The gaming industry has rapidly become a dominant entertainment form globally, evolving in graphics and narrative. Major studios now enlist top actors to breathe life into digital characters, elevating games to new artistic levels. With technological advancements like motion capture, games have adopted cinematic styles, offering interactive experiences akin to Hollywood films. As these innovations progress, more Hollywood actors are recognizing video games as platforms to showcase their talent, blurring the line between traditional Hollywood and gaming.
10 Assassin’s Creed
Kristen Bell
Upon its release, the action-adventure game Assassin’s Creed captivated players with its historical setting during the Crusades. The open-world stealth game features Assassin Altair on a mission to eliminate Templars, boasting rich detail and lore.
Actress Kristen Bell, known for her work in TV shows like Veronica Mars and movies such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall, lends her voice and likeness to Lucy Stillman in the game, enhancing the character's presence across multiple sequels.
9 The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion
Patrick Stewart, Sean Bean
In the expansive open-world of Oblivion, Bethesda enlisted renowned actors like Sir Patrick Stewart and Sean Bean for voice roles. Stewart, famous for X-Men and Star Trek: The Next Generation, voices Emperor Uriel Septim VII, while Bean portrays Martin, adding gravitas to their respective characters.
8 Fallout 3
Liam Neeson
The iconic Fallout 3 immersed players in a post-apocalyptic world, with Liam Neeson delivering a compelling performance as the player's father. Neeson's portrayal exudes paternal warmth, leaving a lasting impact on the game's narrative.
7 Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain
Kiefer Sutherland
In Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain, actor Kiefer Sutherland lends his voice to Punished "Venom" Snake, enhancing the stealth game's espionage narrative. Sutherland's expertise from 24 brings authenticity to the character, embodying the essence of espionage warfare.
6 Cyberpunk 2077
Keanu Reeves, Idris Elba
Cyberpunk 2077 featured Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand, elevating the game's narrative. Despite a rocky launch, subsequent updates and the addition of Idris Elba in the DLC improved the game's reception, showcasing Hollywood talents in gaming.
5 Mass Effect 2 & 3
Martin Sheen
Renowned for its expansive universe, the Mass Effect series captivated players with its epic narrative. Actor Martin Sheen provided a commanding voice to The Illusive Man, adding depth and intrigue to the character throughout the trilogy.
4 Until Dawn
Rami Malek, Hayden Panettiere
Until Dawn engaged players with its interactive horror narrative, featuring actors like Rami Malek and Hayden Panettiere in pivotal roles. The game's success stemmed from the talents of these actors, who brought the characters to life with their performances.
3 The Quarry
David Arquette, Lance Henrikson, Lin Shaye, Ted Raimi
In the spirit of Until Dawn, The Quarry leverages a stellar cast including Lance Henrikson, Ted Raimi, David Arquette, and Lin Shaye to deliver a terrifying narrative. Player choices and quick time events shape the characters' fates, offering a dynamic horror experience.
2 Death Stranding
Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, Mads Mikkelsen, Guillermo del Toro, Nicolas Winding Refn
Death Stranding, spearheaded by Norman Reedus, features an ensemble cast that includes Léa Seydoux and Mads Mikkelsen, blurring the lines between gaming and cinematic experiences. Directors like Guillermo del Toro and Nicolas Winding Refn contribute to the game's artistic depth, setting a new standard for collaboration.
1 Beyond: Two Souls
Elliot Page, Willem Dafoe
Beyond: Two Souls revolutionized gaming with its cinematic approach, premiering at prestigious events like the Tribeca Film Festival. Actors Elliot Page and Willem Dafoe delivered exceptional performances, utilizing motion capture to create a mature gaming experience with unparalleled narrative depth.