Monday, April 3, 2017

The Problem With Video Game Movies



(Before I start this entry, I want to apologize for the lack of posting. I've been dealing with a bout of depression, which lead to self doubt, which lead to writer's block. I talked it out with a few friends and I feel somewhat better. Hopefully writing it out will ease the pain.

Anyways, back to your regular geeky programming.)

It seems like there are two facets of geek culture that don't really translate well into film; anime and video games. Despite some well meaning efforts, films like Warcraft, Assassin's Creed and Street Fighter never seem to click with the general public. Why?

The answer is simple: Films aren't the right genre for video game adapations.

Think about any video game you've ever played. Skyrim. The Zelda series. Final Fantasy. What do they all have in common? They take time to beat. You pour HOURS into these games; some of them have plenty of side quests and other content to keep you occupied. Not to mention the story behind some of these games-it's enough to fill novels and comics and other spinoff material. Clearly you couldn't stuff that into a two hour movie. And you'd be foolish to try.

Therefore, I propose that any live action video game adaptations be restricted to television. Imagine a Infamous series for Netflix. Or Skyrim on HBO. Those would be projects that could adapt the lore faithfully, and have enough time to develop the characters and invest hardcore gamers, as well as audiences who aren't familiar with the games. It's just a thought.

In any case, let's hope Tomb Raider is the movie to break this curse...

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