Vampire Survivors Animated Series Coming From John Wick, Sonic Creators

Vampire Survivors was a surprise hit after its early access release in December 2021 and gradually blew up over the course of 2022, even coming in near the top of some Game of the Year lists. And while it isn’t the most story-focused game, it is getting its own animated series.

There’s been no word on its release window, where it’ll appear, or who will be starring in it, although Deadline notes that it is being shopped around and writers are currently being pursued.

However, it is being developed with Story Kitchen, which is headed by Dmitri Johnson, co-producer of the Sonic the Hedgehog movies and John Wick writer and creator Derek Kolstad, with consulting from game consulting agency Robot Teddy. Story Kitchen is behind a number of upcoming video game adaptations, such as Tomb Raider, Splinter Cell, It Takes Two, Toe Jam & Earl, Sifu, and Streets of Rage. Luca Galante, founder of developer poncle, spoke about the series and even, strangely (if not cheekily), praised the game’s story.

“The most important thing in Vampire Survivors is the story, so it’s a dream come true to see what started as a little indie game I made on my weekends come to life as an animated TV show,” said Galante. “It’s also great to be partnering up with such experienced and talented people to make the show. I do wonder if they’ve realized that there isn’t a single vampire in Vampire Survivors, though.”

Vampire Survivors is a roguelite game where players attack automatically and gain more and more upgrades, which then makes the combat more chaotic. Many have praised its upgrade loop filled with flashy effects and retro art style, the latter of which appears to draw heavily from Castlevania. It has not only received consistent updates and gained critical acclaim, but has also inspired a whole host of other titles.

Director of Business Development at Robot Teddy Alessandro Bovenzi also talked about expanding the franchise’s lore in this new medium.

“Collaborating with poncle on Vampire Survivors has been a coffin-load of fun,” said Bovenzi. “And now, with Story Kitchen on board, we’re thrilled to be adding even more depth to the world of the undead. We can’t wait to sink our teeth into this project and help bring together this uncanny combination of thrilling storytelling, excellent animation, and undeadly creatures.”