(PS3)
Release Date: 9th February 2010
Developed By 2K Marin, 2K Australia, Digital Extremes
Publisher: 2K Games
Preview: Bioshock 2 (PS3)
A unique setting and strong design elements bolstered what was an entirely linear adventure. For this sequel the cast of developers have turned the tables on the original storyline, instead preferring to set the tale just ten years after the conclusion of the first BioShock. Rather than continuing where things left off, or instigating a pre-sequel or side story you are cast as the first Big Daddy, or the first attempted experiment to create the creature. It seems a new evil now inhabits Rapture, one that is able to leave the confines of the city and snatch little girls from across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing them back to the underwater lair.
An interesting premise and the move towards a Big Daddy main character is a brave one, as they are not the most emotional or charismatic of lead roles. The combat may also suffer although the return of Plasmids will hopefully ensure a little more variety when faced with psychotic enemies. Speaking of which, Gamestyle has its fingers crossed that the opponent AI is more varied than the gung-ho strands evident in the first adventure.
More depth is promised with the ability to dual-wield weaponry and tinker with Plasmids, thereby creating unique combinations and potential solutions. For many players just simply returning to Rapture is enough of an enticement to pick up BioShock 2. A criticism for some was the lack of a multiplayer mode and this has been addressed in the sequel. As we’re beginning to see more often in the bigger titles, a studio has been specifically assigned with the task of developing the multiplayer option.
“The fans asked for a multiplayer experience and we answered,” said Christoph Hartmann, president of 2K. “With Digital Extremes delivering a multiplayer experience for BioShock 2 that features all of the things that make BioShock unique, we’re holding ourselves to a high standard so that we can deliver the depth and variety that fans of the BioShock universe demand.”
Rather than just lifting maps from the single player mode, Digital Extremes have utilised the history of Rapture. Players can expect to take part in Rapture’s Civil War, when the citizens revolted and turned on one another. Maps will include familiar locations such as the Mercury Suites and Kashmir Restaurant. Through gathering experience, new Plasmids will become available and its promised players will be able to create their own preferred method of attack.
Overall BioShock 2 is a welcome sequel, one that looks set to expand on the limitations of the original and contain enough promise to warrant a purchase. A return to Rapture was always going to be an enticing prospect, lets hope that the storyline is a match for the memorable environments of the city.
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