2023 Movie Ranked the Greatest Video Game Adaptation of All Time

May 10, 2026 - 00:06

Fans on IMDb have spoken, and the 2023 film "Gran Turismo" has officially been ranked as the greatest video game adaptation of all time. The movie, which tells the true story of a teenage gamer who becomes a professional race car driver, topped the site's user-generated list, beating out other popular adaptations like "The Last of Us" and "Sonic the Hedgehog."

Unlike many previous attempts to bring games to the big screen, "Gran Turismo" was praised for its grounded, underdog narrative. The film follows Jann Mardenborough, a young man who wins a series of competitions through the Gran Turismo video game and eventually races in real-world professional events. Critics and audiences noted that the movie avoided the common pitfalls of the genre, such as overly fantastical plots or characters that don't translate well to live action.

The success of "Gran Turismo" highlights a shift in how Hollywood approaches video game properties. For decades, films based on games were often viewed as cheap cash grabs. But recent projects have shown that with a strong story and respect for the source material, these adaptations can win over both gamers and general audiences. The film's focus on a real-life success story, rather than a fictional racing adventure, gave it a unique appeal that resonated with voters on IMDb.

The ranking also reflects a growing trend where video game movies are no longer seen as a joke. With "Gran Turismo" now holding the top spot, it sets a new standard for future adaptations looking to break into the genre.