Best TV Shows Based On RPGs, Ranked

Highlights

• RPG adaptations offer mixed reviews on TV, with shows like
  The Witcher
  and
  Final Fantasy
  lacking depth but capturing nostalgia.
• From
  Pokemon
  to
  Persona
  , animated adaptations of beloved RPGs resonate with audiences through compelling plots and character exploration.
• The Witcher
  on Netflix successfully brings Geralt’s quests and Yennefer’s magic to life and boasts an 8.0 IMDB rating.

Role-playing games (RPGs) have long captivated audiences with immersive worlds, epic quests, and memorable characters. From fantastical realms to futuristic dystopias, these digital adventures, often overlooked in the adaptation landscape, possess untapped potential for compelling television series. The allure of RPGs lies in their rich storytelling, weaving intricate plots and character arcs. Viewers crave the same depth and immersion that these games provide. Fortunately, several RPGs have taken this plunge into television, to a mixed reception.

Whether a seasoned dungeon master or a novice adventurer, these shows blend nostalgia with suspense and character-driven storytelling that appeal to a wider audience. By capturing audience reception from IMDB ratings, this ranked list highlights the best RPG adaptations that TV offers. These adaptations bring beloved game worlds to life on the small screen, inviting viewers to embark on new quests from the comfort of their living rooms.

7 The Witcher: Blood Origin

IMDB Rating: 4.9

The Witcher: Blood Origin is a Netflix prequel series set 1,200 years before the main Witcher saga. It unveils the creation of the first Witcher and explores the fallen Elven civilization of Xin’trea. Elements from the Witcher RPG are seamlessly woven in, including powerful monoliths that allow the opening of portals between worlds and intricate fantasy politics through the thousand-year war.

Despite its intriguing premise, the show’s IMDb rating of 4.9 reflects mixed reviews. Some appreciate the fresh take on Witcher lore, expanding on aspects of the video game, while others crave more depth than Blood Origins was able to offer. Whichever side fans sit on, it is safe to presume that the show leaves everyone craving further adventures in this RPG’s fantastical realm, and this is definitely something Netflix offers.

6 Final Fantasy: Legend of the Crystals

IMDB Rating: 6.0

• Studio: Madhouse
• Release Date: 1994-03-21
• Genres: Fantasy, Adventure

Transporting viewers 200 years beyond the events of Final Fantasy 5. This miniseries follows the intrepid Linaly, a descendant of the valiant Bartz Klauser and her steadfast companion, Prettz. The show’s narrative orbits around a quest for the elusive crystals – those elemental keystones that have long been part of the Final Fantasy franchise. As Linaly and Prettz traverse their fantastical world, they encounter not only the shimmering crystals but also a menagerie of creatures, from menacing monsters to ethereal phantoms, further pulling on elements of the beloved RPG franchise.

But why does this animated gem bear an IMDb rating of 6.0? Some critics argue that it lacks the depth and intricate storytelling found in its RPG source material, essentially being a cartoon show for children and lacking real character motivations. While the show captures the essence of the Final Fantasy universe, it occasionally stumbles in its execution. Regardless, fans of the franchise will appreciate the nostalgic nods to the game.

5 Blue Dragon

IMDB Rating: 6.3

• Studio: Pierrot
• Release Date: 2007-04-07
• Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy

In the mystical realm of Blue Dragon, an animated odyssey unfolds. Adapted from the beloved Xbox 360 RPG, this Japanese anime series beckons viewers into a world where courage and shadows intertwine. Shu is an impulsive protagonist, whose home faces an enigmatic assault. He and his friends discover the Shadow, an ability which allows them to transform their own shadows into formidable creatures. Shu, wields the mighty Blue Dragon, one of the seven radiant shadows. Together, they embark on a quest to thwart their mysterious adversary.

The show deftly mirrors its RPG roots, basing itself too upon Final Fantasy games. The Blue Dragon game struggled in the same way the show did, hitting an IMDB score of 6.3. It struggled to reach a wider fan base and appeal to the wider anime audience.

4 Persona 5: The Animation

IMDB Rating: 6.6

Persona 5: The Animation successfully captures the essence of the beloved game, maintaining its central plot, character dynamics, and themes of rebellion. While some pacing issues arise due to condensation, the core narrative remains compelling for fans of the game. The animation quality, though occasionally lacking, retains the stylish aesthetic of the games, too.

IMDb scores, subjective as they are, reflect a still mixed reception to this animation. Persona 5: The Animation translates the game’s heart and soul, inviting both veterans and newcomers to explore a world of shadows, rebellion, and stolen hearts whilst struggling to offer the depth of the game in the small number of animated hours.

3 Pokemon

IMDB Rating: 7.5

The animated adaptation of the beloved Pokemon franchise has enchanted fans across generations. From Ash’s origins in Pallet Town to the many gyms along the way, the show immerses viewers in a vibrant world of trainers, battles, and legendary creatures. Ash Ketchum and his loyal Pikachu embark on a journey of growth, friendship, and determination, something fans of the games have loved doing for over 20 years.

The heart of the series lies in the bond between trainers and their Pokémon, something all gamers can easily relate to. With 7.5 on IMDB, it is clear that this show is a massive success with gamers. With the excessive total runtime of this show, many episodes do not quite follow the same strong narrative, often with side episodes of distraction. Despite these episodes, the series highlights everything fun and engaging about video games.

2 Persona 4: The Animation

IMDB Rating: 7.6

• Studio: AIC ASTA
• Release Date: 2011-10-07
• Genres: Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Supernatural

This anime adaptation faithfully brings Atlus’ Persona 4 game to life. It follows Yu Narukami as he unravels a murder mystery in the enigmatic town of Inaba. The show captures the game’s essence, including Personas, Shadows, and the Midnight Channel, and the character exploration delves into their personalities and bonds.

The engaging plot keeps viewers hooked, despite minor animation issues that might stand out. With a rating of 7.6 on IMDB, the show stands out as one of the best anime adaptations of a video game series. As the video game has such a gripping narrative, it is no wonder this adaptation easily captures the source material so well.

1 The Witcher

IMDB Rating: 8.0

The Witcher, a fantasy drama series based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s books and adapted onto Netflix, brilliantly adapts the legend of Geralt of Rivia, Yennefer of Vengerberg, and Princess Ciri. The show remains mostly faithful to the dark magic, intricate lore, and complex characters that have been present in the popular RPG video game series. We witness Geralt’s monster-hunting quests, Yennefer’s sorcery, and Ciri’s destiny throughout each episode of the show.

The engaging plotlines span multiple seasons, introducing viewers to the rich world that many fans have had the chance to spend hours, if not days, exploring already. IMDB has a score of 8.0. Its success speaks volumes about how fans received the series and eagerly await the newest release, appreciating the storytelling, unique characters, and Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt – which has sadly come to an end.