Successful game "Phasmophobia" gets a film adaptation from Blumhouse
Information on the cast or the director is still pending
Attention horror fans: The successful game "Phasmophobia" is being made into a movie – and none other than the genre experts at Blumhouse are responsible for the production. The announcement was made at Blumhouse's first industry event "The Business of Fear" in Hollywood.
"Phasmophobia" was released in 2020 and was developed by British indie studio Kinetic Games. The game quickly became a worldwide phenomenon: over 23 million copies sold and a passionate fan base make it a defining title in the multiplayer horror genre. The gameplay is based on identifying ghost types at various haunted locations – either solo or in a team from a first-person perspective.
According to Deadline, Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, James Wan's studio, are teaming up with Kinetic Games for the film adaptation. Information on the director, the cast or a start date has yet to be announced.
From console to cinema: when horror games see the light of day on the big screen
Horror games have been thrilling millions of players worldwide for decades. They combine gripping stories, intense atmosphere and interactive fear – perfect ingredients for the movies. Hollywood has long recognized this and has made numerous games of the genre into films. Films such as "Resident Evil" and "Silent Hill", but also modern hits such as "Until Dawn" or "Five Nights at Freddy's" show how versatile and effective the horror genre is – whether with a controller or popcorn in hand.
Why horror games are made into films
Horror games offer a clear advantage over other game genres: they have a strong narrative and are emotionally intense. You experience the action up close, make decisions, fear with the characters – this creates an emotional connection that also works on screen. Many of these games are also visually and dramatically cinematic. This makes them ideal models for film studios looking for new horror material.
Resident Evil: the franchise as a cinema giant
The big horror game film adaptations began in 2002 with "Resident Evil". Directed by Paul W. S. Anderson, the game was turned into a six-part action horror film series starring Milla Jovovich. Although the films departed significantly from the game, they set their own accents with zombie action, labs and a dystopian atmosphere – and were a complete financial success.
In 2021, a return to the video game template was attempted with "Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City". This version stuck closer to the first two games, but once again divided critics and fans. Despite its weaknesses, "Resident Evil" remains the most successful horror game franchise in the film industry.
Silent Hill: Nightmarish atmosphere
"Silent Hill" was released in cinemas in 2006 – to this day, the film is considered one of the most atmospherically successful game adaptations. Director Christophe Gans impressively captured the surreal, psychological horror of the original game. The fog-shrouded ghost town, dark creatures and religious fanaticism created a unique look. A remake directed by Gans is currently in the works, to coincide with the new game "Silent Hill 2" remake.
Slender Man: from internet myth to film character
"Slender Man" began as an internet legend, became famous through the indie game "Slender: The Eight Pages" and found his way into the movies in 2018. However, the movie fell short of expectations as it strayed too far from the simple, nerve-wracking game idea. Nevertheless, the case showed how strongly video game culture and modern myths are interwoven today.
Until Dawn: the perfect slasher for the big screen
Even as a game, "Until Dawn" was structured like an interactive horror film. In the best slasher style, a group of teenagers are stranded in a remote mountain cabin – dark secrets and deadly threats included. The film adaptation, released in 2025, relies on a dark production, strong young actors and the psychological horror that characterizes the game. Without gameplay, but with plenty of atmosphere, this is a thrilling movie adaptation.
Five Nights at Freddy's: horror with a nostalgia factor
In 2023, Blumhouse brought "Five Nights at Freddy's" to the big screen. The game about a night watchman who has to hold his own against murderous animatronics became a modern horror icon. The film adaptation appealed to fans, despite its narrative weaknesses – thanks to the dark backdrops, iconic characters and pop culture references.
Conclusion: interactive horror becomes cinematic
Horror games offer strong worlds, clear rules and emotional depth – ideal ingredients for cinematic storytelling. From "Resident Evil" to "Silent Hill" and "Until Dawn", it's clear that when respect for the source material and creative vision come together, game adaptations can become true horror highlights. And the next shock is already waiting – whether on screen or off.
