Microsoft Gaming Boss Phil Spencer Says Xbox Fans Will See More Movie and TV Show Adaptations, Despite the Failure of Halo — So What's Next?

Despite the underwhelming reception of the Halo TV series, Microsoft remains committed to adapting its video game franchises for film and television. Microsoft gaming chief Phil Spencer confirmed this in a recent interview with Variety, hinting at more adaptations on the horizon. This announcement follows the upcoming release of Minecraft: The Movie, and the successful Fallout series on Prime Video. Spencer acknowledges the lessons learned from both Halo and Fallout, stating that these experiences are building confidence and informing future projects. He expects some adaptations to fall short, but assures fans of continued efforts.

The question now turns to which Xbox game will be adapted next. A live-action film and animated series based on Gears of War were announced by Netflix in 2022, though updates have been scarce beyond Dave Bautista’s expressed interest in playing Marcus Fenix.

Upcoming Video Game Adaptations: 2025 and Beyond

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Speculation abounds. Given Fallout’s success, a The Elder Scrolls/Skyrim series on Prime Video seems plausible, though Amazon’s existing fantasy offerings might lessen their interest. The unexpected success of Sony’s Gran Turismo movie raises the possibility of a Forza Horizon film for Microsoft.

Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard opens doors for adaptations like a Call of Duty movie or a revived Warcraft project (previous Netflix attempts stalled). Jason Schreier's book, Play Nice, details the abandoned Netflix projects for Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo. Microsoft could potentially resurrect these.

Family-friendly options include Crash Bandicoot, which, given the success of Mario and Sonic films, seems ripe for an animated adaptation. The upcoming 2026 Fable reboot could also inspire an adaptation. Even a Halo movie remains a possibility.

In contrast, Microsoft’s competitors, Sony and Nintendo, are further ahead in this space. Sony boasts successes like the Uncharted movie, The Last of Us series, and Twisted Metal, with upcoming projects including Helldivers 2, Horizon Zero Dawn, Ghost of Tsushima, and God of War. Nintendo enjoys the massive success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, with a sequel and a live-action Legend of Zelda adaptation in development.