How the John Wick Video Game Earns Revenue

As a longtime fan of the John Wick franchise, I was thrilled when the first official video game, John Wick Hex, was announced. Developed by Bithell Games and released in October 2019, this tactical role-playing game aimed to capture the essence of the films’ signature “gun-fu” style. 

Set as a prequel to the movies, it allowed players to step into the shoes of the legendary assassin, John Wick, navigating through strategic combat scenarios. The game’s unique timeline-based combat system and stylized art direction garnered positive reviews, with Metacritic scoring it 74 out of 100 based on 53 reviews.

Despite its critical acclaim, the game’s commercial performance was modest. As of mid-2025, John Wick Hex had an estimated revenue of approximately $280,000. This figure reflects its sales across various platforms, including Steam, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One. However, it’s worth noting that the game was delisted from all digital storefronts in July 2025 due to expiring licensing agreements. While existing owners retain access, new purchases are no longer possible. This move underscores the challenges faced by licensed game development company, where intellectual property rights can significantly impact a game’s availability and revenue potential.

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In this blog post, we’ll delve into the various revenue streams associated with the John Wick video game, examining how it generated income through direct sales, licensing deals, and its role within the broader franchise ecosystem. By understanding these revenue channels, we can gain insights into the financial dynamics of licensed video games and their place in the entertainment industry.

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Revenue Streams of the ‘John Wick’ Video Game

The John Wick video game earns money in a few different ways. Let’s break it down simply:

1. Game Sales (Digital and Physical Copies)

First, the game makes money when people buy it. You can buy the game online, like on Steam or PlayStation, or in stores as a physical copy. Each time someone buys the game, the developers make some money.

2. DLC (Downloadable Content) and Expansions

After the game is out, the developers can add more content for players to enjoy. This could be new game levels designs, characters, or missions. This extra content is sold as DLC (Downloadable Content), and it helps the game make more money after the initial release.

3. In-Game Purchases (Microtransactions)

Some games let you buy little extras while you’re playing. These are called microtransactions. For example, you might buy special outfits or upgrades for your character, or maybe cool weapons. These in-game purchases can add up, helping the game earn more money.

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In-Game Purchases and Microtransactions

In the John Wick video game, players can buy extra items while playing, known as in-game purchases. These items are things that help players customize their experience or get cool upgrades during the game.

Types of Microtransactions

• Skins: These are special looks for the characters or weapons. For example, you might buy a new outfit for John Wick or a new design for his gun.
• Weapons: Players can buy special weapons that aren’t available in the regular game. These weapons can make it more fun to play and give a little advantage.
• Customizations: These could include things like changing the colors of your character’s outfit or adding new tattoos. Customizations help players make the game feel more personal and unique.
  

How In-Game Purchases Enhance the Gaming Experience

In-game purchases help make the game more fun by offering extra options that let players express themselves. For example, if you really like a particular weapon or outfit, you can buy it to make your gameplay feel special. 

These purchases also allow players to try out new things that aren’t included in the main game, making it feel like there’s always something new to discover. While they aren’t necessary to play, in-game purchases add excitement and variety, giving players more ways to enjoy the game.

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Downloadable Content (DLC) and Expansions

The Role of DLC in Adding New Content

DLC, or Downloadable Content, is a big way the John Wick video game keeps players engaged long after its initial release. DLC adds new features to the game, such as extra levels, missions, or special storylines. By offering DLC, the developers can keep the game fresh, giving players more content to enjoy. This makes players want to keep playing, even after they’ve completed the main game, and it’s a way to keep them coming back for more.

How Expansions Boost Long-Term Revenue

Expansions are a special type of DLC that adds even bigger things to the game, like new characters, levels, or exciting missions. These expansions make the game feel new again, encouraging players to spend more time in the John Wick world. Since expansions are usually sold separately, they provide a steady stream of revenue even after the game’s initial release. As long as the expansions are interesting and offer new adventures, players are more likely to buy them, ensuring that the game continues to bring in money for a long time.

The Impact of Special Edition DLCs and Exclusivity

Some DLCs are special editions that offer extra content for players who buy them. These editions might include rare items, unique characters, or bonus levels that are only available for a limited time or through certain platforms. This kind of exclusivity makes the DLC more attractive, as players feel they’re getting something special that others can’t easily access. By making certain content exclusive, the game encourages players to buy the DLC quickly, which helps generate more revenue in a shorter time.

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Partnerships and Licensing

How Partnerships with Brands Boost Revenue

Partnerships with other brands, like clothing companies or popular merchandise makers, can significantly increase the revenue of the John Wick video game. For example, the game can be tied to merchandise like shirts, jackets, or even action figures. When the John Wick brand is used on these products, it reaches a larger audience, including fans who may not play the game but are loyal to the movies. This kind of partnership helps bring in money from fans in multiple ways, both through the game and through physical products.

Licensing the ‘John Wick’ Brand for Cross-Promotions

Licensing is another way the John Wick brand makes money. It means the game’s brand or characters can be used in other areas, like the movies or special merchandise. For example, tie-ins with the John Wick movies allow fans to experience the game and the films together. This creates a bigger connection between the game and the broader John Wick world, encouraging moviegoers to try the game and game players to watch the movies. Such cross-promotions expand the audience for both, boosting sales and increasing overall revenue.

Special Collaborations That Increase Exposure and Revenue

Collaborations with other big names or well-known companies also help boost exposure and revenue. For instance, special in-game events featuring well-known brands, like exclusive John Wick items or features, can draw attention to the game. Additionally, the game might partner with events or promotions, like gaming conventions or special sales, to reach even more fans. These collaborations not only increase visibility but also provide fans with unique experiences, making them more likely to spend money on the game or its merchandise.

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Critical Reception and Revenue Impact

How Positive Reviews and Gamer Loyalty Affect Sales

Positive reviews play a huge role in the success of any video game, including John Wick Hex. When players and critics alike praise the game for its unique style and fun gameplay, more people are likely to purchase it. Reviews from well-known gaming websites, streamers, or influencers can significantly boost the game’s reputation. Gamer loyalty also comes into play. When players enjoy a game, they’re more likely to share their experience with friends and keep playing over time. Loyal fans often return to buy DLCs or expansions, further driving sales and long-term revenue.

The Importance of Maintaining a Strong Fan Base and Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Having a strong fan base is crucial for a game’s ongoing success. Fans who love John Wick are likely to spread the word about the game to others, either online or in person. Word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly powerful because people trust their friends or favorite content creators more than traditional ads. If fans consistently share their positive experiences, it helps build hype around the game, leading to increased sales, especially when the game is part of a franchise like John Wick with a dedicated following.

The Role of Community Engagement in Boosting Revenue

Community engagement is another key factor in sustaining revenue. A game that actively communicates with its community through social media, forums, or in-game events builds a strong relationship with its players. Engaged communities are more likely to support the game with in-game purchases, participate in special events, or even promote the game through fan art or content. This sense of belonging makes players feel connected to the game, leading to more loyal customers who continue to contribute to its revenue through purchases and positive promotion.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the John Wick video game generates revenue through multiple strategies. Game sales on platforms like Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation, along with revenue from DLC, in-game purchases, and microtransactions, keep the game profitable. Partnerships, licensing deals, and collaborations with the movie franchise and merchandise further boost its income. Positive reviews, gamer loyalty, and community engagement also play a huge role in maintaining long-term sales.

The future of revenue generation in gaming looks bright, with opportunities in live services, DLCs, and microtransactions. Keeping players engaged through updates and content releases will ensure ongoing success.

If you’re looking to create a game with similar potential, At Cubix, we can help bring your vision to life and build a game that earns long-term revenue.