The Rise of Video Game Movies: A Box Office Overview

For decades, Hollywood has attempted to capture the magic of video games on the big screen, with varying degrees of success. Early adaptations often struggled to resonate with both fans and general audiences. However, recent years have witnessed a dramatic shift, fueled by advancements in visual effects, a deeper understanding of source material, and a growing appetite for nostalgic entertainment. The success of films like The Super Mario Bros. Movie and A Minecraft Movie demonstrates the immense potential of this market.

Top 16 Highest-Grossing Video Game Films of All Time

1. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

   

   Illumination’s partnership with Nintendo proved to be a monumental success. Released in April 2023, The Super Mario Bros. Movie quickly became a global phenomenon, earning over $1.3 billion worldwide. Featuring the voice talents of Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, and Jack Black, the film revitalized a beloved franchise and set a new benchmark for video game adaptations.

   • Domestic – $574,934,330
   • International – $787,009,114
   • Worldwide – $1,361,943,444

2. A Minecraft Movie (2025)

   

   A Minecraft Movie exploded onto the scene in April 2025, amassing over $950 million globally. The film’s success has already greenlit a sequel slated for 2027, signaling a long-term commitment to the franchise. A sequel is already in development, promising further adventures in the blocky world.

   • Domestic – $423,949,195
   • International – $534,000,000
   • Worldwide – $957,949,195

3. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)

   

   Released in December 2024, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 quickly became a critical and commercial success, surpassing $462 million worldwide. The addition of Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog further elevated the film’s appeal, attracting both longtime fans and newcomers. It stands as only the second video game movie to exceed $200 million domestically.

   • Domestic – $230,549,154
   • International – $232,000,000
   • Worldwide – $462,549,154

4. Pokemon Detective Pikachu (2019)

   

   Warner Bros.’ 2019 adaptation of Pokemon Detective Pikachu resonated with audiences and critics alike, grossing over $449 million worldwide. Ryan Reynolds’ voice performance as Pikachu was widely praised, and the film’s blend of mystery, humor, and stunning CGI created a truly immersive experience.

   • Domestic – $144,174,568
   • International – $289,303,033
   • Worldwide – $433,477,601

5. Warcraft (2016)

   

   Despite a lukewarm reception in the US, Warcraft achieved significant success internationally, earning over $439 million worldwide. Directed by Duncan Jones, the film attempted to bring the epic world of Azeroth to life, though plans for a trilogy remain unrealized.

   • Domestic – $47,365,290
   • International – $391,683,624
   • Worldwide – $439,048,914

6. Rampage (2018)

   

   Starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, 2018’s Rampage delivered explosive action and impressive visual effects, grossing over $428 million worldwide.

   • Domestic – $101,028,233
   • International – $327,000,000
   • Worldwide – $428,028,233

7. Uncharted (2022)

   

   Sony’s Uncharted, starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, exceeded expectations with a global gross of over $407 million. The film’s success has fueled discussions about a potential sequel and the development of a broader franchise.

   • Domestic – $148,648,820
   • International – $258,492,438
   • Worldwide – $407,141,258

8. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022)

   

   Sonic the Hedgehog 2 continued the momentum of the first film, becoming the highest-grossing video game movie of all time in the US. With plans for a cinematic universe underway, including a Knuckles TV series, the future looks bright for the blue blur.

   • Domestic – $190,872,904
   • International – $214,548,614
   • Worldwide – $405,421,518

9. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026)

   

   • Domestic – $190,100,000
   • International – $182,400,000
   • Worldwide – $372,500,000

10. The Angry Birds Movie (2016)

    

    Based on the wildly popular mobile game, The Angry Birds Movie soared to over $352 million worldwide, proving the appeal of adapting mobile gaming franchises.

    • Domestic – $107,509,366
    • International – $244,824,563
    • Worldwide – $352,333,929

11. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010)

    

    Disney’s 2010 adaptation of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time earned over $336 million globally, largely driven by international markets.

    • Domestic – $90,759,676
    • International – $245,606,000
    • Worldwide – $336,365,676

12. Sonic the Hedgehog (2020)

    

    Despite initial controversy surrounding its character design, Sonic the Hedgehog proved to be a hit, grossing over $319 million worldwide and paving the way for a sequel.

    • Domestic – $148,974,665
    • International – $170,741,018
    • Worldwide – $319,715,683

13. Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016)

    

    The sixth and final installment in the main Resident Evil film series, The Final Chapter, earned over $312 million worldwide, bringing the franchise’s total gross to over $1 billion.

    • Domestic – $26,830,068
    • International – $285,412,558
    • Worldwide – $312,242,626

14. Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)

    

    Resident Evil: Afterlife contributed over $300 million to the franchise’s impressive box office total.

    • Domestic – $60,128,566
    • International – $240,099,518
    • Worldwide – $300,228,084

15. Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023)

    

    The 2023 adaptation of the popular horror game Five Nights at Freddy’s quickly became a box office success, earning over $291 million globally.

    • Domestic – $137,275,620
    • International – $154,313,796
    • Worldwide – $291,589,416

16. Tomb Raider (2018)

    

    Starring Alicia Vikander, the 2018 reboot of Tomb Raider grossed over $274 million worldwide, with the majority of its earnings coming from international markets.

    • Domestic – $58,250,803
    • International – $216,400,000
    • Worldwide – $274,650,803

Frequently Asked Questions About Video Game Movies