An analysis of major entertainment franchises that experienced unprecedented success, cultural dominance, or significant revenue spikes between 2020 and 2022. This list highlights how streaming models, delayed releases, and shifted consumer habits benefited specific brands across gaming, film, and television.
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FromSoftware's action RPG shattered sales records shortly after its February 2022 release, becoming one of the best-selling games of all time. Its massive critical acclaim and expansive open-world design captivated players isolated at home, driving significant industry momentum.
Adapted from the hit video game, this HBO drama became a cultural phenomenon in early 2023, though it capitalized on pandemic-era streaming habits and high-quality TV production. It demonstrated the immense value of IP adaptation in an era of scarcity for premium content.
Released in May 2021, this survival horror title benefited from delayed PC ports that allowed the PlayStation version to dominate charts initially. Its strong narrative and gameplay mechanics maintained high engagement as gamers sought immersive, long-form experiences during lockdowns.
Minecraft consistently remained the top-selling game throughout the pandemic period, with player counts reaching all-time highs. The game's sandbox nature provided essential social connection and creative outlet for families and individuals stuck indoors for months at a time.
Released in late 2020, this entry revitalized the iconic shooter franchise with a compelling campaign and robust multiplayer modes. It capitalized on the surge in competitive gaming and online social interaction as people sought digital ways to connect during social distancing.
While developed earlier, Among Us exploded in popularity during 2020 as a digital party game that allowed friends to socialize remotely. Its simple mechanics and social deduction gameplay made it a staple for streaming platforms and remote friend groups seeking interactive entertainment.
EA Sports' annual soccer release saw strong sales despite mixed critical reviews, driven by the FIFA Ultimate Team mode. The game provided a persistent online hub for millions of players, reinforcing the franchise's dominance in the sports simulation market during the era.
Although launch issues plagued its initial December 2020 release, the project was a major pandemic-era event that generated massive anticipation. The franchise regained significant cultural traction post-launch, illustrating the long-tail impact of high-profile releases during the global health crisis.
Announced and developed during the pandemic, this 2022 release concluded the Norse saga with record-breaking pre-orders. The delay allowed for polishing and marketing momentum to build, resulting in one of the most commercially successful launches in gaming history.
Released in 2021, this cooperative platformer became a surprise hit due to its unique requirement for two players. It resonated with partners, friends, and families looking for shared, high-quality interactive experiences to enjoy together during lockdowns.
Launched in November 2020 as a PS5 showcase title, it received universal acclaim for its story and performance. The timing capitalized on console upgrade cycles and provided a seamless, high-fidelity experience that defined the next-generation gaming landscape.
Delivered in April 2020, this remake offered a tense, linear action experience that appealed to horror fans. Its release provided a significant boost for Capcom's digital sales, leveraging the growing mainstream acceptance of survival horror genres.
Released in late 2021, Halo Infinite's free-to-play multiplayer model attracted a large player base despite initial technical criticisms. The franchise maintained its relevance in the competitive shooter space, serving as a flagship title for Xbox ecosystems during the pandemic.
The 2020 visual remake served as a launch window exclusive that showcased the PS5's capabilities. It attracted both new players and veterans, proving that classic franchises could be revitalized with modern technology, driving console sales and engagement.
Square Enix's MMORPG saw a massive surge in subscriptions during the pandemic as players sought persistent online communities. The release of major expansions and free trial expansions brought in millions of new users who found lasting engagement in the world of Hydaelyn.
Although released in September 2019, its home video and streaming success extended well into the pandemic period. The film benefited from delayed theatrical runs and became a top rental title, sustaining the horror franchise's relevance in digital distribution.
Released on Netflix in September 2021, this Korean survival drama became the most-watched series in the platform's history. It captured the global zeitgeist by combining tense competition with social commentary, resonating deeply with audiences experiencing collective stress and isolation.
Guy Ritchie's action-comedy series premiered on Netflix in 2022, serving as a spin-off to his popular film. It leveraged the streaming boom to reach a wider audience, demonstrating how film franchises could successfully transition to television during the pandemic era.
Launching in August 2022, this Game of Thrones prequel broke viewing records on HBO Max. The pandemic-era buildup and reliance on streaming platforms ensured a massive global launch, proving the enduring power of the fantasy genre in serialized television.
Released in March 2020, this Nintendo Switch title became a symbol of the pandemic era with its relaxed, community-focused gameplay. It provided a vital sense of normalcy and social interaction for millions of players, driving unprecedented hardware sales for Nintendo.