Bioshock Infinite

This long awaited sequel to the first Bioshock (technically, to Bioshock 2, but there's much more of a connection between Infinite and the central game in the series - connection that it's excellent Burial at Sea DLCs are based on) is most certainly one of those games that any self-respecting gamer would choose if asked to prove that video games are art. It is definitely deserving of this quality, taking into consideration its stunning visuals (not necessarily the absolute top of the field in our time, but close enough; a good game never relies only on it's graphics anyway), immersive atmosphere punctuated by well-chosen tracks from the good days of ole', exquisite voice acting and solid sound design and especially it's mature, well-crafted and thought-provoking plotline, which is arguably the game's strongest point (something that the Shock series is renowned for) and one of the best seen so far in the gaming medium. It is also a (partial) departure from the 'Shock' formula, changing character archetypes, the location itself, gameplay design and even getting rid of the old school feel from previous games, so faithful fans will potentially be disappointed. I'd say that while not necessarily the greatest game of the last decade and perhaps not even all that revolutionary - though good, the gunplay and plasmid/salts system isn't exactly stellar -, Bioshock Infinite is a must-play title for anyone that looks for a strong, memorable experience/storyline delivered through a game.

Let me start off by saying I got the game for $1 so I cannot complain too much. My only issue with the game was the combat as I got kind of bored of it about 4-5 hours in. Thankfully I found the story and characters quite well written which made up for the combat. If the game had offered a wider variety of combat scenarios I feel I would of enjoyed the game more. Also if you are a fan of either of the previous Bioshock games I recommend you check out Infinite.

The final (or not) entry in the Bioshock franchise is a game that defied all expectations and revolutionised the scope of the series' universe, and in some ways perhaps even the world of gaming as a whole. Though the core gameplay, themes and ideas from previous games are still there, Infinite brings a fresh polish to the Bioshock formula along with some new elements and mechanics. More to the point, fans of the original duo will find the improved but stream-lined gunplay, the vigor combinations, the optional quests and upgrades, the bold and innovative plot choices as well as the constant interaction with a 'side-kick' (something new to the series, though foreshadowed in Bioshock 2) to be unexpected, but engaging. The narrative remains the game's strongest point, with new takes on the existential philosophy that the games like to explore, while the sound and gameplay are generally as good as ever, though more action oriented. The graphics and voice acting are perhaps a bit better than before, something that was to be expected considering the size of the budget that went into developing the game. While some may disagree with this, the impact that Bioshock Infinite made on the modern gaming landscape, especially with regards to video games as a story-telling medium, is unprecedented and incontestable. Any gamer that doesn't have it in their library is missing out.

One of my favourite games out there! Have finished it 3 times within 2 years and today I started my 4th playthrough. Easy to handle on medium pc's, pretty good graphics and amazing gameplay. The story is pretty solid as well, with a mysterious theme and the whole mind-bending theme. I would suggest it to pretty much anyone! Can't go wrong!

Bioshock returns and leaves the underwater city of Rapture for Columbia, the city in the sky. This game embodies a dystopian American city that is filled with references to slavery, racism, and the far more darker elements of US history. On the surface, Columbia seems like a welcoming and very extraordinary place. Investigate a little further, and you'll see just what a nightmare Columbia is. This game by far has some of the greatest character chemistry and storytelling you'll ever find. Again, Irrational Games still can't make a shooter to save their lives, but the storytelling and characters make up for what the gameplay lacks. There's even a plot twist that really flips the entire story on its head and makes you really consider who you are and what you are fighting for. Overall, a great story, but a mediocre shooter.