When it comes to video games transmogrifying into feature films, the B-school logic of the MBA studio marketing teams isn’t hard to figure out (think of a boardroom filled with Apprentice winners).

Video games generated nearly $25 billion in 2004, nearly three times more than the revenue generated at the domestic box office. So, goes the thinking, surely we can get gamers to put down their joy sticks and head to the movie theater? But just as millions of Madonna album buyers didn’t transform into millions of ticket buyers for Shanghai Surprise, game fans can’t necessarily be counted on to make Doom or the upcoming Vin Diesel vehicle Hitman instant classics.

Even with the incomparable Bob Hoskins in the cast of Buena Vista’s 1993 release of the mega game Super Mario Bros, the film grossed a meager $21 million. Sony Pics Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within grossed just $32 million after months of hype (and a reported $137 million budget). The success of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider ($131 million in 2001) was the exception not the rule. The 2003 Tomb sequel grossed just $65 million (the film’s reported budget was $95 million).

Fox meanwhile has signed Skip Woods to write Hitman the movie, with Diesel exec-producing and starring. And as with anything else these days, Fox is reportedly hoping that Hitman will become a franchise. Doom opens wide today.