Arcane: Multiplayer Games That Deserve Their Own TV Show

Summary

Netflix’s ‘Arcane‘ exceeded fan expectations with a gripping story and stunning visuals.
Possible adaptations for TV series include Dead by Daylight, Grounded, and Vampire Survivors.
A Way Out could bring prison break shenanigans, and Left 4 Dead offers potential to craft a unique narrative.

As a longtime gamer and storyteller at heart, I find myself captivated by the potential of these video games being adapted into TV shows or series. Each one presents a unique world with compelling characters and intriguing plots that could translate beautifully onto the small screen.

Netflix has been consistently releasing TV series adapted from popular video game franchises, such as “Castlevania”, “The Witcher”, “Tomb Raider” and even “Arcane”, based on the long-standing MOBA “League of Legends”. Fans were taken aback when they learned that the source material is a multiplayer game with minimal storyline, but what left them most astounded was the exceptional quality of the series.

Amazingly, Arcane surpassed everyone’s expectations, boasting intricate characters, a riveting plot, and stunning visuals. Now, we’re left wondering which multiplayer game might be next to receive the Arcane touch, and how it will compare given its impressive standard.

8. Grounded

A Borrowers-Like Story

For those acquainted with “The Borrower’s” or Studio Ghibli’s “Arrietty”, they are well-versed with the struggles of small beings. The movie “Grounded” expands on this concept by relocating these diminutive characters in a backyard, where they must survive against the giant flora and fauna, and what were once ordinary garden insects now pose deadly threats.

Though it places a focus on multiplayer gameplay, there are story beats that could act as the basis for a Grounded adaptation, such as the reasons why the characters were shrunk in the first place. And with giant insects as the main enemy, showrunners could keep it a light-hearted experience, or drive it straight into horror territory.

7. Dead by Daylight

If a Movie is Possible, Why Not a Series?

Blumhouse has taken on the task of transforming the hugely successful asymmetrical multiplayer horror game, Dead by Daylight, into a film, demonstrating that it could indeed translate to the big screen. If a full-length movie can be made, then it’s plausible to consider a limited television series as well.

In a game like Dead by Daylight with such a vast cast, deciding which character’s tale to spin can be challenging. However, this title might gain more from a TV series rather than a film, as it could function as an anthology, allowing for the exploration of each survivor and their unique killer’s story. Fans have glimpsed snippets of their lore through background stories and brief trailers or videos, but a full-length episode could truly bring their narratives to life.

6. Vampire Survivors

An In-Depth Exploration of the Belpaese Family’s Uprising

For several years now, hit vampire series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Vampire Diaries, and True Blood have been absent from our TV screens, creating a significant void in the entertainment industry. Even though it seems the revival of vampire-themed media might be coming to an end, there will always be enthusiastic vampire enthusiasts who are forever craving more content.

In essence, the engaging multiplayer game “Vampire Survivors” could potentially bridge this gap. Its captivating boss designs and the conflict between the Belpaese family and the malevolent Bisconte Draculo form the narrative core, culminating in a climactic showdown between the two parties.

5. A Way Out

A Compelling Prison-Break Story

A Way Out was an engaging game due to its unique split-screen cooperative mode, which allowed players to work together even when playing online, reminiscent of the classic couch co-op experience. The story follows two prisoners, Vincent and Leo, who join forces in an attempt to break out of prison. Success relies heavily on teamwork as they navigate through various scenarios, such as one prisoner distracting a guard while the other retrieves necessary items for their escape.

Translating “A Way Out” into a TV series would offer the opportunity to expand on the camaraderie between characters Vincent and Leo in their prison escapades, potentially replicating some scenes with a divided screen, reminiscent of the original game’s visual style as a tribute.

4. Left 4 Dead

The Market for Zombie Shooters Remains a Rich One

One thing that can be counted on in life is the ongoing popularity of zombie entertainment. Starting with the classic horror film “Night of the Living Dead,” and moving on to modern sensations like “The Walking Dead,” zombies remain ever-trendy. Each new film, series, or game seems only to fuel the fans’ unquenchable thirst for this genre, their interest as enduring as the shambling undead themselves.

Among multiplayer zombie games, none has garnered as much popularity and success as Left 4 Dead, a game that’s perfect for quickly diving into with friends for some fun-filled hours before stepping away again. The storyline might not be extensive, but this could serve as an exciting opportunity for screenwriters eager to contribute their own stories to the universe of the game, and for the resilient characters who find themselves amidst the chaos. Witnessing the unique zombies designed for a live-action series would undoubtedly be a delightful spectacle.

3. Vampire: the Masquerade – Bloodhunt

White Wolf’s IP Oozes Intriguing Lore

The term Bloodhunt might be slightly misleading in reference to this game, as in the lore of VtM, a bloodhunt is initiated against an individual kindred due to offenses against the masquerade, not a general fight among vampires. This game was surprisingly different from what fans of this TTRPG franchise anticipated, as they were expecting another RPG instead of a multiplayer title. Despite this unexpected twist, it has gained popularity among dedicated followers and newcomers alike, offering potential for future adaptations in the World of Darkness.

Choosing Prague as a backdrop adds an intriguing twist to the narrative, as its historical architecture lends itself beautifully to a brooding vampire tale. The narrative could revolve around a manhunt, with characters inspired by the game’s kindred, pursuing a specific kindred who must survive amidst the relentless hunt from their fellow vampires. This chase could involve government agents erecting barriers, and even elements reminiscent of the in-game red mist, which gradually constricted the playable area over time.

2. Hunt: Showdown

Wild West Shows are Sorely Lacking

As a fan myself, I must say that while there’s no shortage of western movies to indulge in, the selection of western shows is rather limited, but that could all change with Hunt: Showdown. This game deviates significantly from the traditional spaghetti western formula, and it’s these differences that make it so intriguing. Instead of collecting bounties on wanted criminals or engaging in pistol duels like in ordinary westerns, players in this game hunt down monstrous bosses (or each other, depending on the game mode).

A reworking of the concept might be more advantageous, given its potential to develop a narrative revolving around a band of rogues who persistently chase after larger and more formidable monsters. This pursuit could result in casualties within the group as they encounter a task that proves too challenging for their usual bullet-storm tactics.

1. Baldur’s Gate 3

An Immersive Plot Perfect for Binge-Watching

Baldur’s Gate 3 isn’t strictly a multiplayer game; it can certainly be played solo for an enjoyable experience. However, its design is optimized for shared play, aiming to recreate the atmosphere of a traditional Dungeons and Dragons session. In this cooperative setting, each player gets to craft their own character and take on the role of a protagonist. During battles and puzzles, players work together to secure triumph.

With its compelling narrative and complex characters, Baldur’s Gate 3 could serve as the long-anticipated Dungeons & Dragons TV series. Although an animated series was produced in the 80s, time hasn’t been kind to it. Baldur’s Gate 3 could lead the way for a fresh and updated show adapted from the tabletop RPG. A skilled showrunner is needed to bring it to life, along with the original cast reprising their roles.

2024-12-21 09:05