Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has shared an unexpected addition to his list of favorite titles, revealing that he plays Angry Birds constantly. Speaking with IGN at San Diego Comic Con 2026 during a celebration for the 20th anniversary of Pan's Labyrinth, del Toro opened up about the video games that have impacted him over the years.
Quick Facts
- Interview Location: San Diego Comic Con 2026
- Key Game Discussed: Angry Birds (mobile)
- Other Games Mentioned: Journey, Left 4 Dead, Monument Valley, Death Stranding, Shadow of the Colossus, Bioshock, Resident Evil 2, and Dead Cells
Del Toro's Surprise Mobile Favorite
While the acclaimed director is known for dark, atmospheric works, his most surprising favorite game features bright colors and an upbeat theme song rather than brooding themes. Del Toro admitted to the outlet, "Every day of my life, every moment I have free, I'm still playing Angry Birds. I'm really good at it."
Other Titles That Impacted the Filmmaker
Alongside his daily mobile habit, del Toro discussed several other titles that left an impression on him. He shared that Death Stranding made him cry—noting his own starring role in the game—while Shadow of the Colossus made him introspective, and Bioshock offered a world he could get lost in for ages. He also cited Journey, Left 4 Dead, and Monument Valley.
On the more challenging side of his gaming diet, del Toro revealed himself to be a massive fan of Dead Cells, though he offered a lighthearted plea to the developers for an adjusted version. "I just hate respawning, because you only get about 35 levels and then you start again," he explained, asking developers to craft a version without respawning for older players.
IGN's full extended interview with Guillermo del Toro is scheduled to be published later this year as part of the IGN30 Icons series.