Do you want to feel like you’re watching a video game but with real people? Here are the top 30 movies to satisfy your gamer side on movie night.
#1
Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit - 2001
The Lord of the Rings follows Frodo through Middle-earth to destroy a magic ring his uncle Bilbo acquired on his adventures. During his travels, Frodo must keep the ring from falling into the hands of villainous pursuers, of which there is no shortage. The Hobbit, a prequel to this extraordinary franchise, tells the adventures of Bilbo and how the powerful, captivating ring came into his possession. Based on J. R. R. Token’s critically acclaimed novels, you are in for tales of epic adventure, battle, and friendship.
Are you a gamer who seeks epic fantasy tales in rich worlds built with intricate detail? Are you drawn to the hero's journey and admire adventure? Then, check out the stunning landscapes of Middle-earth in LoTR and The Hobbit.
#2
The Matrix - 1999
The Matrix (1999) Official Trailer #1 - Sci-Fi Action Movie
The Matrix is a virtual reality created by sentient machines to imprison the human race. War rages between the sentials and those who have unplugged themselves from the system. In this Battle for free will, a determined team frees Neo, who they believe is The One—a man with unique abilities who can save the human race.
Do you love futuristic settings with endless expert martial arts choreography? How about immersive technology that blurs the lines between digital and real? Then, this film's virtual reality realm will have you reminiscing about gaming culture every step of the way.
#3
Tron: Legacy - 1982 & 2010
TRON: LEGACY Official Trailer
When the brilliant computer engineer Flynn discovers an executive at his company stole his work, he sets out to hack into the system and get it back. Before he can, he’s zapped into the digital world, facing off against the oppressive Master Control Program. With the help of the Tron system, Flynn rebels against the MCP to free himself and the programs oppressed by the master. In the 2010 release, it’s years later, Flynn disappears again, but this time, he leaves a son behind to follow in his footsteps.
Have you ever owned an abacus or jumped up and down at '80s nostalgia? This classic is great for retro gamers who appreciate ground-breaking visual effects and imaginative digital worlds. If you want to skip the ‘80s, explore the visually stunning 2010 release, complete with neon light jets on the dark backdrop of the grid. This sequel is more than fantastic and innovative camera angles; it is a modern spin on an old favorite.
#4
John Wick - 2014
John Wick Official Trailer #1 (2014) - Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe Movie HD
Relentless and legendary assassin John Wick retires from a life of violence for love. In deep mourning after his wife's death, a cold-blooded mobster kills the puppy she gave him and takes his beloved 1969 Ford Mustang. John seeks vengeance for his late wife, stopping at nothing until he's satisfied the rage within.
Are you the gamer who keeps track of bullets fired? Is your go-to game one of assassins, secret societies, and codes of honor? Then strap in for some John Wick adrenaline as he fires endless bullets with accuracy and precision, after which he grabs a knife or just uses his hands.
#5
Free Guy - 2021
Free Guy | Official Trailer | 20th Century Studios
The world can't stop talking about blue-shirt Guy, an NPC who starts wreaking havoc inside the game Free City. One day, Guy sees what he wants, begins to write his own story, and even learns to fall in love. This lighthearted flick explores AI in a new and hilarious way.
Free Guy is a fun film packed with video game culture and its tropes. If you like comedies, Easter Eggs, and artificial intelligence, then Guy is your Guy. And as a nice touch, the film uses real-life streamers as Free City players!
#6
The Hunger Games - 2012
The Hunger Games (2012 Movie) - Official Theatrical Trailer - Jennifer Lawrence & Liam Hemsworth
In this dystopian futuristic reality, Katniss Everdeen is forced into a televised competition where she must fight 23 other children to the death. In the advanced tech arena of the Games, oppressive control fuels Katniss' anger as she becomes the face of hope and rebellion for all of Panem.
Are you a gamer of strategy, survival, and competition? Or do you enjoy intense gameplay and dystopian futures? Either way, Katniss, the girl on fire, will ignite your desires.
#7
Inception - 2010
Inception (2010) Official Trailer #1 - Christopher Nolan Movie HD
Cobb dominates the corporate espionage world by entering people’s dreams to steal their subconscious secrets. His skills cost him what he loves, but he comes across an opportunity to get it all back. Only this time, he’s not stealing; he’s planting an idea in a CEO’s mind—a dangerous and impossible crime.
Gamers who enjoy complex, in-depth storylines with mind-bending plots will appreciate this film. Inception is intellectually stimulating, visually captivating, and innovative.
#8
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider - 2001
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) Trailer #1 | Movieclips Classic Trailers
Based on the legendary, interactive video game series Tomb Raider, this film follows Lara Croft, a determined, wealthy, and intelligent archeologist. On a fearless quest to destroy a relic with insurmountable power, she must solve ancient mysteries while battling the devious Illuminati, who seek the relic’s power for themselves.
If you love iconic video game characters, nostalgia, and adventurous action, you’ll love this favorite character brought to life on the big screen. Come see the world through a grain of sand.
#9
Escape Room - 2019
ESCAPE ROOM - Official Trailer (HD)
After receiving an anonymous invitation to an escape room, six strangers compete to solve a series of puzzles for the chance to win $10,000. What they think is a fun way to make some fast cash quickly becomes horrifying as the rooms turn from puzzles into sadistic traps. Do you think you have what it takes to escape?
Calling all strategy gurus and seekers of intricate puzzles. Do you enjoy teamwork and horror suspense? Escape Room offers everything and more in this fun and immersive mystery horror.
#10
Back to the Future - 1985
Back To The Future (1985) Theatrical Trailer - Michael J. Fox Movie HD
In this hilarious 1980s sci-fi classic, Marty and Doc accidentally transport themselves back to the 1950s when their experiment goes wonky. Marty runs into his parents before they fall in love, inadvertently threatening to alter the timeline and erasing himself from the picture. He must make his parents fall in love, get back to 1985 in a time-traveling DeLorean, and save Doc.
This classic trilogy has influenced pop culture for decades. These films are perfect for any gamer who likes time travel storylines, 80’s nostalgia, and adventure. Buckle up and press play because where we’re going, we don’t need roads.
#11
Blade - 1998
Blade Official Trailer #1 - (1998) HD
Blade is out to rid the world of technologically advanced vampires to avenge his mother’s death The vampires need his special blood to summon an evil god with one plan: eliminate the human race. But Blade is more than your average hunter. If you love martial arts choreography in supernatural settings and haven’t seen this franchise, “You better wake up,” and press play.
If vampire lore is your jam, look no further. Known for stylish action and a dark, gritty atmosphere, this movie is perfect for gamers who enjoy dystopian and supernatural themes. Oh, and Marvel is rebooting this classic, so get ready for the cinematic journey to continue!
#12
Dredd - 2012
Dredd 3D Official Trailer #1 (2012) - Karl Urban Movie HD
Dredd is the judge, jury, and executioner in Mega City One, a violent and crime-infested dystopic metropolis. While investigating an incident, he becomes trapped in a slum tower filled with gang members who serve the dangerous drug lord Ma-Ma. “Judge Dredd” is dark, intense, and gritty - a faithful adaptation of the well-known comic book series.
Do you play Doom or seek relentless combat in adrenaline-fueled and action-packed games? Then grab your BFG 9000 because Dredd is for you.
#13
The Dark Knight Series - 2005 / 2008 / 2012
Batman Begins (2005) Official Trailer #1 - Christopher Nolan Movie
Batman strikes again! But this time, Christopher Nolan is in charge. Once Bruce Wayne transforms into Batman, he returns to Gotham to face off against sadistic, chaotic, and disruptive villains. Gritty and critically acclaimed, The Dark Knight Trilogy is one of the most influential superhero films ever. Once you press play, there is no turning back.
Iconic villains, epic fight scenes, car chases, and immersive narratives are the foundation of this infamous trilogy. Why so serious? Log in to Max now and press play!
#14
Ready Player One - 2018
READY PLAYER ONE - Official Trailer 1 [HD]
Follow Wade as he enters the OASIS, a virtual reality where most people escape their daily lives. The creator, James Halliday, dies but leaves behind a competition of puzzles. Whoever solves them by finding the Easter Egg inherits his fortune and control of the OASIS. Get your goggles! We’re going in.
Filled with fun virtual worlds and pop culture references from the 1980s and beyond, Ready Player One is an immersive virtual reality experience in which the game becomes the movie. If you geek-read, too, check out the novel by the same name.
#15
Nerve - 2016
Nerve (2016 Movie) - Official Trailer – ‘Watcher or Player?’
Vee is a high school senior who breaks out of her comfort zone and joins Nerve, an online game. Players complete dares made by anonymous watchers for money and popularity. When things get out of control, Vee finds herself in a dangerous situation with actual consequences. Fast-paced and thrilling, Nerve will have you on the edge of your seat one dare after the next.
If your inner gamer needs thrilling gameplay, this is your flick. Nerve is a risk-for-reward goldmine mixed with interactive social media and high stakes. Are you a watcher or a player?
#16
I, Robot - 2004
I, Robot (2004) Trailer #1 | Movieclips Classic Trailers
In a futuristic world where robots assist humans with everyday things, Detective Spooner investigates the suicide of U.S. Robotics founder Aflred Lanning. But when he digs a little deeper, he finds a conspiracy that runs deep. Sonny, a robot with human emotions, leads Spooner to the new NS-5 robot model meant to enslave the human race.
Any sci-fi fanatic knows AI is thrilling, innovative, and futuristic. This action film is for you if you seek adrenaline-pumping chases, cool tech, and the lingering fear of a world run by machines.
#17
Men in Black - 1997
MEN IN BLACK [1997] - Official Trailer (HD)
Secret agents Jay and Kay police all extraterrestrial threats and alien activity on Earth. With fun gadgets like that memory eraser “flashy thing,” they keep alien invasions a secret. When the MIB uncovers the plot of an intergalactic terrorist, things get dicey, and the action and comedy invade!
MIB is a world-building playland packed with advanced tech, secret organizations, and otherworldly beings. Check out this comedy based on the comic book series of the same name. And if you’re into it, there is a whole universe of spin-offs to check out.
#18
The Man with the Iron Fists - 2012
The Man With The Iron Fists Official Trailer #1 (2012) Russell Crowe, RZA Movie HD
This martial arts action film, set in the 19th century, follows Blacksmith, a man who forges weapons for warriors and factions in his village. When war and violence escalate, he takes a stand to protect the villagers by transforming himself into a human weapon. Join Blacksmith and other iconic heroes as they try and defeat an army before it's too late.
For gamers who love martial arts choreography and stylized violence, this fantasy flick pays homage to classic martial arts films and iconic tropes. A blacksmith needs the right metal; you only need to press play.
#19
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves - 2023
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves | Official Trailer (2023 Movie)
After two years in prison for trying to steal a magical artifact, Edgin and Holga bust out to pick up where they left off. Their adventures turn dangerous when they help the wrong people steal the wrong thing. Can their unlikely team of thieves defeat all their monsters and get back to the task at hand? Press play to find out.
Are you the Dungeon Master? Perhaps a wizard, cleric, or warrior? Watch your favorite role-playing tabletop game come to life in this hilarious and action-packed adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons.
#20
Sucker Punch - 2011
Sucker Punch - Trailer #1
Follow Baby Doll and her imagination as she retreats into a fantasy land inside her mind. She pretends the asylum she’s in is a brothel and the patients are fellow dancers. They formulate a plan to escape, encountering fantastical beasts and epic battles on a dark journey through the mind.
Any gamer who enjoys visually stunning elements and elaborate, stylized action will be captivated by Sucker Punch. Immerse yourself in this fantastic fantasy.
#21
The Game - 1995
The Game (1997) Trailer #1 | Movieclips Classic Trailers
Having cultivated a life of solitude, wealthy banker Nicholas is skeptical when his estranged brother shows up with an odd gift - a personalized game. Reluctantly, he accepts. Things are going well until the game escalates in terrifying and mysterious ways.
Psychologically thrilling, if your inner geek loves solving puzzles and suspense, rewind your television to 1995 and watch Nicholas unravel the clues and his mind.
#22
Surrogates - 2009
Surrogates - HD Trailer
In a futuristic dystopia, people live their lives through remotely controlled robotic avatars called surrogates. In this near-perfect society, agents Greer and Peters investigate the first murder in fifteen years only to uncover a conspiracy. Greer is on a mission to uncover the truth and possibly restore the human connection.
Virtual reality is the name of the game. Do you vicariously live through your favorite avatar? Then Surrogates is definitely the flick for you.
#23
Repo Men - 2010
Repo Men (2010) - Official Trailer HD
Imagine a future where you can buy artificial organs to extend your life. But there’s a catch - if you miss a payment, the Union hunts you down and repossesses the part. When the Union's best agent wakes up with a new heart he can’t afford, Remy finds himself running for his life.
If you geek out for dystopian futures run by powerful corporations, then the intense fight scenes and advanced tech of Repo Men will capture your heart.
#24
Warcraft - 2016
Warcraft - Official Trailer (HD)
Warcraft is a cinematic adaptation of the popular video game of the same name. Set in Azeroth among the human kingdom of Stormwind, Warlock Gul’dan of the orcish Horde invades, waging war to conquer their people and take their resources. Iconic figures dazzle this magical screen with elements of magic, warfare, and political intrigue.
If you play Warcraft, this movie is a no-brainer. Come spend time with your favorite iconic characters, Lothar, Durotan, and Gul’dan, as the lore expands around them.
#25
Star Trek - 2009
Star Trek (2009) Official Trailer - Chris Pine, Eric Bana, Zoe Saldana Movie HD
Follow Spock and Captain Kirk as they embark on a journey to become members of the Interstellar Starfleet. When they encounter Nero, the commander of a Romulan mining vessel, they discover his rageful vengeance threatens all of mankind.
Star Trek and sci-fi fans flock to this expansive fantasy folklore for a reason. If you explore intergalactic themes and extraterrestrial beings, then Star Trek is ready to beam you up!
#26
Dune - 2021
Dune Official Trailer
Paul Atreides is a nobleman with no idea of the epic destiny ahead of him or the power within. He travels to Arrakis, the most dangerous planet, to keep the future of his people safe. But a war explodes over Melange, a valuable spice with immense economic and political importance. His life becomes an intricate web of intrigue as everyone struggles for power.
Gamers who appreciate fantastic world-building, the hero’s journey, and thrilling battles will appreciate this cinematic experience.
#27
Elysium - 2013
ELYSIUM - Official Trailer (HD)
In 2154, Earth is overpopulated and impoverished while the wealthy elite live in a luxurious space station called Elysium. With only five days to live, Max embarks on a mission to infiltrate Elysium’s supply of advanced medical technology that can cure anything. Ruthless battles against mercenaries and robots stand in his way to equality and healthcare access for all Earth's citizens.
Elysium offers a blend of action, sci-fi, and social commentary that resonates with gamers who seek immersive storytelling and phenomenal visuals.
#28
Knights of Badassdom - 2013
Knights Of Badassdom Official Trailer #1 (2013) - Peter Dinklage LARP Movie HD
LARPing has never been so real in this hilarious fantasy flick. When a group of friends accidentally summons a demon from a mystical book, chaos ensues as they band together to defeat the evil spirit. Supernatural threats and geek culture run rampant in this cult classic favorite.
Do you enjoy the blend of horror and comedy? Have you ever LARPed in a field? Any gamer looking to satisfy their role-playing desires in a fantasy film should look no further. Huzzah!
#29
Jumani Franchise - 1995 / 2017 / 2019
JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE - Official Trailer (HD)
Have you wondered what it would be like to get sucked into a game? Alan Parish doesn’t have to wonder in the 1995 classic Jumaji. Years later, the same board game chooses its next victim, but this time disguised as a video game. Four friends are sucked into the jungle of Jumanji, where they must complete complex challenges to beat the game and return home.
If you enjoy humor in your adventure storyline or dream of being inside your favorite video game, this franchise is for you! Welcome to the jungle.
#30
The Super Mario Bros. Movie - 2023
The Super Mario Bros. Movie | Official Trailer
Have you been playing Super Mario Bros. since 1985? 1995? 2015? Believe me when I say this is not the movie of the century. But if you can get past the simple plot, you’re in for a super fun Mario-time! A mysterious water pipe transports Mario and Luigi to the magical Mushroom Kingdom, where every obstacle and challenge is a piece of the beloved game.
Incorporating popular elements from Super Mario Bros., this movie is all about nostalgia. Let’s-a-go as your favorite Nintendo game come to life!
