In recent years, Netflix has not only expanded its influence in the anime world but also excelled at reviving iconic video game stories. Picking the best titles from this vast collection is a tough challenge, but here are 7 game-based series that have truly changed the game.
7. The Cuphead Show
Though it hasn’t received the recognition it deserves, The Cuphead Show remains one of the closest adaptations to the original spirit. It perfectly recreates the distinctive 1930s animation style while preserving the game’s unique humor and aesthetic.
After three successful seasons since 2022, fans are eagerly awaiting Netflix’s confirmation of a fourth season following Cuphead and Mugman’s adventures.
6. Splinter Cell: Deathwatch
Sam Fisher’s return in Splinter Cell: Deathwatch is one of the most impressive newcomers on this list. Premiering its first season last October, the series quickly drew viewers into the story of a seasoned Sam Fisher pulled back into a dangerous world of espionage.
The good news is Netflix has already renewed it for a second season, promising an even higher spot on the rankings if the show keeps up its quality.
5. Devil May Cry
Although it doesn’t share the same universe as the original games, showrunner Adi Shankar has proven himself a true fan by capturing the core values that made Capcom’s iconic franchise famous.
In the first season, viewers see Dante battling demons and discovering that not all hellish beings are purely evil. Fans won’t have to wait long for the demon hunter’s return, as season two is set to drop on May 12.
4. Castlevania: Nocturne
Serving as a sequel to the original Castlevania series, Nocturne follows Richter Belmont with a storyline inspired by the classic games Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night. While it hasn’t shone as brightly as its predecessor, the series delivers thrilling action and deep emotional arcs about the Belmont family. With a new Castlevania game announced earlier this year, fans hope season three will be confirmed soon.
3. Castlevania
This is the series that opened the door for game adaptations on Netflix. Across four seasons, the journey of Trevor, Sypha, and Alucard remains a towering achievement in character development and fight choreography. It proved Netflix can not only adapt but also reinvent a familiar world while showing absolute respect for the source material.
2. Arcane
Many might be surprised that the League of Legends masterpiece doesn’t top the list. Focusing on the tragic story of Vi and Jinx, Arcane boasts breathtaking CG animation.
The main reason it ranks second is that its second season hasn’t quite surpassed the massive impact of the first. Still, the overall story remains outstanding enough to secure a very high spot.
1. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
The top spot goes to Studio TRIGGER’s Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. David’s story is short, sharp, and hauntingly perfect in structure. The series was so successful it revived interest in the Cyberpunk 2077 game, which had a rocky technical start, drawing gamers back to explore Night City.
With perfect scores from critics, this isn’t just the best game adaptation but also one of the greatest anime series ever made.