"Vampire Survivors" gets a live-action adaptation

An endless fight for survival, hordes of monsters and a huge arsenal of weapons. All of this is at the heart of the action game "Vampire Survivors", which is now to be adapted for the big screen in the form of a live-action film.

As GameRant reports, Studio Poncle has teamed up with Story Kitchen, who have already gained some experience with video game adaptations. For example, they were involved in the "Sonic" films and the Netflix series "Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft". According to Poncle, the challenge is that "Vampire Survivors" does not have a traditional plot. Quote:

"Nobody can really anticipate how a film about it will be".

In addition to the movie adaptation, there will also be innovations in the game itself. Although updates will be less frequent, they will be more extensive, including the cross-save functionality that will be introduced with the first patch in 2025.

A particular highlight for fans was the "Ode to Castlevania" DLC released in October 2024, a crossover with Konami's legendary "Castlevania" series.

"Vampire Survivors" has already won several awards, including the Action Game of the Year Award at the 2023 DICE Awards and the Breakthrough Award at the 2022 Golden Joystick Awards.

The world of vampire action movies: A mix of blood, suspense and adrenaline

Vampire action films have held a special fascination for moviegoers for decades. They combine mystical elements with fast-paced action and a good dose of blood – just as the genre should be!

1. Blade trilogy (1998-2004)

The "Blade" trilogy is considered one of the pioneering series in the vampire action genre. With Wesley Snipes in the lead role as Blade, a half-human, half-vampire who has made it his mission to hunt bloodthirsty vampires, the series brought a new dimension to the vampire film landscape.

The films are characterized by a mixture of martial arts action, futuristic technology and a dark, urban aesthetic. The first part in particular, "Blade" (1998), revolutionized the genre with its uncompromising action and cool anti-hero. The soundtrack, which combined electronic beats and hip-hop, also contributed to the popularity of the films. The third part, "Blade: Trinity" (2004), received mixed reviews, but still offered spectacular action sequences and brought a breath of fresh air to the franchise with Ryan Reynolds and Jessica Biel.

2. Underworld series (2003-2016)

Another iconic vampire film series is "Underworld". Starring Kate Beckinsale as the vampire warrior Selene, this series represents an epic battle between vampires and werewolves.

The "Underworld" films are known for their gothic aesthetics, spectacular close combat sequences and a deep backstory that spans centuries. The world of the "Underworld" films is particularly impressive: a complex mythology of betrayal, loyalty and the endless conflict between two hostile species. Highlights of the series are the first installment ("Underworld", 2003) and the prequel film "Underworld: Rise of the Lycans" (2009), which sheds light on the origins of the conflict.

Despite diminishing critical acclaim for the later parts, the series remains a must-see for fans of the genre.

3. Van Helsing (2004)

Although "Van Helsing" is not part of a series, this movie deserves mention for its unique take on the vampire action genre. Hugh Jackman plays the titular monster hunter who fights not only Dracula, but also other creatures such as the werewolf and Frankenstein's monster.

Director Stephen Sommers, known for "The Mummy", created an explosive mixture of horror and adventure with "Van Helsing". Despite mixed reviews due to its overloaded plot, the film offers plenty of spectacle and is considered a nostalgic treat for many fans.

4. 30 Days of Night (2007 and 2010)

A more unusual but nevertheless exciting vampire film series is "30 Days of Night". Based on a graphic novel by Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, the first movie is set in a remote Alaskan town that is haunted by a group of particularly gruesome vampires during 30 days of darkness.

The portrayal of vampires in these films is refreshingly different: they are not romanticized, alluring figures, but brutal and merciless predators. The film combines claustrophobic suspense with shocking moments, setting it apart from other representatives of the genre. "30 Days of Night: Dark Days" (2010), the sequel, was unable to build on the success of the first part, but offers fans of the graphic novel a complementary story.

5. Daybreakers (2009)

"Daybreakers" is a vampire action movie with an original premise: The world is ruled by vampires, and humans have become an endangered species. Ethan Hawke plays a scientist looking for a solution to save humanity.

The film combines science fiction elements with vampire mythology and poses exciting ethical questions about the scarcity of resources and the exploitation of minorities. The action-packed scenes and dystopian atmosphere make "Daybreakers" an insider tip in the genre.

6. Dracula Untold (2014)

"Dracula Untold" attempts to retell the origins of the most famous vampire character of all time. Luke Evans plays Vlad Tepes, who makes a pact to save his family and his people from an overpowering threat and becomes the first vampire in the process.

The film combines historical elements with fantasy and epic action. Although the reviews were mixed, "Dracula Untold" impressed with its visual splendor and the emotional depth of its main character. Originally planned as the starting point for a "Dark Universe", the film ultimately remained a stand-alone project.