In today’s fast-paced world, blending your favorite hobbies into one enjoyable experience isn’t just efficient; it’s a lot of fun too. Whether you’re making your way through game levels, gathering resources, or just waiting for a match to kick off, having a good movie or show playing in the background can really enhance your gaming sessions. Here’s a well-thought-out list of 20 movies to watch while playing video games. Each suggestion includes its IMDb rating along with a personal touch to ensure you get the most out of both experiences.
Our Top 20 Pick of Movies and Shows to Watch With One Eye While the Other is on the Game Screen
1. The Office (US) – Comfort Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 9.0
“The Office” is the perfect show to have on in the background. The mockumentary style and easy-going humor make it just right for gaming. I can’t count how many nights I spent grinding in RPGs while Michael Scott’s hilarious moments unfolded on another screen—it was the ideal blend of laughs and a laid-back vibe.
2. Parks and Recreation – Wholesome Fun
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.6
“Parks and Recreation” has that same feel as “The Office,” with a cast of quirky characters and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Leslie Knope’s endless enthusiasm is contagious and can definitely boost your mood during those long gaming sessions. It’s the kind of show that’s easy to watch without demanding all your focus.
3. Stranger Things – Nostalgic Thrills
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.7
If you love a mix of adventure and nostalgia, “Stranger Things” is definitely one of the top picks for movies to watch while playing video games. With its captivating storyline and 80s vibes, it creates a delightful backdrop as you dive into your gaming sessions. I really found it fitting when playing retro-inspired games, where the blend of different eras brought an extra layer of fun.
4. Brooklyn Nine-Nine – Lighthearted Crime Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.4
“Brooklyn Nine-Nine” is a fantastic blend of humor and crime-fighting. The quick episodes and witty plots make it an ideal companion for fast-paced games. Whether I was zooming around in cars or taking on enemies, the vibe of the Nine-Nine always kept things upbeat and enjoyable.
5. Friends – Timeless Classic
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.9
“Friends” is a series that never goes out of style. Its familiarity and humor create a comforting atmosphere that’s perfect for gaming sessions. I often find myself laughing at Joey’s hilarious moments while trying to get through tricky game levels. It feels just like hanging out with old friends.
6. Breaking Bad – Intense Drama
Dive into the intense drama of Breaking Bad for an elevated gaming experience
🟨IMDb Rating: 9.5
If you’re a gamer who loves a touch of intensity, “Breaking Bad” offers a riveting storyline that makes it one of the best movies to watch while playing video games. Walter White’s incredible transformation is captivating enough to hold your attention without being overly distracting. It’s a perfect match for strategy games where you can really take your time.
7. Rick and Morty – Sci-Fi Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 9.2
“Rick and Morty” mixes science fiction with a healthy dose of dark humor, making it a perfect pick for fans of sci-fi games. The show’s outlandish adventures and clever jokes really align well with games that aren’t too heavy on storytelling. I’ve always loved their wild interdimensional journeys while diving into alien landscapes in my own games.
8. The Mandalorian – Star Wars Adventure
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.8
“The Mandalorian” truly brings the Star Wars galaxy to life, introducing fresh stories and characters. Its episodic structure and breathtaking visuals make it an excellent match for space-themed games. I’ve found that watching Mando’s escapades while navigating my own spaceship in games creates an incredibly immersive experience.
9. The Simpsons – Animated Satire
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.7
“The Simpsons” is a long-running classic that delivers endless entertainment, making it one of the best movies to watch while playing video games. Its satirical take on everyday life is perfect for background viewing. Plus, the show’s episodic format means you can easily dip in and out without missing much, which is great for those gaming marathons.
10. Futurama – Futuristic Fun
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.4
“Futurama” perfectly combines humor and sci-fi, making it both engaging and easy to enjoy. It’s setting in the future pairs nicely with games that focus on space exploration or advanced technology. The hilarious antics of Fry, Bender, and Leela create a charming backdrop as you navigate through new worlds.
11. The Big Bang Theory – Geeky Humor
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.1
If you’re a gamer who loves the geek lifestyle, “The Big Bang Theory” is a must-watch. The show’s clever humor, along with its science and gaming references, makes it both relatable and one-of-a-kind. I’ve often found myself laughing out loud at Sheldon’s quirks while I’m in the zone with my own gaming strategies.
12. Community – College Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.5
“Community” follows a quirky group of misfits at a community college, blending humor and heartfelt moments to create one of the best movies to watch while playing video games. The show’s unique episodes and hilarious characters make it a fun addition to any gaming hangout. Whether I was building worlds or solving puzzles, the antics of this study group always kept me entertained.
13. How I Met Your Mother – Romantic Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.3
“How I Met Your Mother” does a fantastic job of mixing humor and romance, making it a great choice for some easy-going gaming. The way the story unfolds and the unforgettable characters create a cozy atmosphere. Ted’s journey to find love really reminds me of my own adventures in games, resulting in a charming connection.
14. Archer – Spy Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.6
“Archer” is an animated show that fuses thrilling spy action with witty humor. The rapid-fire episodes are just right for games that demand quick reflexes. I really enjoyed how Archer’s outrageous missions synced up perfectly with my gaming adventures.
15. Scrubs – Medical Comedy-Drama
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.4
“Scrubs” delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of laughs and genuine moments, all set in a hospital—making it one of the best movies to watch while playing video games. The way it balances humor and drama keeps it engaging as background entertainment. I loved following JD and Turk’s adventures while tackling my own virtual missions.
16. Sherlock – Modern Detective Drama
🟨IMDb Rating: 9.1
“Sherlock” offers a fresh take on the timeless tales of Sherlock Holmes. With its complex storylines and outstanding performances, the show draws you in without being too much of a distraction. It’s an ideal choice for times when you want to relax and dive into a captivating mystery.
17. Doctor Who – Sci-Fi Adventure
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.6
“Doctor Who” is an iconic sci-fi series that’s been around for ages, delivering countless adventures across time and space. Its episodic format and captivating storylines create a perfect backdrop for gaming. I’ve frequently caught myself diving into new worlds in games while the Doctor is off having his own adventures on screen.
18. The Great British Bake Off – Culinary Delight
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.6
If you’re looking for a laid-back backdrop for your gaming sessions, “The Great British Bake Off” is one of the best movies to watch while playing video games. This show offers a calming and enjoyable experience with its fun baking challenges and endearing contestants. It pairs perfectly with casual games, allowing you to kick back and appreciate the delicious culinary masterpieces on display.
19. Adventure Time – Whimsical Animation
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.6
“Adventure Time” is an animated show that uniquely combines whimsy and adventure. The vibrant world and creative stories really make it enjoyable to watch while playing. Finn and Jake’s adventures often remind me of my own gaming quests, adding to the overall delight.
20. BoJack Horseman – Dark Comedy
🟨IMDb Rating: 8.7
“BoJack Horseman” delivers a distinctive mix of dark humor and heartfelt storytelling. The depth and wit of the show create a captivating backdrop for gaming. I found the contrast between BoJack’s personal struggles and the challenges I face in-game to be both insightful and entertaining.
Conclusion
The Best movies to watch while playing video games and the series mentioned here stand out as some of the finest to watch while diving into your favorite video games. If you have a go-to show that you think deserves a spot on this list, feel free to let us know!
1. What are the best types of games to play while watching movies or shows?
Games that don’t need your full attention, like idle games, RPGs that involve lengthy grinding, or simulation games, are perfect for this. They let you dive into the story of your movie or show without losing important gameplay moments.
2. Can watching movies or shows while gaming affect my performance?
It really depends on the game type and how well you can juggle tasks. For laid-back games, enjoying both can be a nice, relaxing experience. But if you’re playing something competitive or fast-paced, it’s better to focus entirely on the game to keep your performance sharp.
3. How can I set up my screen to watch movies or shows while gaming?
The best setup is using dual monitors. You can keep your game on one screen while watching your movie or show on the other. If that’s not an option, picture-in-picture mode is great if your monitor or TV has it, or you can always use a tablet or phone to watch the secondary content.
