9 / 10 review
For PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3
The BioShock series has a reputation for going a step above in the first-person shooter (FPS) genre when it comes to new ideas and story-telling. BioShock Infinite not only meets the expectations set by its predecessors, but it far exceeds them.
Infinite is a great place for newcomers to enter the series and has enough new content for fans who don’t want to feel like they’re just playing the same game again.
The story of BioShock Infinite is told through the player’s eyes as the player takes on the role of Booker DeWitt, former Pinkerton agent. DeWitt is sent on a mission to retrieve a young girl, Elizabeth, from Columbia, a paradise city in the sky. Not everything is right in Columbia as Booker starts to discover that it’s not the paradise it claims to be.
The story unfolds during game-play, rather than in cut-scenes, with Elizabeth tagging along and pushing the narrative forward. The game doesn’t stop when Elizabeth says something; instead she talks as the player defends her from oncoming forces. The game doesn’t stop, so at times, it prompts the player to turn around and look as a building collapses in the distance.
The character of Elizabeth isn’t just part of the story; she’s also a partner in battle and a new addition to the game play. While DeWitt’s role is to shoot guns and use magic-like powers called “Vigor,” Elizabeth has a special ability to tear holes in reality. Elizabeth’s unique ability can be used to create cover and even bring in some extra help.
Another new addition to the series is the Sky Hook, a melee weapon also used to travel around Columbia. Traveling with the Sky Hook is akin to riding a roller coaster, but holding on to it with one hand and using the other to shoot enemies. These sections give a great change of pace from the standard shooting sections.
The world and combat feel alive with characters reacting to DeWitt in a number of ways. Some characters will ignore him until he provokes their attention, while others attack at first glance. The combat AI is smarter too, with enemies moving in and out of cover and even pinning the player down while they wait for stronger reinforcements to arrive.
Overall, BioShock Infinite is a great game. The story is on-par with any Hollywood film out there and completely engaging. Game play is solid and polished, players never feel like they’re out of control even when careening at intense speeds in the sky.
