REVIEW – Bioshock Infinite
Bioshock Infinite is a first person shooter video game developed by Irrational Games, and published by 2K Games. Previously known as “Project Icarus” in development, it was released worldwide on Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 platforms March 26. Bioshock Infinite is the third installment in the Bioshock series, and though it is not part of the storyline of previous Bioshock games, it does feature similar gameplay concepts and themes. There was a lot of anticipation for this game title, seeing how the developers made 2007’s Game of the Year Bioshock.
The game takes place during 1912, former Pinkerton agent Booker Dewitt is tasked with a job to bring a mysterious woman named Elizabeth back in order to wipe away all of his debt. However this takes Booker to the floating city of Columbia. At first glance this floating city may look like paradise, but not is all as it seems. Upon meeting Elizabeth, Booker realizes that she is no normal girl. She is locked in this tower and just trying to free her becomes a task, as you come face to face with the Songbird, her guardian, and jailer. Now Booker has to get Elizabeth out of this floating death trap before it is too late.
This game is a mind trip… in a very good way. I love the story for this game, I love when video games keep you involved in a characters backstory and history. As you hear Booker talk about his past and Elizabeth talk about her childhood, you can’t help but feel for these characters. The story is so in depth that it will keep you glued to every detail, and plotline until the very end. The gameplay for this game hasn’t changed much and I’m glad. Wouldn’t fix something that isn’t broke, and with Bioshock Infinite, the gameplay has been kept very similar with Bioshock 2; with guns in one hand, and vigors in the other. Mixing the two in combat can lead you to victory, and the vigors in this game are vastly improved than the previous Bioshock titles. With the Skyhook you can sail on the rails that go throughout the city, to get around obstacles, find cover, or to get the slip on your enemies. Also you can utilize the Skyhook to kill your enemies as well. Not to mention the weapons are just as improved.
More you become involved in the storyline, the more powerful weapons you will have. Good thing too, because the enemies in this game are no joke. Waves of enemies will approach you, and utilizing Elizabeth’s powers you can pull items, weapons, and assistance to take on the opposition. And you will need it when you are dealing with special enemy types such as the Fireman, Crow, Motorized Patriot, and the monstrous Handyman. Sound for this game definitely fits the era. I love that as you walk the streets you can hear some classical music, and when the action picks up, the sound changes to something you can fight to. Even music turns suspenseful during certain scenes, and sad during others.
The graphics and visuals for this game are outstanding! I would say this game has some of the best facial animations in this year’s current games, right next to Tomb Raider. You can see the emotions coming off from Elizabeth as she talks to you during cut scenes and the expressions of your enemies as well. And the design and layout for the city of Columbia is really detailed. Seems as if the art team was taking inspiration from big cities from that era, and from what it looks like ancient Greek architecture. Al this mixed together makes for an awesome detailed city.
To sum this up, I really love Bioshock Infinite, and everyone should play this great game. You won’t be dissatisfied. Bioshock Infinite gets 5 out of 5!
