55 Video Game Documentary Films
55 titles
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100 Yen: The Japanese Arcade ExperienceMovie · 2012 · 68mIn a future Tokyo dominated by video games, arcades are not relics of the past but vibrant hubs of entertainment. "100 Yen" is a documentary exploring the history and culture of these thriving game centers, from their origins to the present day. The film focuses on three major arcade genres: shooting, fighting, and rhythm games, examining their evolution through interviews with industry professionals, game developers, casual players, and gaming legends from Japan, Canada, and the USA.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 2
Gaming in ColorMovie · 2014 · 62mThis documentary examines the LGBTQ+ community within gaming culture and the growing presence of queer people in the video game industry. The 2013 GaymerX convention marked a significant moment for visibility and recognition of the queer geek community on a global scale. That same year saw an increase in mainstream and independent games featuring gay and lesbian characters, contributing to greater representation and acceptance. The future of video games will depend on fostering inclusion and mutual respect – embracing the diversity of its community and industry.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.2 - 3Game Over: Gender, Race & Violence in Video GamesMovie · 2000The video and computer game industry is a $6 billion annual business. A tenth of American households own a Sony Playstation, and children with gaming equipment spend an average of ten hours a week playing. Despite reaching millions of children globally, video games are surprisingly under-examined. "Game Over" is the first documentary to explore this rapidly growing media through questions of gender, race, and violence. It offers a thoughtful discussion about the controversial topic of video game violence, encouraging high school and college students to critically analyze their gaming habits.
- 4GamersMovie · 2010 · 62mThis documentary follows filmmaker Ben Gonyo over two years as he immerses himself in the world of massively multiplayer online games, such as World of Warcraft, exploring the unique subculture that thrives within them.
- 58 Bit: A Documentary about Art and VideogamesMovie · 2006 · 75m8 BIT is a documentary exploring how video games have shaped today's culture. It blends documentary footage with art and cultural analysis to connect seemingly unrelated things: the 1980s video game demo scene, chiptune music, and modern artists who use games in creative ways. Filmed in New York City, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tokyo, 8 BIT offers a worldwide view of how the DIY generation, raised on Atari and Commodore 64, is creating new art. The film argues that 21st-century game music, machinima, and game studies all stem from the digital history of Generation X.
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Europe in 8 BitsMovie · 2013 · 76mThe leading figures in Europe's thriving chip music scene use vintage video game and home computer hardware – like the Nintendo Game Boy and NES, Atari ST, Commodore Amiga and C64 – to create a fresh musical style. They repurpose these old machines to generate new sounds, resulting in a modern and innovative tempo.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.1 - 7
From Bedrooms to BillionsMovie · 2014 · 162m"From Bedrooms to Billions" is a 2014 documentary by Anthony and Nicola Caulfield that chronicles the history of the British video games industry from 1979 to today. It highlights how the creativity and foresight of a small group of people enabled the UK to make a crucial, pioneering contribution to the development of the now billion-dollar video games industry, which shapes entertainment worldwide. The film includes interviews with prominent British game designers, journalists, and musicians spanning the last three decades.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 8
Ecstasy of Order: The Tetris MastersMovie · 2012 · 93m · DocumentaryThis documentary follows the world's top Tetris players as they train for the Classic Tetris World Championship. It chronicles over two decades of Tetris history, from Thor Aackerlund's win at the 1990 Nintendo World Championships to Harry Hong achieving a perfect score.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9 - 9
The Making of Silent Hill 3Movie · 2003 · 25mThis short documentary chronicles the creation of the 2003 video game *Silent Hill 3*. It offers a glimpse into the development process of the acclaimed title.TMDB 8.1 - 10Sonic: The Birth of an IconMovie · 2011 · 42mThis documentary features exclusive interviews and archival footage that chronicles Sonic's journey, from his creation to his rise as a defining figure in video game history.IMDb 7.6TMDB 8.2
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I Got NextMovie · 2011 · 96m"I Got Next" is a documentary about the competitive fighting game community. It focuses on four key players – Justin Wong, Ryan "Gootecks" Gutierrez, Joe "iloveu" Ciaramelli, and Mike Ross – as they navigate the scene following the release of Street Fighter 4. The game's popularity revitalized the fighting game genre and reignited the long-standing East Coast versus West Coast rivalry.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 12
Hitman: Burning HopeMovie · 2012 · 59mThis behind-the-scenes documentary chronicles the development of the video game *Hitman: Absolution*. It offers a look at the process of creating the game, from its initial conception to its final release.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0 - 13
Gameloading: Rise of the IndiesMovie · 2015 · 92mGameLoading: Rise of the Indies is a documentary that looks at the world of independent video game developers. It explores their work, the games they create, their aspirations, and how they have significantly impacted the gaming world.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.5 - 14
Going Cardboard: A Board Game DocumentaryMovie · 2012 · 76mThis film explores the surprising rise of a new board game craze, likely happening right in your own community. It offers a glimpse into this world, introducing the people who play and create these games – a refreshing alternative to digital entertainment. You might just find a new hobby you love.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1 - 15
Video Games: The MovieMovie · 2014 · 101m · Documentary"Video Games: The Movie," from executive producer Zach Braff and director Jeremy Snead, is a documentary that follows the rapid growth of video games, from a hobby for enthusiasts to a major global industry. Narrated by Sean Astin and featuring interviews with the pioneers who built the industry, influential game designers, and innovators shaping its future, the film celebrates gaming's history, from Atari to Xbox, while also exploring what's next.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1 - 16
Factory of the SunMovie · 2015 · 20mSteyerl's *Factory of the Sun*, presented at the 2015 Venice Biennale, examines the advantages and dangers of images spreading in today's world of massive data exchange. Blending news, documentaries, video games, and internet videos, the work uses light and speed to investigate potential avenues for collective resistance in an age where surveillance is commonplace in a virtual world. The surreal story follows workers whose movements in a motion capture studio are transformed into artificial sunlight. - 17
Free to PlayMovie · 2014 · 75m · DocumentaryThree professional video game players face challenges from their personal lives, families, and the demands of real life as they compete in a $1,000,000 tournament with the potential to transform their futures.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9 - 18
Branching PathsMovie · 2016 · 83mBranching Paths explores the world of independent games in Japan, focusing on the developers, publishers, and those drawn to the scene.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 19
Atari: Game OverMovie · 2014 · 66m · DocumentaryThis Xbox Originals documentary investigates the downfall of Atari, focusing on the enduring mystery of the "Great Video Game Burial of 1983." The story goes that millions of unsold E.T. game cartridges were buried in the desert, but the film seeks to uncover the truth behind the legend.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 20
Let's Play Live: The DocumentaryMovie · 2015 · 27mThis film examines the rising popularity of Let's Play videos and explores how the blending of video games and online communities is changing the landscape of entertainment, traditionally dominated by established musicians.IMDb 7.1TMDB 8.2 - 21
Minecraft: The Story of MojangMovie · 2012 · 104m · DocumentaryMinecraft: The Story of Mojang documents the first year of the company's rapid rise to global prominence, as its game captivated millions of players worldwide. Through perspectives from industry leaders, journalists, influential figures, and dedicated fans, the film captures a pivotal moment in the history of a truly unique success story.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 22
Game On! The Unauthorized History of Video GamesMovie · 2006 · 89mCNBC explores the evolution of the video game industry, starting with early experiments like a tennis game on an oscilloscope and following the rise of Atari and arcade games in the early 1980s. The program traces the history of electronic games to encompass the modern era of Nintendo, Playstation, and Xbox consoles.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 23
Indie Game: The MovieMovie · 2012 · 103m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the intense experiences of video game developers as they bring their creations to life and release them to players worldwide. It’s a story about the process of making video games, fundamentally exploring the act of creative expression and the vulnerability inherent in sharing one's work with the public.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 24
All Work All Play: The Pursuit of eSports Glory LiveMovie · 2015 · 90mA global phenomenon is taking shape in the world of video games. Thousands gather in arenas to watch tournaments, while tens of millions more tune in online. The most popular competitive game is played by one percent of the world's population. *All Work All Play* offers an inside look at the rise of eSports, following the journey of top professional gamers as they compete for the Intel Extreme Masters championship.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 25
Video Games Live: Level 2Movie · 2010 · 100mVideo Games Live is a concert event bringing together music from beloved video games. Featuring top orchestras and choirs performing exclusive arrangements alongside video footage, synchronized lighting, soloists, electronic percussion, and live action, it delivers a high-energy entertainment experience. The show connects new audiences with orchestral music while offering a fresh experience for gamers and non-gamers alike. It combines the power of a symphony orchestra with the excitement of a rock concert, enhanced by video game technology and audience interaction, all synchronized with cutting-edge visuals and lighting.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1 - 26
Gameplay: The Story of the Videogame RevolutionMovie · 2015 · 90mThis documentary explores the history of video games, tracing the evolution from early hits like 'Pong', 'Pac-Man', and 'Mario' to modern blockbusters such as 'Call of Duty' and 'Grand Theft Auto'. It examines the industry's origins, its key creators, and its future direction.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 27
Video Game Invasion: The History of a Global ObsessionMovie · 2004 · 90mThis documentary explores the multi-billion dollar video game industry and the people who shaped it. Decades after its initial release, the industry has exploded! Hosted by Tony Hawk, the world-renowned skateboarder and creator of popular games like "Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater" and "Tony Hawk’s Underground," VIDEO GAME INVASION offers a comprehensive and engaging look at how video games were created, tracing the evolution of gaming through a variety of titles.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 28
Chasing Ghosts: Beyond the ArcadeMovie · 2007 · 90m · DocumentaryIn 1982, the top players in the video game world offer their perspectives on everything from game controllers to celebrity admirers and the meaning of life itself.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 29
Dungeons & Dragons: A DocumentaryMovie · 2014"Dungeons & Dragons: A Documentary" provides a comprehensive exploration of the game Dungeons & Dragons and its significance as a cultural force. The film examines the game's origins, its enduring popularity, and its impact on society. A uniquely engaging experience with widespread and understated influence. - 30
Surviving IndieMovie · 2016 · 97mA group of independent game developers share their experiences with the challenges, setbacks, and successes of creating games, exploring the essence of being an "indie" creator and the nature of creativity itself.IMDb 6.6 - 31
From Bedrooms to Billions: The Amiga YearsMovie · 2016 · 152mThis documentary examines the impact of the Commodore Amiga computer. It explores how the Amiga revolutionized video game development, music production, and publishing, fundamentally altering the landscape of the video game industry.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 32
The King of Kong: A Fistful of QuartersMovie · 2007 · 83m · DocumentaryA quiet arcade champion faces off against the legendary Donkey Kong world record holder in an epic gaming battle that captures the attention of the entire industry. For two decades, Billy Mitchell has held the top score, considered unbeatable. But Steve Wiebe appears and claims to have surpassed him. Mitchell refuses to lose his title, and the two compete fiercely for the ultimate recognition as the true King of Kong.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 33
The Making of Fallout 3: The Vault-Tec FilesMovie · 2008 · 39mThis documentary chronicles the creation of Fallout 3, the highly anticipated third game in the popular post-apocalyptic roleplaying series. Featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and concept art, the film was exclusively released to those who purchased the game's collector's edition.TMDB 8.0 - 34Bang the MachineMovie · 2002 · 80mThis documentary captures an exhibition tournament in Japan, highlighting the contrasting approaches to gaming between American and Japanese cultures.IMDb 8.2
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Second SkinMovie · 2009 · 94mSecond Skin explores how online virtual worlds have profoundly changed the lives of three groups of computer gamers. The rise of Massively Multiplayer Online games (MMOs) has created virtual spaces where millions can interact at once. With 50 million players globally, half of them now identify as addicted to these games.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 36Infinite Lives: The Road to E3Movie · 2010 · 93mInfinite Lives: The Road to E3 is an independently-produced documentary following four friends from the American Midwest on their 2300-mile, week-long road trip to E3, the major gaming industry expo. Founded in 1995, E3 showcases the latest and greatest in gaming. Over three years, the film documents the history of the expo and the planning and execution of the cross-country journey undertaken by the four gamers. From Colorado Springs to Utah to Los Angeles and Albuquerque, the film captures the American Southwest while also revealing the fast-paced atmosphere of the E3 show floor. Shot with handheld high definition consumer camcorders, the film offers a fly-on-the-wall experience in high resolution.IMDb 7.4TMDB 5.2
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The Art of the GameMovie · 2014"The Art of the Game" follows a group of college students vying for jobs in the growing video game industry, documenting a shift in popular entertainment. The film weaves together their stories to explore the passion, creativity, and evolving artistic culture within interactive entertainment, often misunderstood by the wider public.IMDb 7.5 - 38
Inside the Dragon's LairMovie · 2013Inside The Dragon's Lair explores the history of the groundbreaking video game, Dragon's Lair. The film offers a detailed look at the extensive creation of this revolutionary title, which utilized laserdisc technology to amaze audiences when it launched in 1983 and fundamentally altered video gaming. The documentary traces the game's journey from its original idea to its various releases over the years. It includes interviews with the game's creators, Don Bluth, Gary Goldman, John Pomeroy, and Rick Dyer, as well as artists, programmers, collectors, technical experts, and devoted fans who shaped the game’s legacy. - 39
GTFO: Get The F% OutMovie · 2015 · 76mFollowing a 2012 incident of public sexual harassment, *GTFO* examines the $20 billion video game industry's pervasive issues with discrimination and misogyny. As the gaming community becomes more diverse each year, differing values have created conflict, and women face escalating harassment – from insults to threats of violence. Through interviews with game developers, journalists, and experts, *GTFO* offers a detailed look at the industry, exploring both the underlying causes and the human factors driving harassment. *GTFO* initiates a crucial discussion about the future of video games.IMDb 4.4TMDB 5.1 - 40
Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly StoryMovie · 2010 · 88m"Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story" explores how the iconic board game achieved global popularity, focusing on the diverse individuals who compete to become the Monopoly World Champion.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 41
Indie Game: Life AfterMovie · 2014 · 110m"Indie Game: The Movie" continues with "Life After," a short film anthology offering updates on the filmmakers featured in the original documentary, alongside stories of new game creators. This collection features over 100 minutes of fresh footage.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.2 - 42Digital GenerationsMovie · 2010 · 80mThis documentary explores the evolution of the online community surrounding Nadeo's racing game, Trackmania. Through interviews with developers and players of diverse ages, the film examines the profound impact Trackmania has had on their lives.
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League of Legends: Learning to LeadMovie · 2017 · 66m"League of Legends: Learning to Lead" explores the rising popularity of the competitive game as an e-sport. Players from university students to professional gamers discuss their perspectives on League of Legends and the strategies they employ. The film examines the risks players take to succeed professionally. Filmed at the UK's largest e-sports competition at Insomnia Festival, the documentary details the complexities of gameplay, emphasizing the process of learning, participation, and personal growth within and beyond the game itself. - 44
Thank You for PlayingMovie · 2015 · 80mFor two years, Ryan and Amy Green have been developing *That Dragon, Cancer*, a video game based on their son Joel's battle with a serious illness. Documenting the family's experience during the game's creation and Joel’s ongoing treatment, David Osit and Malika Zouhali-Worrall offer a deeply moving portrayal of the joys and sorrows of raising a child with a terminal condition.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 45
Pixel PoetryMovie · 2014 · 70mPixel Poetry is a documentary film exploring how video games have shaped progressive creative culture. The film uses common debates surrounding video games – such as whether they are art or influence violent behavior – as a starting point. It analyzes often-misunderstood arguments about art and technological progress to offer a fresh perspective on the evolving significance of video games.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 46
Memoirs of a Spectrum AddictMovie · 2017 · 123m"Memoirs of a Spectrum Addict" is a documentary film exploring the ZX Spectrum computer – its history, creators, games, and devoted fanbase. The film is a comprehensive tribute to the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, featuring never-before-seen interviews with key figures in the industry and stories from people whose lives were shaped by this iconic machine.IMDb 6.9TMDB 8.0 - 47
Good GameMovie · 2014 · 73mThe members of the Evil Geniuses Starcraft 2 team are talented and driven, but they have to fight for a place in the world of professional video gaming. *Good Game* follows the team as they learn that a single mistake could destroy their aspirations.IMDb 6.0TMDB 7.0 - 48
Made for Play: Board Games and Modern IndustryMovie · 2013 · 43mIn Jettingen, Germany, Ludo Fact is a leading manufacturer of board and card games worldwide. This documentary follows the journey of a board game from initial concept to the shelves of stores and homes. It reveals the complete manufacturing process, showcasing the technology, machinery, intricate steps, and the hundreds of people who contribute to producing one game. The film aims to highlight the considerable time, effort, and investment behind every high-quality board game that reaches consumers. Creating fun is a demanding business!TMDB 4.8 - 49
The Art of PlayingMovie · 2014 · 27mIndependent video game developers are expanding the possibilities of storytelling, music, animation, and design. Texas has the second-largest number of game companies in the United States. Alongside large companies such as EA and Blizzard, a smaller but dedicated community of independent developers and artists are creating games for home computers.IMDb 5.0TMDB 7.0 - 50
I Am Street FighterMovie · 2012 · 72mTo celebrate the 25th anniversary of their iconic fighting game, Street Fighter, Capcom wanted something truly special. AREA 5 created a documentary that travels to three countries and spans over two decades. It tells the story of how this game not only created an entire genre but profoundly impacted a generation of people.IMDb 5.3TMDB 6.0 - 51
Gaming the Real WorldMovie · 2016 · 72mCan video games help shape the future of our cities? As urban areas face growing populations, can games empower residents, especially young people, to participate in planning and improving their own communities? Games are now being used to design and simulate cities, democratizing urban planning. Cities are becoming a hub for digital innovation, sparking a widespread discussion about how they should evolve. We follow three game companies – Mojang, the creators of Minecraft; Paradox Interactive, makers of Cities: Skylines; and José Sanches with his indie game Block’hood – as they explore the intersection of urban planning and gaming. What will our cities look like in the years to come?IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.8 - 52Stream DreamMovie · 2014 · 50mDirector Rob Van Alkemade (of "Training for the Apocalypse" and "What Would Jesus Buy") explores the rise of YouTube and Twitch streamers like PewDiePie, Smosh, and Angry Joe – personalities who have transformed from bedroom entertainers to major media figures with Disney representation. The film examines how these streamers have reshaped how audiences discover new games, impacting both large publishers and independent developers. It also looks at the connection between these streamers and a new generation of global indie game creators. Will success change the nature of this burgeoning gaming media landscape?IMDb 7.3
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Beep: A Documentary History of Game SoundMovie · 2016 · 115m"Beep" is a documentary exploring the history of game sounds, from Victorian arcades to modern video games, encompassing mechanical games and pinball as well. The film is part of a larger project that includes webisodes, DVD extras, a book, and online resources available on the Beep website.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.5 - 54
The Video Game RevolutionMovie · 2004 · 120mThis film explores the global popularity of video games and their profound impact on technology and popular culture.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 55
Grounded: Making The Last of UsMovie · 2013 · 85m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the making of a game, celebrating the challenges of pioneering something entirely new. Without established paths or instructions, the team relied on repeated experimentation and setbacks to forge their vision. It's the story of a diverse group – artists, musicians, programmers, writers, actors, filmmakers, testers, and a dedicated UI designer – who collaborated, pushing each other to create something extraordinary.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6
