist. | © Capcom

Just Cause

If ever there was a game series begging for a high-octane, explosion-laden film adaptation, it's "Just Cause." After over a decade in development limbo, the project has gained momentum with director Ángel Manuel Soto, known for "Blue Beetle," at the helm. Universal Pictures is backing the film, with Kelly McCormick and David Leitch producing through their company, 87North. Casting rumors are swirling – could we see Jason Momoa as the daring Rico Rodriguez? The plot is anticipated to mirror the game's chaos, with Rico toppling dictatorships in the most bombastic ways possible. However, as of now, the film remains in development, with fans eagerly awaiting any explosive updates. | © Square Enix

Cropped Duke Nukem — Duke Nukem

Hail to the king, baby! The "Duke Nukem" film has been stuck in development hell longer than Duke's been cracking one-liners. Back in 2018, John Cena was rumored to take on the role of the macho protagonist, but since then, news has been as elusive as a shrink ray in a boss fight. The plot would likely follow Duke saving Earth from alien invaders, all while delivering quips that would make a '90s action hero blush. But until a studio steps up, Duke's cinematic debut remains on hold. | © Gearbox Software

Cropped Gravity Rush — Gravity Rush

"Gravity Rush," the gravity-defying action-adventure game, was reported to be getting a film adaptation with Anna Mastro attached to direct. The story would presumably follow Kat, a young woman with the power to manipulate gravity, as she navigates a floating city besieged by mysterious forces. Casting suggestions? Perhaps Anya Taylor-Joy could bring Kat's ethereal charm to life. However, concrete details are as elusive as gravity itself, leaving fans floating in anticipation. | © Sony Interactive Entertainment

It Takes Two

The charming co-op adventure "It Takes Two" is reportedly being adapted into a film, with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's production company, Seven Bucks Productions, involved. The game follows a couple turned into dolls, navigating a fantastical world to mend their fractured relationship. Casting ideas? Maybe Ryan Reynolds and Emily Blunt could bring the protagonists' quirky dynamics to life. The film aims to capture the game's whimsical essence, but until production kicks into gear, fans are left playing the waiting game. | © Hazelight Studios

Sifu

"Sifu," the martial arts action game known for its intense combat and unique aging mechanic, has caught the attention of Hollywood. A film adaptation could delve into the protagonist's quest for vengeance, aging with each failure, offering a fresh take on the classic revenge narrative. Casting a skilled martial artist like Iko Uwais could bring authenticity to the role. However, as of now, no official announcements have been made, leaving fans to wonder if this cinematic fight will ever commence. | © Sloclap

Sniper Elite

The "Sniper Elite" series, renowned for its stealth mechanics and X-ray kill cams, is set to make a precision shot onto the big screen. Director Brad Peyton, known for "Rampage," is attached to helm the project, with Gary Graham co-writing the script. The narrative is expected to follow elite sniper Karl Fairburne in a tense cat-and-mouse chase through London during World War II, as he attempts to thwart a Nazi assassin targeting Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Casting Fairburne could be intriguing – perhaps someone like Michael Fassbender could embody the stoic marksman? While the project has generated buzz, it remains in development, with fans eagerly awaiting a release date. | © Rebellion Developments

Slime Rancher

"Slime Rancher," the charming game where players wrangle gelatinous creatures on a distant planet, is being adapted into a feature film. Monomi Park, the game's developer, has partnered with Story Kitchen, a production company co-founded by "John Wick" creator Derek Kolstad, to bring this whimsical world to life. The story will likely follow Beatrix LeBeau, a plucky rancher, as she embarks on a colorful adventure collecting and caring for slimes. Casting Beatrix could be delightful – perhaps someone like Hailee Steinfeld could capture her adventurous spirit? As of now, details about the film's release are as elusive as a rare Gold Slime, leaving fans eagerly anticipating more information. | © Monomi Park

Ark Survival Evolved — Ark: Survival Evolved

"Ark: Survival Evolved," the open-world survival game teeming with dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, has sparked interest for a potential film adaptation. While an animated series featuring voice talents like Vin Diesel and Russell Crowe is in the works, a live-action movie remains a tantalizing prospect. The plot could revolve around survivors stranded on a mysterious island, forced to coexist with – and sometimes battle – ancient beasts while uncovering the island's secrets. Casting rugged survivors could be exciting – imagine Chris Pratt leading a band of misfits against a T-Rex. However, as of now, no official announcements have been made, leaving this adaptation as untamed as the game's wild landscapes. | © Studio Wildcard

Streets of Rage

The classic beat 'em up game "Streets of Rage" is reportedly getting a film adaptation, with "John Wick" creator Derek Kolstad penning the script. The game follows ex-cops Axel Stone, Blaze Fielding, and Adam Hunter as they battle a crime syndicate terrorizing their city. Casting the trio could be a thrilling endeavor – perhaps Charlie Hunnam as Axel, Gina Carano as Blaze, and Idris Elba as Adam? The film aims to capture the game's gritty, neon-soaked aesthetic and relentless action sequences. While the project is in development, fans are eager to see if this adaptation can deliver a knockout punch. | © SEGA

PAC MAN — Pac-Man

The iconic pellet-chomping hero, Pac-Man, is set to navigate the maze of Hollywood in a live-action film adaptation. Wayfarer Studios and Bandai Namco Entertainment are collaborating on the project, aiming to bring the arcade classic to life. The challenge lies in crafting a compelling narrative from the simple premise of a yellow circle evading ghosts. Perhaps a "Wreck-It Ralph" approach, blending live-action with CGI, could work, with someone like Ryan Reynolds voicing Pac-Man? As of now, details are scarce, and fans are left wondering how this dot-munching adventure will translate to the silver screen. | © Bandai Namco Entertainment

Toe Jam Earl — Toe-Jam and Earl

The funky duo from Planet Funkotron is set to groove onto the big screen. Amazon Studios, in collaboration with NBA star Stephen Curry's Unanimous Media, is developing a "ToeJam & Earl" movie. The film will follow the extraterrestrial rappers as they crash-land on Earth, seeking the source of the music that shaped their culture. Casting these iconic characters could be a blast – imagine Donald Glover voicing ToeJam and Seth Rogen as Earl. With a script penned by Amos Vernon and Nunzio Randazzo, known for "Hotel Transylvania 4," this adaptation promises a nostalgic trip for fans. However, as of now, the project is still in development, with no release date announced. | © Sega

Cropped Jak and Daxter — Jak and Daxter

The dynamic duo from Naughty Dog's beloved franchise might be leaping from PlayStation consoles to the silver screen. Reports suggest that a live-action "Jak and Daxter" movie is in the works, with "Uncharted" director Ruben Fleischer at the helm. Rumors have it that Tom Holland is being considered for the role of Jak, with Chris Pratt potentially voicing the wisecracking ottsel, Daxter. The plot would likely follow their quest to unravel the mysteries of their world, blending action, adventure, and a touch of eco-magic. While this news has generated excitement, official confirmations and details remain as elusive as Precursor artifacts. | © Naughty Dog

Just Dance

Ubisoft's rhythm-based game "Just Dance" is reportedly getting its groove on for a film adaptation. Screen Gems, a division of Sony Pictures, has acquired the rights, with plans to develop a high-energy musical. The challenge lies in crafting a narrative around a game that's essentially about following on-screen dance moves. Perhaps a story centered on a dance competition, where diverse characters find unity through music and movement, could set the stage. Casting could feature a mix of talented dancers and actors – imagine Zendaya leading the ensemble. As of now, the project is in the early stages, with fans curious to see how this adaptation will step up. | © Ubisoft

Dead by Daylight

The asymmetrical horror game "Dead by Daylight" is creeping its way toward a film adaptation. Atomic Monster, the production company founded by James Wan, and Blumhouse Productions are teaming up to bring this terrifying experience to theaters. The film aims to capture the game's essence, where survivors must evade a relentless killer in various eerie settings. Casting the iconic killers and survivors will be crucial – perhaps Bill Skarsgård could embody one of the sinister antagonists. While the project has horror fans intrigued, it remains in development, with no release date announced. | © Behaviour Interactive

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Let’s face it – turning video games into movies is a bit like trying to speedrun a game blindfolded. Sure, the end goal is exciting, but the journey can get messy, complicated, and occasionally lead to something that feels like an endless loading screen. Over the years, Hollywood has been eager to adapt beloved video game franchises into blockbuster hits, but not all projects make it to the finish line. In fact, some get stuck in a purgatory of development hell, where scripts gather dust, directors drop out, and fans are left wondering if they’ll ever see their favorite games hit the big screen.

From ambitious reboots to sequels we’ve been promised for years, these video game movie adaptations are stuck in limbo, waiting for the stars (and studios) to align. Grab your popcorn – and maybe your patience – as we dive into the titles that are still pressing “continue?” but can’t seem to find their way out of pause mode.