Horizon: PlayStation's Potential Big Screen Triumph with Game Loyalty

Following the success of Uncharted in 2022 and the critically acclaimed HBO adaptation of The Last of Us, Sony has announced a cinematic adaptation of Horizon Zero Dawn. PlayStation Studios and Columbia Pictures are bringing Aloy’s origin story and the game's captivating, machine-filled world to life on the big screen. Although the movie is in its early stages, there's a strong belief that it could be Sony’s first major box office success from a video game, provided it remains true to the source material.

Recent years have witnessed a surge in successful video game adaptations across both television and film. Family-friendly hits like The Super Mario Brothers and Sonic films have set high standards with their positive critical reception and impressive box office numbers. On the small screen, Sony's The Last of Us has joined the ranks of fan favorites like Netflix's Arcane and Amazon Prime's Fallout. Even adaptations with mixed reviews, such as the Tom Holland-starring Uncharted, have managed to surpass $400 million in global box office earnings.

However, the lingering "video game curse" presents ongoing challenges. While Uncharted found its audience, it strayed from the faithful adaptation fans desired. Recent disappointments like the Borderlands film and Amazon's Like a Dragon: Yakuza series failed to capture the essence of their source games, leading to poor critical and box office performance. This issue extends beyond video games, as seen with Netflix's The Witcher, which significantly deviated from its source material, resulting in a product that felt entirely different from the beloved books.

The Horizon movie isn't the first attempt to bring the franchise to screens. Netflix had planned a series, rumored to be titled "Horizon 2074," set in the pre-apocalypse era, which stirred controversy among fans eager for a faithful adaptation showcasing the iconic robotic creatures. Fortunately, the project is no longer in development at Netflix, and Horizon is now slated for a cinematic release, a decision likely influenced by the need for extensive CGI to bring the game's visuals to life.

If Horizon receives the same careful treatment as The Last of Us, there's no reason it can't be PlayStation’s first cinematic triumph. Successful adaptations like Fallout, Arcane, and The Last of Us have been lauded for their fidelity to the source material, resonating with both fans and newcomers. While The Last of Us did introduce new storylines, it largely adhered to the game’s narrative structure, leading to widespread acclaim.

Staying true to the original Horizon Zero Dawn story is crucial not only for meeting fan expectations but also because the game's narrative is highly respected, having won the Best Narrative at The Game Awards in 2017 and the Outstanding Achievement in Story at the 2018 DICE Awards. Set in 31st century North America, the story follows Aloy, a Nora Tribe member, as she uncovers the mystery of her origins and their connection to Elisabet Sobeck, a scientist from the old world. The rich world-building, intricate community dynamics, and captivating characters like Aloy, Erend, and Varl offer a fertile ground for a compelling film franchise.

The unique cultures and robotic ecosystems of Horizon could captivate audiences as effectively as Avatar's Na'vi tribes. The potential for visually stunning combat encounters with creatures like Sawtooths, Tallnecks, and Stormbirds, combined with the narrative depth and action-packed sequences, sets the stage for a successful adaptation. The broader story introduced in Horizon Forbidden West further expands the franchise's potential for long-term success in cinemas.

By preserving the elements that made the game a success, Horizon has the foundation for a compelling film adaptation. As Sony plans to adapt more titles like Ghost of Tsushima and Helldivers 2, a faithful approach could set PlayStation up for success in the film and TV industry. However, deviating from what made Horizon great could lead to negative fan feedback and financial losses, as seen with other poorly received adaptations. It's hoped that Sony, along with its chosen writers and directors, will recognize the value of staying true to the source material and deliver a worthy adaptation of Horizon.

Horizon's unique robotic ecosystems would be incredible to witness on the big screen.

The unique cultures of Horizon's world could prove as compelling as Avatar's Na'vi tribes.