Particle.news

Paul W. S. Anderson Calls Adapting Video Games Without Playing Them 'Outrageous'

He requires crews to study the games to replicate their look, feel, mechanics.

Overview

  • Speaking on the Post Games podcast, the Mortal Kombat, Resident Evil, and Monster Hunter director criticized filmmakers who tackle game IPs without firsthand exposure, calling the practice unacceptable.
  • Anderson said production designers must play or watch playthroughs, with cinematographers noting how in‑game cameras move, so the finished film carries the source material’s visual language.
  • He framed his approach around respect for the IP and understanding what players value, citing iconic Resident Evil scares as guidance for tone without copying a game beat for beat.
  • PC Gamer reported he is finished personally directing Resident Evil entries, while acknowledging the series functions as a long‑running “forever franchise.”
  • Coverage from PC Gamer and GamesRadar+ placed his comments within the current boom for game adaptations, including recent successes like Fallout and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.