Video game movies are a mixed bag. For every epic win, there’s a cringe-worthy fail that makes you question why Hollywood even bothered. Let’s take a journey through the rollercoaster world of video game adaptations, ranking the best and worst ever made.

The Best:

1. Detective Pikachu (2019)

Detective Pikachu broke the mold by delivering a video game movie that was both visually stunning and true to its source material. Ryan Reynolds’ performance as Pikachu was charming and hilarious, bringing the Pokémon world to life in a way that delighted both fans and newcomers. It’s a rare gem in the video game movie genre.

2. Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

Sonic the Hedgehog faced a rocky start with its initial character design, but after a much-needed redesign, it became a hit. The movie captured the essence of Sonic’s speedy adventures and featured a standout performance by Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. It’s proof that listening to fans can turn a potential disaster into a success.

3. Mortal Kombat (1995)

Mortal Kombat is a cult classic that embraced its over-the-top source material with gusto. The film’s fight scenes and iconic soundtrack made it a favorite among fans, despite its cheesy dialogue and special effects. It’s a nostalgic trip that remains one of the better video game adaptations.

4. Warcraft (2016)

Warcraft attempted to bring the sprawling lore of the game to the big screen. While it received mixed reviews, it was praised for its visual effects and faithful representation of the game’s universe. It’s a movie that appeals to fans of the franchise, even if it struggled to capture a broader audience.

5. Tomb Raider (2018)

The 2018 reboot of Tomb Raider, starring Alicia Vikander, was a solid adaptation of the game’s newer, grittier direction. The film focused on Lara Croft’s origins, delivering a more grounded and realistic portrayal of the iconic character. It’s a respectable entry in the video game movie genre.

The Worst:

1. Super Mario Bros. (1993)

Super Mario Bros. is infamous for all the wrong reasons. The film’s bizarre take on the beloved franchise was a disaster, featuring a dystopian setting, odd character designs, and a nonsensical plot. It’s a textbook example of how not to adapt a video game into a movie.

2. Street Fighter (1994)

Despite featuring Jean-Claude Van Damme, Street Fighter was a mess of a movie. The film’s weak plot, poor character development, and cheesy dialogue made it a laughingstock. It’s a movie that’s so bad, it’s almost good—almost.

3. Alone in the Dark (2005)

Alone in the Dark, directed by Uwe Boll, is a masterclass in bad filmmaking. The movie was critically panned for its nonsensical plot, terrible acting, and lack of connection to the game. It’s a painful watch that should be avoided at all costs.

4. Assassin’s Creed (2016)

Assassin’s Creed had potential, with a star-studded cast and a rich source material. However, the film’s convoluted plot and lack of focus on the game’s core elements led to its downfall. It’s a disappointing adaptation that failed to capture the magic of the game.

5. Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016)

The Resident Evil film series had its ups and downs, but The Final Chapter was a low point. The movie’s chaotic editing, nonsensical plot, and departure from the game’s lore left fans frustrated. It’s a disappointing end to a series that had its moments.

Video game movies are a gamble, but when they hit the mark, they can be a joy to watch. While the bad ones often outnumber the good, the best adaptations prove that with the right approach, video games can make great movies. Here’s hoping the future brings more hits and fewer misses.