A John Wick Side-Scrolling Brawler Is Long Overdue

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A John Wick Side-Scrolling Brawler Is Long Overdue

Key Takeaways

  • Side-scrolling, shoot-em-up adaptation for John Wick franchise could be lucrative.
  • Pixelated, 2D format is ideal for toning down gore and improving gameplay for broader appeal.
  • Incorporating beat-up elements and diverse characters can enhance the game experience.

As a lifelong fan of both action movies and video games, I can’t help but feel that the John Wick franchise has been crying out for a side-scrolling beat-em-up adaptation. The films themselves often feel like they were crafted with the intent to be turned into a game – the over-the-top action sequences, the countless hordes of enemies, and Keanu Reeves’ impeccable timing all point towards this being the perfect fit.

In the realm of action films, it’s hard to find a series as ripe for a video game transformation as the John Wick films. At times, the combat scenes appear almost indistinguishable from those in video games, with the acrobatic kicks, spins, punches, and intense gunplay. The hyperactive action seems tailor-made for a game in the style of Call of Duty, reminiscent of the 1990s. However, modern gaming trends have led to a decline in these types of games due to market saturation. Yet, the John Wick franchise remains a strong candidate for adaptation.

It’s true that at least one development team has attempted to create a video game based on the “John Wick” movies. However, the game titled “John Wick Hex” didn’t achieve significant success, either critically or commercially. Despite some good concepts, such as allowing players to engage in action-packed scenarios and use melee attacks when desired, the game fell short by making the player overthink too much. Players had to strategize their movements, timing, and bullet dodging, which was a bit too complex. The strategy wasn’t engaging enough either. If a new developer were to take on this challenge and develop a side-scrolling shoot-em-up beat-em-up game based on the “John Wick” movies, they could potentially create a successful game if they incorporate fresh elements into the mix.

Arcade Action Seems Best For John Wick GameA John Wick Side-Scrolling Brawler Is Long Overdue

Transforming John Wick into a 2D, pixelated setting serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it softens the graphic violence that is characteristic of the movies, making them more suitable for audiences who may be sensitive to intense bloodshed or violence – which is a key aspect that contributes to the appeal of these films for a particular demographic. Secondly, by placing him in an unrealistic setting, it lessens some of the gore, grotesqueness, and gravity associated with the relentless killing sprees carried out by the Keanu Reeves character and other characters within this universe as depicted in the four main films, spinoffs, and future projects.

The series is one that doesn’t seem to have an end.

The series never seems to run out, offering numerous possibilities and approaches for playing this game. It boasts a versatile structure that accommodates multiple environments within its side-scrolling format. Additionally, due to its pixelated, 2D graphics, it provides more room for exaggeration without being overly dramatic or intense like some movies can be.

Over time, numerous brawling-style video games have emerged, revitalizing the gaming genre which thrived during the arcade game boom. With multiple games appearing over the years, it opens up a wealth of possibilities for integrating concepts from the John Wick film series.

Characters might have the option to wield melee weapons for navigation and combat against successive hordes of enemies. Additionally, they could come across an assortment of firearms to eliminate foes, which may be found dropped by common enemies or obtained from other sources as players advance through each level.

One way to rephrase this in a more natural and easy-to-read manner could be: There are numerous possibilities for creating a side-scrolling beat-em-up game based on “John Wick” that would instantly draw players into the video game world, especially after watching any of the movies or spinoffs since John’s puppy was first killed by those ruthless mobsters, making them realize they had messed with the wrong man.

This Franchise Deserves Another Try

A John Wick Side-Scrolling Brawler Is Long Overdue

In the world of John Wick, there are numerous intriguing characters that could translate exceptionally well into a video game setting. Contrary to belief, creating a game based on such films doesn’t always necessitate extreme realism. Instead, designing a game with a style reminiscent of the classic arcade game, The Simpsons, might surprisingly offer a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Additionally, one notable aspect is that these types of games can be enjoyed in short bursts. For instance, games such as those based on Scott Pilgrim can be played whenever a desire arises, allowing you to complete a level and then take a break. You might even pause the game, turn it off, and opt to watch another John Wick film instead.

There have been reports that there is a big-budget John Wick game being made, but that sounds exactly like the kind of game a side-scrolling beat-em-up wouldn’t be. There might be money getting poured into something where players step into the role of Wick, but that might actually be the kind of game that is really going to catch on. It in fact, sounds like kind of video game adaptation that is a little too serious and takes itself too seriously. There are certainly some people who will decide that’s what they’re looking for.

Instead of focusing on replicating movies, other games might find greater success by offering players the opportunity to enter a level and engage in a fun, wholesome, cartoonish fight against numerous enemies. Games that strive too closely to emulate their film counterparts often fall short. A unique approach for a John Wick game could yield better results.

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2024-10-11 03:04