Netflix’s Splinter Cell: Deathwatch has brought Sam Fisher back into the spotlight. This new adult animated series sees the legendary operative pulled from retirement for a high-stakes mission. If you enjoyed its blend of tactical action and conspiracy, you are in luck. Many other video game adaptations offer similar thrills, from spy missions and stealth operations to complex global plots.
More from the Tom Clancy Universe
For those who enjoyed the tactical espionage of Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, other series based on Tom Clancy’s work provide a similar feel.
Jack Ryan on Prime Video is a great next stop. It follows a CIA analyst who is thrust into the field, uncovering dangerous international conspiracies. Like Sam Fisher, Jack Ryan operates in a world where trust is scarce and the stakes are global. The series is known for its smart plotting and grounded action.
Animated Action and Intrigue
If the animated style of Deathwatch appealed to you, several other shows use the format to bring video game worlds to life with stunning results.
Arcane (Netflix), based on League of Legends, is widely considered one of the best video game adaptations ever made. It combines a deep, emotionally driven story with a unique visual style. The show explores the conflict between the wealthy city of Piltover and the oppressed undercity of Zaun.
Castlevania is another top-tier animated series. This show follows Trevor Belmont as he battles Dracula and his legions in a dark, gothic world. It is known for its complex characters, sharp dialogue, and beautifully choreographed action.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is a fast-paced, stylish anime from Netflix. From the creator of John Wick, the show is a standalone story set in the dangerous Night City. It follows a young street kid who becomes a mercenary, or “edgerunner.” The series is celebrated for its intense action, compelling characters, and heartfelt story.
Assassin’s Creed: The Animated Series is a perfect match for fans of historical stealth action. It delves into the eternal conflict between Assassins and Templars across different time periods. The show features the stealthy parkour and tactical assassinations the game series is famous for.
Live-Action Espionage and Thrillers
For viewers who prefer live-action, several series capture the military and conspiracy elements found in Splinter Cell.
The Terminal List and its prequel, The Terminal List: Dark Wolf (Prime Video), are conspiracy thrillers that share Splinter Cell’s tone. The main series follows Navy SEAL James Reece as he uncovers a sinister plot that led to his team’s ambush. The prequel focuses on a CIA operative building a secret task force. Both are full of action, intrigue, and moral complexity.
Special Ops: Lioness (Paramount+) is a spy thriller about a CIA program that embeds female operatives within the organizations of dangerous targets. The series explores the psychological toll of living a double life, much like the burdens carried by Sam Fisher.
The Americans (Hulu) is a critically acclaimed period drama about two Soviet KGB spies posing as an American married couple. The series masterfully portrays the constant tension, secrecy, and personal sacrifice of a life in espionage.
Sci-Fi and Military Action
Fans looking for more large-scale military science fiction will find familiar themes in these adaptations.
Halo (Paramount+) brings the massive sci-fi universe to the screen. It follows Master Chief, a enhanced super-soldier, in humanity’s war against the alien Covenant. The series features large-scale battles, advanced technology, and explores the mysteries of the Halo rings.
Psychological Thrillers and Dystopian Drama
For those who appreciated the darker, more psychological elements and moral ambiguity of Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, these shows are excellent choices.
The Last of Us (HBO) is a landmark in video game adaptation. It is a post-apocalyptic story about a smuggler, Joel, tasked with escorting a teenage girl, Ellie, across a dangerous United States. The series is a profound character study about survival, love, and morality.
Homeland (Showtime) is a tense espionage thriller that delves into the psychological cost of intelligence work. The series follows CIA officer Carrie Mathison, who struggles with bipolar disorder as she works to prevent terrorist attacks. Its complex portrayal of loyalty and mental strain will resonate with Splinter Cell fans.
Also Read: Splinter Cell: Deathwatch Ending Explained: Sam Fisher’s Final Mission and a Shocking Betrayal
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