Although not achieving the success expected by fans and critics alike, “Warcraft” still brought substantial profits to the production company and ensured a sequel. Through it, it has paved the way for a new trend in blockbuster films based on video games, potentially opening the door for filmmakers to create many adaptations of popular games into movies.
According to the information revealed and what audiences have seen on screen, “Warcraft” is based on the storyline from the classic RTS version created by Blizzard. However, in reality, it must be acknowledged that the significant influence of the “World of Warcraft” franchise has contributed to its success and made fans eagerly anticipate this film. Over the past 12 years, the MMORPG king has had 6 expansive expansions, increasing the amount of lore, history, characters, and locations, turning it into the largest fantasy universe ever created.
There are many impressive achievements that Hollywood has begun to explore when it comes to making films based on Blizzard’s brand, and they also want to earn some extra revenue from its intellectual properties. After watching the film, many of us hope to see more blockbuster films based on other famous MMORPGs worldwide being brought to the big screen, such as the following 11 titles:
Aion
One of the most captivating aspects of this MMO is its stunning graphics, and “Aion” is one of the products with the most alluring environment of this type. The world of Atreia is divided into two factions, each with a more vibrant aesthetic. And the sky is where the conflicts occur, with characters from the two factions, Asmodian and Elyos, perpetually battling each other amid the ethereal skies, which is the unique hallmark of “Aion” – where characters can fly gracefully and create breathtaking aerial combat.
Guild Wars
All three versions of “Guild Wars” have received special attention for their storyline, and it is one of the most attractive features that draw players in. On the continent of Elona, players enter various battlefields, engaging in epic confrontations to prevent the return of a dark god. Interspersed with vibrant locations, where battles and adventures occur against distant realms, this would be a narrative ripe for film adaptation.
Fallen Earth
With the success of “Mad Max: Fury Road,” the post-apocalyptic setting becomes hot again on the big screen. “Fallen Earth” is an MMORPG released in 2009, placing players in a terminally ill civilization on the vast landscape surrounding the Grand Canyon. With only 1% of the population surviving and many people transformed into mutated beasts due to a virus in the atmosphere, each day is a story of survival. A science fiction film combining the Wild West would be incredibly appealing to adapt this game.
Mabinogi
A Korean MMO that draws inspiration from the mythos of Iceland, “Mabinogi” presents a unique blend of fantasy elements. Players can explore the land of Erinn, engaging in activities like farming and battling mystical creatures, and wielding magical powers. The developer, devCat, continues expanding the lore, characters, and locations for the game’s fantasy world. A film adaptation based on this enchanting tale would be an excellent choice to attract a teenage audience.
Anarchy Online
While fantasy-themed MMORPGs are prevalent, there are also distinctive titles that delve into sci-fi realms. “Anarchy Online” is one of the pioneering titles released in 2001, and for its loyal fans, it has always held a special place in the gaming landscape, standing out among its peers. Players are transported to a distant planet in a futuristic universe, where they must survive against alien invasions, hidden artifacts, and various dangerous factions. This is a rich universe that could be developed into a long-running film franchise.
(to be continued)
