I know Im not the only one who is looking foward to Bioshock Infinite, so to tide me over until the end of March I thought I would review the 2 previous installments in the series. This is my first review so it may be terrible but anyway lets get into Bioshock.
Story: Bioshock is set in the underwater city of Rapture in the 1950's. The protaganist Jack crash lands by a lighthouse which takes him into the city. From the first 5 minutes of this game I was pulled into this incredible world, because Jack is a faceless and largely mute hero he is like a spounge that absorbs the world, events and characters around him. And what great characters they are from the charismatic creator of Rapture Andrew Ryan, the rebel leader Atlas, insane surgeon Steinman, even more insane performer Sander Coen and too many more to mention. These characters and the world are displayed through audio diaries left around Rapture which show the violence and destruction going on in this Utopia. This is due to a drug callled ADAM which has caused people to go insane. Anyway I dont want to say much more in case I spoil anything but Bioshock has a rich, engaging and very memorable story and if like me you enjoy story heavy games you are going to love Bioshock.
Gameplay: Bioshock is a first person shooter so there are a variety of different guns at your disposal. However the genetic changing drug ADAM allows you to develop incredible powers like setting enemies on fire or electrocuting them and much more. The enemy design is great with a variety of splicers (ADAM addicted crazies) and of course the Big Daddies. These lumbering metal men are thrilling and tough to fight and killing them offers you a choice as to whether you kill or save the Little Sisters they are guarding. Killing them will give you more ADAM to get better abilities but saving them will give you less ADAM but more rewards further down the line. This desicion effects the end of the game and is one of the many moral question Bioshock throws at you throughout the 20 or so hour campaign.
Presentation: Even 6 years on Bioshock still holds up visually the brilliant artistic style brings Rapture to light in its twisted distrurbing glory. The lighting effects and music really add to the tone and mood and the voice acting for every character is top notch.
Verdict: I didnt believe the hype about this game for a long time but I was proved so wrong. This is an absolute classic that deserves to be played by everyone. It is intelligent and does not treat the gamer like an idiot by asking moral questions and addressing themes not usually covered in games or even most Hollywood blockbusters. The gameplay is original and exciting and the experiece will stay with you long after you have finished playing.
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