This list ought to be clarified: these are the best games that happen to be based on a movie or television license, and are not necessarily the best incorporation of those elements. This entry exemplifies the second half of that clause, as I'm a bit unfamiliar with the Astro Boy franchise. My familiarity is limited to YouTube-ing a few clips and reading the Wikipedia page, so I'm far from an expert. What drew me to this game was when I learned that it was developed by legendary game-maker Treasure. Founded by former employees of Konami during the time it made Castlevania and Contra, the company is revered amongst critics. And after playing a game like Astro Boy for the GBA, you'll understand why.
Creating a game based on a fairly standard genre that's been done an enormous amount of times before is easy. But Treasure managed to make Astro Boy a truly unique experience. By incorporating only mild RPG and exploration elements, the game becomes greatly diversified. It's a subtle touch that elevates the game to a level of sublimity. Like a top chef adding miniscule amounts of the right spices to create an amazing meal, Treasure not only knows what elements work, but where they work and the right amount to be used. Supported by great graphics, sound effects and music, the game manages to elevate above its license and into the realm of classic games.
