BioShock

 PC
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6069 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5,075 out of 6069
  2. Mixed: 678 out of 6069
  3. Negative: 316 out of 6069
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  1. DonW.
    Sep 18, 2007
    9
    A unigue game style that's easy to learn and fun to play. It has an engrossing story that keeps you wondering untill the end. All in all one of the most original games I've played in a long time.
  2. IanN.
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    The kind of experience that makes me proud of my hobby.
  3. WilSt.C.
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    A brilliant game, and a compelling story mesh to become something larger then just a video game, but an entire world. Do yourself a favor and pick up the damn thing already.
  4. OzzyT.
    Sep 16, 2007
    7
    Ok, it's a brilliant game. Nobody can say no to that. It is however dissapointingly short. It was rather easy and dull for most of the areas. I can't comlain about the graphics though. They were the best I've ever seen. The gunplay is suprisingly fun and the options and the plot are inventive and will stick in your mind. But like I said the length of the game is short. The Ok, it's a brilliant game. Nobody can say no to that. It is however dissapointingly short. It was rather easy and dull for most of the areas. I can't comlain about the graphics though. They were the best I've ever seen. The gunplay is suprisingly fun and the options and the plot are inventive and will stick in your mind. But like I said the length of the game is short. The only missions that last long enough are the boring ones that have boring objectives such as collect this and collect that.... I don't think Bioshock is revolutionary but it sure is fun if you're looking for something to do for a couple of hours.… Expand
  5. GuyS.
    Sep 15, 2007
    9
    No game is perfect, but this comes very close. I don't often play FPS as I don't find them extremely interesting. When I heard of Bioshock I was thinking "Oh great, another FPS to unfairly dominate the gaming world", but when I played it, I was surprised. I was HAVING FUN. I loved the graphics, not only were they good, but they had a very good atmosphere, and of course the water No game is perfect, but this comes very close. I don't often play FPS as I don't find them extremely interesting. When I heard of Bioshock I was thinking "Oh great, another FPS to unfairly dominate the gaming world", but when I played it, I was surprised. I was HAVING FUN. I loved the graphics, not only were they good, but they had a very good atmosphere, and of course the water looked great. The Splicers were grotesque and horrifying, the Big Daddies were almost admirable, considering the lengths they probably have to go to to protect the Horrific Little Sisters from the chaos of Rapture. It was linear, but I have yet to find a FPS that really isn't, as far as the game goes, you can randomly explore the areas for loot and come across the random splicer. So all in all, a very good game, although perhaps not deserving of the "revolutionary" title it was given, but definitely not deserving of the flak it was given by some players.… Expand
  6. JamieA.
    Sep 15, 2007
    7
    Your going to get a good bit of solid gameplay from the first half of this game, especially Sander Cohens level, but the last third of this game really lets the rest down - the final "boss" is the most anti-climatic fight ever and your 10 second end movie will leave you feeling empty. As for the whole resurrection tubes debate I thought it was a nice idea (since it means it wont need to Your going to get a good bit of solid gameplay from the first half of this game, especially Sander Cohens level, but the last third of this game really lets the rest down - the final "boss" is the most anti-climatic fight ever and your 10 second end movie will leave you feeling empty. As for the whole resurrection tubes debate I thought it was a nice idea (since it means it wont need to load from quick loads) but in the end takes the fear away from death and makes this feel more like unreal tournament rather than a horror-hold-onto-your-life-as-hard-as-you-can-game.. Wonderful location and setting, big daddy fights can be funnest in the game unless you just lay out electric wire traps which just lead to easy kills.… Expand
  7. SmokeW.
    Sep 14, 2007
    10
    This game, is not just a game, its a work of art.
  8. CODYLANDES
    Sep 14, 2007
    0
    i hate this game it is not as good as halo by a longshot i hate the game the story line is short i got this game last week and i have beaten it twice it is to easy who ever likes this game is werid i hate it halo is better bioshock does not deserve first place halo does and it will be once it comes out halo actully makes sence and it i boring and it sucks
  9. AhrelF.
    Sep 14, 2007
    8
    Good game because of it's story and setting. Without both I doubt that many would be as enamored with it. A fairly standard shooter, you've probably done everything this game offers in other games, so don't expect anything new. But what it does do, it does right and on point. The main problem is the AI, it isn't living up to that 2nd letter at all. Only the Big Daddies Good game because of it's story and setting. Without both I doubt that many would be as enamored with it. A fairly standard shooter, you've probably done everything this game offers in other games, so don't expect anything new. But what it does do, it does right and on point. The main problem is the AI, it isn't living up to that 2nd letter at all. Only the Big Daddies and Little Sisters execute some modicrum of intelligence, and it's definitley not dynamic. Everything else is so heavily scripted any season gamer will recognize when and where to use certain skills for maximum benefit. I would have liked it to be a little more transparent. And there is very little environment interaction outside of burning oil, or electrifying water. Big Daddies are pushovers on anything but Hard mode. I was quite let down by how easy they were to put down, esp as you grow more nad more powerful. The hardest ones are the first three you encounter...if you choose to kill them then. Of course you can come back later and wipe hte floor without even being touched about mid-way through the game. Don't even ask about near the end of the game....you're a steam roller then. Aside from those qualms, it's a great game. But I can't give it more than an 8.0 -- it's mroe style less substance. Not a bad thing, but certainly undeserviing of anything too much higher in this gamers opinion.… Expand
  10. DeadlyC
    Sep 13, 2007
    7
    Bioshock is in no way, a revolutionary game, Bioshock is a symptom of the dumbing down of games over the years. The Vita Chamber system was present in System Shock 2, but it was far more tactfully done. The player COULD die, if one ran out of money, which makes much more sense for a neo-super-capatilist society, the Vita Chambers amount to free health-care, parasitic anyone? The devolves Bioshock is in no way, a revolutionary game, Bioshock is a symptom of the dumbing down of games over the years. The Vita Chamber system was present in System Shock 2, but it was far more tactfully done. The player COULD die, if one ran out of money, which makes much more sense for a neo-super-capatilist society, the Vita Chambers amount to free health-care, parasitic anyone? The devolves into an exercise in grinding down big daddies even on hard mode, as opposed to thinking tactically about each situation. Moreover, there are essentially, 3 types of enemies in the game. Splicers, no matter how many types there are, they all amount to the same thing with different weapons. Security drones and bots, once the invisibility upgrade is obtained, become a non-factor. And Big Daddies, which provide the games only truly interesting enemy, but again, only two types, that all look the same. The story, could have been so much more, but was flitted away with cheesy plot twists and two dimensional villains. Everyone either is evil, or an inhuman monster, depth there aint. The game ends up becoming this, run into room, be told by an invisible voice what to do, kill splicers, play the same hacking game over and over again, kill all big daddies. The atmosphere, graphics, environments, and art direction are beautiful, absolutley beautiful. Too bad Bioshock is just another pretty face.… Expand
  11. GeraldS.
    Sep 13, 2007
    8
    First off, I'll explain I knew nothing about this being the "spiritual successor" to System Shock 2 (one of my favorite games), so imaging my surprise when I realized that's exactly what it was trying to be. I say "try" because, although at first my jaw dropped with the visuals and tense set pieces, I soon realized it paled slightly to SS2. Still fun to play (for a shooter), but First off, I'll explain I knew nothing about this being the "spiritual successor" to System Shock 2 (one of my favorite games), so imaging my surprise when I realized that's exactly what it was trying to be. I say "try" because, although at first my jaw dropped with the visuals and tense set pieces, I soon realized it paled slightly to SS2. Still fun to play (for a shooter), but not as in-depth as its predecessor.… Expand
  12. MZ
    Sep 12, 2007
    4
    The only good thing about this game are the graphics. Other than that, there isnt even 24 hours of gameplay, the storyline is almost non-existant and there is no replay value what-so-ever. Borrow it from someone who already bought it rather than shelling out your own money.
  13. ElliottS.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    An excellent update to a perfect game (System Shock 2). It is far scarier than Doom3 'promised' to be, but this title lives up to its claims and makes you carry on actually wanting to be scared. There is I feel a little something lacking in the plasmid selection, far more choice would have been good and areas where one plasmid would be needed over another to make swapping and An excellent update to a perfect game (System Shock 2). It is far scarier than Doom3 'promised' to be, but this title lives up to its claims and makes you carry on actually wanting to be scared. There is I feel a little something lacking in the plasmid selection, far more choice would have been good and areas where one plasmid would be needed over another to make swapping and managing them all the more integrated but that's a minor complaint. All in all, graphics, sound, gameplay, story a 100% classic and definite contender to Game Of The Decade never mind the year.… Expand
  14. KenH.
    Sep 11, 2007
    7
    I have to 2nd others here. There is no death penalty so the game is easy even at hard difficulty. The atmosphere is great but the story falters quite a bit near the end. Its a must-play game but it carries lots of faults. System Shock 1 and 2 are still far superior games to Bioshock.
  15. RobertL.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Great game, A little choppy with sound but awesome none the less.
  16. JohnC.
    Sep 10, 2007
    10
    This game has such a dark and twisting story through scenery that screams plastic and fake. The mid-1900s theme is very spooky. It is reminiscent of a happier time gone horribly wrong. This is one of the most visceral experiences you'll find in a game. In terms of graphics, it is on par with gears of war, but blows gears of war out of the water in terms of it's design. The way This game has such a dark and twisting story through scenery that screams plastic and fake. The mid-1900s theme is very spooky. It is reminiscent of a happier time gone horribly wrong. This is one of the most visceral experiences you'll find in a game. In terms of graphics, it is on par with gears of war, but blows gears of war out of the water in terms of it's design. The way the levels are designed is amazingly beautiful. Having enemies that aren't always your enemy is amazing. What I refer to is the Big Daddy. Not since gears' Berzerker has a game character made me tense up at the mere sight of it. It's always interesting when you are fighting a splicer and accidently shoot a Big Daddy. Especially on the harder difficlty settings. The first thought to cross your mind is "Oh SH&*" ...... "RUN!!!!" . The detail and the amount you can explore is also amazing. People may complain that it is too short. I have a theory on this. In fact a lot of great games are accused of being too short. If at the end of a game you still want to continue. If you want more of the story. If you think.... let's do it again! Than the game creates have done good and you are just complaining because you didn't want the experience to end.… Expand
  17. TillE.
    Sep 10, 2007
    5
    "As overrated as HL2" is the perfect way to describe BioShock. If you love pretty story-driven rail shooters with long load times like Half-Life 2, you'll love BioShock. If you like interesting, RPG-infused gameplay like System Shock 2, BioShock seriously disappoints. Just as with HL2, there's nothing here to justify the obscenely high ratings. As a *game*, it's just dull. "As overrated as HL2" is the perfect way to describe BioShock. If you love pretty story-driven rail shooters with long load times like Half-Life 2, you'll love BioShock. If you like interesting, RPG-infused gameplay like System Shock 2, BioShock seriously disappoints. Just as with HL2, there's nothing here to justify the obscenely high ratings. As a *game*, it's just dull. Though it's fine if you look at it as an interactive horror movie, I'm sure, it doesn't hold a candle to Deus Ex, Vampire: Bloodlines, or the System Shocks, all of which are shooter/RPG hybrids that told a great story *and* were a hell of a lot of fun to play. BioShock is a game you play to get the next bit of story, not because it's inherently enjoyable.… Expand
  18. B.G.
    Sep 10, 2007
    6
    Maybe I was wrong in expecting some kind of System Shock 2.5, but then again, maybe Ken Levine shouldn't have been boasting around about the game being a "spiritual successor" of said title. To me, Bioshock is as overrated as HL2 - instead of exploring a living (yet hostile) world as we did in SS, I feel like riding some kind of ghost train with scary monsters being thrown at me Maybe I was wrong in expecting some kind of System Shock 2.5, but then again, maybe Ken Levine shouldn't have been boasting around about the game being a "spiritual successor" of said title. To me, Bioshock is as overrated as HL2 - instead of exploring a living (yet hostile) world as we did in SS, I feel like riding some kind of ghost train with scary monsters being thrown at me every now an then. The suspense of a good horror-game is killed in frantic shooting and fiddling with the somewhat unintuitive controls (which I couldn't re-map for my own needs as the game seems to reserve the keys I'd like to use for whatever bloody purpose !)- for a game that promises such "sophisticated" ways of killing off your opponents the overall pace is way too fast and customisible controls should be a standard in every first person game, be it a simple fps or something that pretends to be something else. It's a shame the interesting setting und beatifully executed graphics desing are wasted to such a run-off-the-mill FPS - maybe Irrational should have stuck with their original concept of "secret-nazi-underground-lab", that way, everyone would have known what to expect ...… Expand
  19. VernR.
    Sep 10, 2007
    8
    Right at the start I should mention this is the first game I've enjoyed in some time but... Firstly it's got that annoying little SecuROM issue which makes it a bitch to uninstall... The graphics look awesome when cranked up full but I can only play on slightly higher than medium :( which means they look nothing special. A more general graphical problem is the stage are just too Right at the start I should mention this is the first game I've enjoyed in some time but... Firstly it's got that annoying little SecuROM issue which makes it a bitch to uninstall... The graphics look awesome when cranked up full but I can only play on slightly higher than medium :( which means they look nothing special. A more general graphical problem is the stage are just too dark, I know it's under the sea and all but the contrast could be upped a bit. I was so happy to get to Arcadia with all it's greenery and light... and then it all died and went yellow-brown :( Following from the graphics the atmosphere was really good but the sudden bursts of music were irritating and tended to occur whilst Atlas was talking to me. Also the game is very linear which detracts from the atmosphere somewhat... a just charge attitude works fine. My main gripe is with the combat, I found it very easy and very samey (I'm playing on hard). Even with the inclusion of the re-spawn thingys I've rarely died and always seem to have enough ammo - the first Big Daddys are the only difficult battles I've had so far. The AI doesn't make the combat any better as the splicers either run straight at you or run away - chasing down fleeing splices gets old quite fast. It would be nice if they went to find reinforcement or setup ambushes or just something else. Then there's the wrench. I found the majority of combat to be a back and forwards close range dance whilst trying to hit my victim in the head with it (after setting them on fire). And there aren't really that many enemies... I think I've counted five splices and two types of big daddys I'm hoping I'll come across more but I suspect not... they just seem to be getting more health. Lastly there's the annoying hacking sub-game. It's fun the first few times but I must have hacked on the order of hundreds of things... it's getting tiresome.… Expand
  20. Matthewunknown
    Sep 9, 2007
    0
    Bought the retail version of bioshock, installed it and the game would not even start. Spent hours with customer support trying to figure out why the game would not work, they couldn't figure it out.My computer specs are well above minimum requirements.I sugest downloading and playing the demo before purchasing this game or waiting till all the bugs are worked out. Never have had Bought the retail version of bioshock, installed it and the game would not even start. Spent hours with customer support trying to figure out why the game would not work, they couldn't figure it out.My computer specs are well above minimum requirements.I sugest downloading and playing the demo before purchasing this game or waiting till all the bugs are worked out. Never have had such a horrible experence trying to get a "retail" pc game to work! stay away!!… Expand
  21. RemusRupa
    Sep 9, 2007
    2
    i would have give it 1 but it has some nice graphix but it still has some graphic errors and the engine is not that good 3 ( let's buy the unreal engine used by 9999999 games and do some improvment so we don't have to work so hard : )
    story 0 it just doesn't make any sence
    sound 0 i got that stupid looping sound gameplay 3 (hacking is like ****, turrets in 1960 wtf,    i would have give it 1 but it has some nice graphix but it still has some graphic errors and the engine is not that good 3 ( let's buy the unreal engine used by 9999999 games and do some improvment so we don't have to work so hard : )
    story 0 it just doesn't make any sence
    sound 0 i got that stupid looping sound
    gameplay 3 (hacking is like ****, turrets in 1960 wtf, electric gel wtf, audio logs/pda that's not from doom 3 :/ ,only 2 enamies well only ok there are many splicers butthey are just the same, horror my ass it's not that scarry, above all a city under wather that has gone wrong and all the zombies ups splicers running and the one who is helping you turns bad now that's not from doom 3 NO : ).
    So i don't get why in the world is rated so high?????????
    I mean 96 WTF STALKER is 100 times better and it got 86 i think    … Expand
  22. MikeW.
    Sep 9, 2007
    5
    It is mediocre. I felt like I was playing another Resident Evil clone. The game play is fun when you first pick it up, but falls short about 2 or 3 hours into gameplay. Graphics are well shaded but that does not mean they are good. There are many bugs and glitches and the charecter and weapon designs look aweful aswell as some of the screens. The only thing that was truly impressive was It is mediocre. I felt like I was playing another Resident Evil clone. The game play is fun when you first pick it up, but falls short about 2 or 3 hours into gameplay. Graphics are well shaded but that does not mean they are good. There are many bugs and glitches and the charecter and weapon designs look aweful aswell as some of the screens. The only thing that was truly impressive was the sound. The sound was fantastic, with full surroundsound and a nice sub you can somewhat enjoy the game. Hacking is a chore espescialy later on in the game because it is a must hack to win situation and hacking becomes almost impossible at times. Also, the lack of multiplayer makes this game a waste of $60 when you are only going to be able to play it once through. This game was truly over hyped and falls short in both gameplay and good story. Not the worst game to recieve lower than a 5 but not good enough to be better than average.… Expand
  23. Josh
    Sep 9, 2007
    10
    The storyline the visuals, the sound, everything is perfect. Another main thing I enjoy is how scary it is. I think alot of people forget about that fact.
  24. SimonO.
    Sep 9, 2007
    5
    The graphics are good, Story is ok but the game is seriously lacking. For starters you can't die in the game at all. Once you realise this the game becomes insanely easy. The ending boss is way too easy, which is to expected based on the fact you couldn't die previously. The twist in the game is excellent but it just proves to you that you have no real control over the storyline The graphics are good, Story is ok but the game is seriously lacking. For starters you can't die in the game at all. Once you realise this the game becomes insanely easy. The ending boss is way too easy, which is to expected based on the fact you couldn't die previously. The twist in the game is excellent but it just proves to you that you have no real control over the storyline at all. Other then that I felt like I was playing a watered down (excuse the pun) version of System Shock 2.… Expand
  25. MarkP.
    Sep 8, 2007
    7
    Bioshock is an undeniably good game, but definitely not a great game. I don't understand the incredible hype surrounding this title. It is a fairly polished shooter with mostly nice graphics and an interesting storyline. There is nothing particularly revolutionary or innovative in Bioshock. Gameplay is standard fps fair, with some minor control issues that will likely be ironed out Bioshock is an undeniably good game, but definitely not a great game. I don't understand the incredible hype surrounding this title. It is a fairly polished shooter with mostly nice graphics and an interesting storyline. There is nothing particularly revolutionary or innovative in Bioshock. Gameplay is standard fps fair, with some minor control issues that will likely be ironed out in a future patch. Combat is fun, though fighting the same enemies eventually becomes tedious. The normal difficulty setting is a bit too easy, and switching to hard doesn… Expand
  26. PeterK.
    Sep 8, 2007
    7
    It's a good game, but it's hard to see where all the rave reviews are coming from. In no way is this game better or even anywhere near Half-Life 2 - which is almost three years old by now. One particular problem I found is that, on a 2.2 GHz AMD64 with an 8800 GTS 320 MB card, the very first level (where you crash into the sea) is fast on 'high quality', but as soon as It's a good game, but it's hard to see where all the rave reviews are coming from. In no way is this game better or even anywhere near Half-Life 2 - which is almost three years old by now. One particular problem I found is that, on a 2.2 GHz AMD64 with an 8800 GTS 320 MB card, the very first level (where you crash into the sea) is fast on 'high quality', but as soon as the next level loads, it's one frame every few seconds. No explanation is given where this discrepancy comes from. And this continues when you try to change the settings: the entire game crawls to a halt, including the mouse pointer. Ever tried to change the screen resolution, and can't click on the 'yes' button within 15 seconds? The design is very pretty, though it is not enough to warrant such a high score. The story is basically that of Far Cry, with some dubious morality tale thrown in. There is very little variety in terms of opponents: four major types (humans, Big Daddies and turrets/bots) with eight sub-types between them. Also, they always attack in predictable patterns, jumping a little just before hitting you, etc. The hacking system gets tiresome very, very quickly, just like the fact you have to search pretty much everything if you want to finish the game. The weapon system is interesting, but a bit bewildering in its complexity. More is not necessarily better. Again, the graphics and the whole design are simply gorgeous, but a good game is more than that. It's a feast of colour and shape, compared to the sterile desolateness of Half-Life 2, but it fails to grip you as much. Hence, a 7/10 for a game that is severely over-hyped by the 'official' reviewers who really should know better.… Expand
  27. LuhissL.
    Sep 7, 2007
    7
    My initial impression was one of awe at the visuals, both in terms of design and execution. The water, the art deco architecture is really all very beautiful. However, as the game progressed, I found myself getting extremely tired of the same action sequences over and over again. Very little to do other than walk through and get attacked by a crazy person, or a lumbering Rosie. I found My initial impression was one of awe at the visuals, both in terms of design and execution. The water, the art deco architecture is really all very beautiful. However, as the game progressed, I found myself getting extremely tired of the same action sequences over and over again. Very little to do other than walk through and get attacked by a crazy person, or a lumbering Rosie. I found the carnival atmosphere and music especially grating to my nerves. Overall, I give the game a 9 for visuals and sound and a 5 for game play (boring). Averages out to a 7.… Expand
  28. JasonL.
    Sep 7, 2007
    10
    This game is unbelieveable. It truely is a match for Half Life 2 in terms of graphics, gameplay, storyline, immersion and just plain coolness. It continues in the same "scariness" of System Shock 2 which we all fondly remember but takes advantage of all the new technology since then to make this a memorable experience.
  29. DanT.
    Sep 6, 2007
    8
    This is a very good game, and hats off to Irrational for doing a great job creating an imaginative art deco setting with its own unique atmosphere that doesn't fall into one of the predictable cliches of medieval fantasy, future sci-fi or modern day ultra-realism. But there's nothing in this game in terms of gameplay that Irrational didn't do 8 years ago with System Shock This is a very good game, and hats off to Irrational for doing a great job creating an imaginative art deco setting with its own unique atmosphere that doesn't fall into one of the predictable cliches of medieval fantasy, future sci-fi or modern day ultra-realism. But there's nothing in this game in terms of gameplay that Irrational didn't do 8 years ago with System Shock 2. In fact it's bit more simplistic. The story is decent, but is mostly told via a bunch of audio tapes, recorded and left lying about for no good reason. The lack of any grey area in the moral choices posed to the player is genuinely frustrating to anyone whose morals aren't either diabolical or saintly - That'd be most human beings. Again, a very good game, worth playing, but presently being overhyped by people who have either never played Deus Ex and/or System Shock 2, or love those games SO much they're going to give anything like them a perfect score. Irrational will do a more progressive game like this in future, this is really just a prettier version of what they've done just as well in the past.… Expand
  30. AdrianB.
    Sep 5, 2007
    10
    This game is amazing. If you got to do something you can do it in milion different ways. Also every time you load the game opponents are in different spots so sometimes it is not very easy to finish a mission.
  31. MikeL.
    Sep 5, 2007
    7
    Bio Shock Has very nice graphics on high setting medium settings look poor. The retro artdeco style is nice and it's reasonable atmospheric. BUT the gameplay is hardly uniqiue i don't understand how this game has got such high reviews when more innovative games of 07 have got lower scores! I bet if this was made on the source engine which is dated, it would get a crapier score Bio Shock Has very nice graphics on high setting medium settings look poor. The retro artdeco style is nice and it's reasonable atmospheric. BUT the gameplay is hardly uniqiue i don't understand how this game has got such high reviews when more innovative games of 07 have got lower scores! I bet if this was made on the source engine which is dated, it would get a crapier score at the most 75% overall. But anyway the point is this is I bet this game will end up having a higher scores than say a new and interesting game like L4D and that's another thing it bring nothing to the multiplayer plate! So in conclusion, nice Graphics and a interesting storyline. Un-unique gameplay, predictable and over-rated. Still despite all that it's worth ago! ooh ohh and the DRM thing is outrageous!… Expand
  32. SteveC
    Sep 5, 2007
    9
    As far as FPSs go, its one of the top 5 for me. Complaints that the complex weapon/power system is "boring" obviously stem from the fact that it isn't a run-n-gun splatterfest. it's the thinking-man's FPS. The countless combinations of powers and weapons lead to unique and meaningful attack choices for specialized enemies. As for the wrench, need we look in the direction of As far as FPSs go, its one of the top 5 for me. Complaints that the complex weapon/power system is "boring" obviously stem from the fact that it isn't a run-n-gun splatterfest. it's the thinking-man's FPS. The countless combinations of powers and weapons lead to unique and meaningful attack choices for specialized enemies. As for the wrench, need we look in the direction of Halo 2 or Half-life? Melee weapons are always going to be powerful, the reason being that in order to use them you have to get very close to your enemy, and at that range its tough to miss. Eliminate your expectations, the game accomplishes accomplishes its own goals. If you die thirty times in a row, its not because the game isn't good, it's because you aren't.… Expand
  33. Shi
    Sep 5, 2007
    10
    Its one of the best FPS games i have ever played(If not the best :P)It has everything you want action puzzles tactics and the game is full of art.So?Dont call yourself player if you havent played this masterpiece.
  34. PhilT.
    Sep 4, 2007
    8
    Overall a good game. Good graphics and the gameplay is, for the most part, fun. In my opinion it is worth the purchase price. I enjoyed the gameplay, with the multiple ammo types and plasmids. It was a lot of fun, switching back and forth depending on the situation. The audio is top-notch, easily the best part of the game. Honestly, the problem was with plot points. The endings were Overall a good game. Good graphics and the gameplay is, for the most part, fun. In my opinion it is worth the purchase price. I enjoyed the gameplay, with the multiple ammo types and plasmids. It was a lot of fun, switching back and forth depending on the situation. The audio is top-notch, easily the best part of the game. Honestly, the problem was with plot points. The endings were definitely rushed, and it disappointed me that choices I made literally in the first 3 hours of the game so directly influenced the ending. I guess I fell victim to expecting too much of the narrative, and I tried to play the middle in terms of morality. I didn't want to pick one path over another, since I figured it was an game that was deeper than it turned out to be in the end. That was a mistake, as trying to play the middle chose my ending for me. Even though the game touts itself as being morally gray, it essentially makes it black and white in the end. Make one decision, just one, that it deems morally reprehensible and you get a the 'bad guy' ending. You literally have to be a saint the entire game to get the 'good guy' ending. That is extremely disappointing. The ending completely ruined the game overall for me. Up until literally the last 15 minutes of the game I would have rated this easily 90+. After finishing it...not so much. Oh well, I still have some hope for the Half Life story. Hopefully it will resolve itself in a satisfactory manner (Although I'm a pessimist and I doubt they will pull it off I can hope they will actually follow through). All that being said, it's a fun game that I recommend. I just don't think it warrants the scores of 90+ it is getting. Maybe, just maybe, if I am in a good mood, it gets a 90. After playing through the whole thing I say it is definitely high 80's, but not high 90's. A good spiritual successor to System Shock, and I am glad a game like this is being made and I don't regret spending my money on it, but definitely not better overall than System Shock 2. SS2 was much, much, MUCH better in terms of story, although Bioshock probably has SS2 beat in terms of overall gameplay. I would personally prefer story over gameplay, but meh. You take what you can get.… Expand
  35. MilesM.
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    Amazing graphics, original storyline and characters, amazingly customizable weapons and abilities, fluid sound and replayability for different outcomes give this game a perfect 10.
  36. BattleneterBattleneters
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    IF you want to enjoy Bioshock fully you MUST not rush through it. Spend time listening to all the recordings, looking for all the items and generally looking at the scenery. Treat it more like a shooting adventure opposed to a FPS. If you treat it like any other FPS and rush it you will miss a huge amount and do yourself a dis-service. If you liked games like Duke Nukem3D, Painkiller and IF you want to enjoy Bioshock fully you MUST not rush through it. Spend time listening to all the recordings, looking for all the items and generally looking at the scenery. Treat it more like a shooting adventure opposed to a FPS. If you treat it like any other FPS and rush it you will miss a huge amount and do yourself a dis-service. If you liked games like Duke Nukem3D, Painkiller and alike this is 100% for you. If you are a Half Life nutter that prefers FPS simulators opposed to atmosphere then look else where, this is not for you. The reviews are spot on in my opinion, this is no Doom3 that was over hyped, over rated and sucked. Bishock is hyped and rated correctly, it 100% delivers what it sets out to do, plenty of atmosphere and fun.… Expand
  37. AnonymousMC
    Sep 3, 2007
    10
    If you're going to give this game a 1 you should probably check to see you're actually meeting its system requirements. The guy who couldn't see his mouse cursor was using shader model 2.0 and the game requires a card with 3.0.
    This game is fantastic--the only game that's as immersive, and well-crafted as the Half-live games. While the combat is a little inferior    If you're going to give this game a 1 you should probably check to see you're actually meeting its system requirements. The guy who couldn't see his mouse cursor was using shader model 2.0 and the game requires a card with 3.0.
    This game is fantastic--the only game that's as immersive, and well-crafted as the Half-live games. While the combat is a little inferior to H-L, the superior art direction makes up for it. Bioshock deserves it's place in a three-way tie with VALVe's games..    … Expand
  38. SpyderC.
    Sep 3, 2007
    10
    The greatest game I've ever played. Multiple endings make replayability excellent as well. Graphics are best I've ever seen and I play a lot of PC games. It is a tad unstable at some settings, but can be avoided by using the default video settings. Hope this is fixed in the future.
  39. JoLef
    Sep 3, 2007
    0
    So much expectation....
    Looks awesome.
    I read about all the bug and crash that everyone is having.... Well guest what, THEY'RE TRUE! The little intro finish, can't wait to get going, ok the door is open GO! One step only 1, bioshock.exe not responding...?!? WHAT THE HELL?!?!?! My brother had other problem with sound and everything. .. That game is uninstalled forever..    So much expectation....
    Looks awesome.
    I read about all the bug and crash that everyone is having.... Well guest what, THEY'RE TRUE!
    The little intro finish, can't wait to get going, ok the door is open GO! One step only 1, bioshock.exe not responding...?!? WHAT THE HELL?!?!?!
    My brother had other problem with sound and everything. ..
    That game is uninstalled forever.. unless a BIG update.    … Expand
  40. MarvioS.
    Sep 3, 2007
    6
    I have found home!! I really don't know why the "official" reviews of this game are so great; True, the production values are unquestionable, everything from the graphics, to art direction, to music, voice acting and mood are spot on, but that's it!! Game play is linear and boring, the sotory, tough I haven't finished yet, seems flat (and I can't really see it getting I have found home!! I really don't know why the "official" reviews of this game are so great; True, the production values are unquestionable, everything from the graphics, to art direction, to music, voice acting and mood are spot on, but that's it!! Game play is linear and boring, the sotory, tough I haven't finished yet, seems flat (and I can't really see it getting any better), the RPG/FPS mix/trade off is abysmal, other games, such as Deus Ex achieved this brilliantly. The weapons managemnt system is way too complicated for such a fast paced game, and in the end you can get through the whole thing with your machine gun, so what's the point? This is the quitenssential example of :" A well polished turd is still a turd", in fact there should be a screenshot of this game under that phrase on a dictonary :) In the end the game play is no better then Quake2 was 10 years ago, this is just a tech demo IMHO.… Expand
  41. Jaagi
    Sep 2, 2007
    9
    All in all a great game, the surroundings are stunning and although the combination of plasmids and weapons might seem a little confusing at first once you get in to it, it works like a charm. On the negative side, the final battle was waaay to easy compared to the rest.
  42. LiboW.
    Sep 1, 2007
    9
    This game is superb in its execution. For people who have "missed something," play it again; you might find a change in combination weapons/plasmids or something else that would fill that missing gap. Though comparing oblivion and bioshock is like comparing apples and oranges. If oblivion received such wide-acclaim (which btw is still one of my fav. games of all time), then bioshock by This game is superb in its execution. For people who have "missed something," play it again; you might find a change in combination weapons/plasmids or something else that would fill that missing gap. Though comparing oblivion and bioshock is like comparing apples and oranges. If oblivion received such wide-acclaim (which btw is still one of my fav. games of all time), then bioshock by means deserves it also. Just because a game is linear, doesn't mean it's bad (halflife 1/2 was extremely linear, just because you had some "space" in some places doesn't render it a grand theft auto type of a game), the linearity allows for a movie like composition, which was the effect bioshock was going for.… Expand
  43. JasonN.
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    This game is awsome good details, and work they put into making it realistic.... never seen any other game as realistic as this game.
  44. JojoFine
    Sep 1, 2007
    9
    People don't give this game enough credit for what it IS. The point of Bioshock it to bring life into the long-dead RPG-shooter genre. It certainly requires reflexes as well as resource management and skill-building, and I can understand how a die-hard shooter fan would want to forget about the micromanagement and just shoot things, while the RPG fan might complain about the People don't give this game enough credit for what it IS. The point of Bioshock it to bring life into the long-dead RPG-shooter genre. It certainly requires reflexes as well as resource management and skill-building, and I can understand how a die-hard shooter fan would want to forget about the micromanagement and just shoot things, while the RPG fan might complain about the fast-paced, first-person gameplay, but neither of those two archetypes should have bought this game to begin with. It's like playing chess and complaining that it isn't enough like checkers. This is a niche game and, while it contains shooter and RPG elements, essentially defines it's own genre. There are few elements of the game that should be objectionable to fan's of both RPGs and shooters, as the game does try to please everyone, and any open-minded gamer should be able to see the solid gameplay and exquisite storytelling present in Bioshock. This game reminds me a lot of Rainbow Six Vegas, and this is why. Vegas was an effort on the part of Ubisoft to rejuvenate the Rainbow Six squad-based tactical franchise. However, along the way, the game got dumbed down to be more accessible to a wider audience, with weapon and armor stats stripped down to the bare minimum and tactics enacted on the battlefield as opposed to in a pre-gameplay planning session. Bioshock does the same for RPG-shooters of the past, such as System Shock and Deus Ex. The gameplay is still there, and the main attraction is still the open-ended gameplay and the RPG decisions which would then translate into tangible advantages while playing in real time. However, the RPG elements have been shaved down to save the shooter fanatic from losing interest. Anyone who thinks that this game is overly complicated and therefore not as fun as a standard kill-fest obviously isn't coming into it with the proper intention of playing a game in which the satisfaction comes from being able to play the game your own way. The character-building options are extremely varied and provide interesting new gameplay options and if you chose to forgo taking advantage of these customization options, it's your own fault if you find the game boring and derivative.… Expand
  45. Impaled
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    It's like System Shock 2 but with less inventory management and scariness and more freakish mutants with guns and pipes rushing you with an intent to kill! It's a bunch more streamlined and fast paced than Shock 2 but that's fine by me.
  46. aar
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    Great story, great atmosphere, and fun gameplay. Overall, a very polished game that provides an experience few games do.
  47. DavidM.
    Sep 1, 2007
    2
    Essentially an overrated and glitchy remake of System Shock 2. It has some pretty graphics, where they work, but it is very linear, has little atmosphere and feels clunky to play.
  48. CurtisT.
    Aug 31, 2007
    5
    Linear, Repetitive, Underwater Fallout-esqe themed shooter. Pretty graphics. Short length, ten hours solve time. Player choices have little impact on game outcome.
  49. CoryA.
    Aug 31, 2007
    6
    Simply average and mundane. The graphics are nothing to behold (just because it's shiny doesn't mean it's next-gen material). The gameplay is average as well, and the AI (below average, like every other FPS out there). The only thing that stands out? The audio. And I'm only speaking for the voice acting, nothing else. It's simply appalling that this game is given Simply average and mundane. The graphics are nothing to behold (just because it's shiny doesn't mean it's next-gen material). The gameplay is average as well, and the AI (below average, like every other FPS out there). The only thing that stands out? The audio. And I'm only speaking for the voice acting, nothing else. It's simply appalling that this game is given perfect scores when it's so mediocre.… Expand
  50. JudsonV.
    Aug 31, 2007
    10
    This masterpiece combines first-rate gameplay, storytelling, visuals, and even sound into the best game I have played in a long time. Truly, video game art.
  51. Avs
    Aug 31, 2007
    7
    Overall: 7, because its a decent FPS by today's standards. I also agree with those who gave it a 8 or lower as they actually point out the worst of the worst. The hype is what gives these reviews their scores, this game is over hyped, its graphics requirement was disappointing for its style of art. Worst off is the fact that wrench > all weapons, and respawn of monsters while Overall: 7, because its a decent FPS by today's standards. I also agree with those who gave it a 8 or lower as they actually point out the worst of the worst. The hype is what gives these reviews their scores, this game is over hyped, its graphics requirement was disappointing for its style of art. Worst off is the fact that wrench > all weapons, and respawn of monsters while interesting, is a bit unnecessary. However, the critics hype it up, and give it ratings it does not deserve, most likely due to the lack of major FPS games out recently. The biggest disappointing factor that shows the truth behind why us gamers rate it much lower than critics for this game is simply because this game was not the flexible, challenging, unique FPS that others like Halflife displayed long ago. The story is weak, especially as it is obvious what is going on before you even crash into Rapture. This kills any redemption value Bioshock has due to its easy and therefore non-thrilling gameplay even on hardest difficulty levels. Story was more audio driven than anything, unlike narrative or script based. Sound is great however, except for some areas with more sound than necessary such as movement when there is none. Art and graphics are great, except they are nothing new than games when the Xbox360 came out, and that their engine could have done much more than a pseudo cartoony rendition with fake blood sprites being the kicker. Choices, while more (in quantity not quality) than other FPS, doesn't create any impact at all. Flexibility in skills and upgrades are non-existent.… Expand
  52. AndrewB.
    Aug 31, 2007
    10
    Wow I had 3 hours of the best gamepley ever last night have a radeon x1900 gt and it looks superb the best graphics I have ever seen! I was thinking of upgrading my Graphics card but I don't think I really need too. Not at all samey samey like oblivion (once you have seen one grey castle you have seen them all!. I cannot wait to get back and play some more . Intelligent Ai even on Wow I had 3 hours of the best gamepley ever last night have a radeon x1900 gt and it looks superb the best graphics I have ever seen! I was thinking of upgrading my Graphics card but I don't think I really need too. Not at all samey samey like oblivion (once you have seen one grey castle you have seen them all!. I cannot wait to get back and play some more . Intelligent Ai even on medium settings.… Expand
  53. JohnM.
    Aug 30, 2007
    9
    Like most rpgs this game has repetetive gameplay. And I love to keep doing it over and over again! A great and compelling storyline moral decisions? I loved it. The only flaw is multiplayer. And everyone. The game isn't bad just because you have a bad computer.
  54. TimL.
    Aug 30, 2007
    10
    Graphics - Outstanding Gameplay - Outstanding Story - Brilliant Simply breathtaking atmosphere. AI rather smart. Multiple ways to kill enemies. All the environment can be manipulated to your advantage. 10/10 100%
  55. SteveG.
    Aug 30, 2007
    5
    I would love to give this game a 9 or even a 10, however the bugs and major crashing issues that I and many others are experiencing prevents me. In the week and a half I've had Bioshock, I've been able to play for about 15 minutes all together and only about 5 min consecutively. I even reinstalled XP for this game with no luck. However, the few minutes I was able to play wereI would love to give this game a 9 or even a 10, however the bugs and major crashing issues that I and many others are experiencing prevents me. In the week and a half I've had Bioshock, I've been able to play for about 15 minutes all together and only about 5 min consecutively. I even reinstalled XP for this game with no luck. However, the few minutes I was able to play were fantastic. To 2k I say please patch this game.… Expand
  56. TerryD.
    Aug 30, 2007
    6
    Man, I must be missing something - I just don't see the wonder of this title. Yeah, it
  57. KEvinS.
    Aug 29, 2007
    7
    A beautiful game held back by its game play and weak moral choices. The weak game play elements include all of the guns sucking. At certain times, such as the menu screen and exasperatingly simple combat and crappy UI , it was easy to tell the game was basically a port from the 360 with no significant game play changes. The game kinda gets old after a few hours considering everyone looks A beautiful game held back by its game play and weak moral choices. The weak game play elements include all of the guns sucking. At certain times, such as the menu screen and exasperatingly simple combat and crappy UI , it was easy to tell the game was basically a port from the 360 with no significant game play changes. The game kinda gets old after a few hours considering everyone looks the same. I mean they are exactly the same too, just with different weapons and slightly different tactics. It is like a Final Fantasy game if you only fought goblins but they got more health as you played further through the game. The moral choice you are presented with in the game is stupid too. You can either kill Little sisters and get twice as much adam, or save them and get half the adam initially and then the other half as a gift, along with some useless ammo or something. There are two endings, but I don't really think its worth playing again to see the other one that I didn't see. I'm actually playing STALKER again instead. Stalker is a much better game, in its more optimized patched state. A very good shooter with many good aspects, unlike bioshock that was just pretty. Bioshock just goes to show you that a pretty game doesn't mean a good game.… Expand
  58. TomJ.
    Aug 29, 2007
    8
    The + AMBIANCE, GFX, ART, SOUND! The - Gameplay, Repetitive, AI, Replay After only 3 hours, the game got boring, kill, kill, open door, save or kill girl, blah. i was expecting more then just repetitive gameplay. this game shoulda been more like an adventure, what a waste of beautifull environments. Conclusion Just another FPS. with great gfx , sound & art.
  59. JC
    Aug 29, 2007
    0
    11 out of 10 for the game. It rocks much from what I've seen in the DEMO>

    -11 for Dunderhead implementation of SONY's secureROM software that is locking people out of the game with limited activations (2 max). Don't know if it's in the Steam version, I won't be buying till I find out.
  60. JosephS.
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    The most minor of flaw is the lack of online play. Otherwise it is easily one of the most amazing games I've ever played. There are games you play once, and there are games you lay awake in your bed thinking about, contemplating strategies, and ultimately returning to your computer to waste away your sleeping hours with your eyes wide and unblinking, staring at that glowing box that The most minor of flaw is the lack of online play. Otherwise it is easily one of the most amazing games I've ever played. There are games you play once, and there are games you lay awake in your bed thinking about, contemplating strategies, and ultimately returning to your computer to waste away your sleeping hours with your eyes wide and unblinking, staring at that glowing box that sends you into this amazing world. There's simply nothing else like it. This is the sort of game people will be talking about nostalgically in fifteen years, exclaiming how it changed the video game industry for the better. In a world of games that rely on graphics and throw story development down the crapper, this game shines blindingly, and shows us just how flawed other games are, and these games bow before Bioshock.… Expand
  61. RobertG
    Aug 28, 2007
    0
    I'm sure the game is great, if you get it to start. The 1000+ posts in the "outstanding pc problems" thread on 2k:s support forum bears witness to major problems though. In said thread not a single reply from 2 k can be found. In short - no game performance can nullify the complete and utter disregard from 2k against the thousands of buyers that are reporting trouble even getting theI'm sure the game is great, if you get it to start. The 1000+ posts in the "outstanding pc problems" thread on 2k:s support forum bears witness to major problems though. In said thread not a single reply from 2 k can be found. In short - no game performance can nullify the complete and utter disregard from 2k against the thousands of buyers that are reporting trouble even getting the game to start (on more than adequate machines, I might add). Nope, sry - 2k flunks in my book.… Expand
  62. Raya
    Aug 28, 2007
    7
    This game has been over hyped by a lot of the press. Just because the designers actually used an art deco style rather than say the typical cyperpunk/gieger look that too many games go for does not make the game more arty! It's very much like Doom 3 meets Metroid Prime. Very dark and recorded messages scattered around - corridor shooter like doom. Then the missions backtrack around -This game has been over hyped by a lot of the press. Just because the designers actually used an art deco style rather than say the typical cyperpunk/gieger look that too many games go for does not make the game more arty! It's very much like Doom 3 meets Metroid Prime. Very dark and recorded messages scattered around - corridor shooter like doom. Then the missions backtrack around - get this to open this, do this to obtain that. Photograph (scan) to find a weekness - total Metroid. I'm about half way through but I'm affraid it's all getting rather boring! Hope it picks up soon. Considering it's under water the water plays little part - the fish such as there are are arthritic and really poor. Such attention to detail inside whilst the out side just uses the same shaol of 12 'rubber' fish… Expand
  63. Adrian
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    An amazing rollercoaster of a ride that oozes atmosphere. The attention to detail is phenomenal and the graphics are incredible. You really get involved in the story behind Rapture and the mystery surrounding this underwater "Utopia". This game provides plenty of thrills and tension that's sure to keep you on your toes at all times and see it through to the end. Sure, this game An amazing rollercoaster of a ride that oozes atmosphere. The attention to detail is phenomenal and the graphics are incredible. You really get involved in the story behind Rapture and the mystery surrounding this underwater "Utopia". This game provides plenty of thrills and tension that's sure to keep you on your toes at all times and see it through to the end. Sure, this game isn't perfect (no game is), but that doesn't mean it doesn't deserve a 10. Easily one of the best games on XBOX 360 and probably one of the best games overall that I have played in the last 6 or 7 years.… Expand
  64. GeorgeG.
    Aug 27, 2007
    9
    This game reminded me of Deus Ex, and that's a very good thing. The story line is fresh and the audio and radio "narative" kept me in the story. The graphics are amazing on a high end machine and still quite nice on one that was high end three years ago. It ran smoothly, never crashed through my initial run. The weapons and powers are fun to use and to experiment with. The Copy This game reminded me of Deus Ex, and that's a very good thing. The story line is fresh and the audio and radio "narative" kept me in the story. The graphics are amazing on a high end machine and still quite nice on one that was high end three years ago. It ran smoothly, never crashed through my initial run. The weapons and powers are fun to use and to experiment with. The Copy protection/FairUse Restriction is over the top for a Steam game, however. Also it has a very linear and scripted feel for a game that was touted as being open ended, however most FPS have this failing. All in all, I'd rank it above DeusEx, HL, HL2, or even System Shock2. Great game.… Expand
  65. KoshG.
    Aug 27, 2007
    6
    Nice art direction and high production values, but not very difficult. Double endings and "moral choices" definitely overrated unless you're an ethical simpleton. 7/10. Then -1 for $ value: ridiculous SM3.0 requirement forcing me to upgrade my otherwise perfectly viable X850XT graphics card.
  66. TheCaptain
    Aug 27, 2007
    9
    I like this score. It really says how I felt about this: pretty good. Kind of short. I expected more replay value too. I liked the moral dilemma and the twist was decent if corny. One person said the graphics were terrible. That's like saying watermelon is terrible because your knife isn't sharp enough to cut it. What?! Get a new fucking knife! There's juicy delicious I like this score. It really says how I felt about this: pretty good. Kind of short. I expected more replay value too. I liked the moral dilemma and the twist was decent if corny. One person said the graphics were terrible. That's like saying watermelon is terrible because your knife isn't sharp enough to cut it. What?! Get a new fucking knife! There's juicy delicious inside. My computer's only decent and the game doesn't run that choppy at all on high settings. Clearly it's very well optimized. As for the AI... it really does try not to die which is all you can really expect and it gets better later on with them more likely to run off to healing stations when necessary. Someone else said "overly complex." There's some complexity in it, but it's actually fairly simple. In fact, it's very much like any other FPS. It's more linear than expected, which aids the narrative any way. You get guns, hope you have ammo and shoot things. There are some decisions to make along the way. Otherwise if your head hurts while playing this I'd seek medical attention because there's not even that much to think about. Unless you're listening intently to the intricate story through the audio diaries strewn about the game. I'll agree that it was over hyped, but this is still a must have game.… Expand
  67. KT
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    If ever there was a game to rival HL and HL2, this would be it. From the characters, to the atmosphere, to the music, this game is the mona lisa of the gaming age. The dystopian feel, the 1984 ambiance, the ayn rand story architechture (especially in Ryan) are all top notch. If you own a functional modern pc (meaning graphics card of 7950 gtx and up) you owe it to yourself to get this If ever there was a game to rival HL and HL2, this would be it. From the characters, to the atmosphere, to the music, this game is the mona lisa of the gaming age. The dystopian feel, the 1984 ambiance, the ayn rand story architechture (especially in Ryan) are all top notch. If you own a functional modern pc (meaning graphics card of 7950 gtx and up) you owe it to yourself to get this game. It's that good.… Expand
  68. Kevin
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    Superb. Game design breaks new grounds and sets new standards. PC graphics blow away the 360 version and are simply the best there is. Works great right out of the box. 2K has resolved the authentication / cd-key problems and is also resolving the widescreen issues in the near future - great support from 2K Games. Basically, believe the hype and don't let naysayers sway you away from Superb. Game design breaks new grounds and sets new standards. PC graphics blow away the 360 version and are simply the best there is. Works great right out of the box. 2K has resolved the authentication / cd-key problems and is also resolving the widescreen issues in the near future - great support from 2K Games. Basically, believe the hype and don't let naysayers sway you away from purchasing this game - it's as amazing a single player experience as Far Cry was 3 years ago.… Expand
  69. JarrodLofy
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    Amazingly horrible bugs but once you do have the game running consistently quite frankly i don't think i have ever seen a better put together game in my whole life that not only has an involving story that will grab you and never let go but also a creepy atmosphere that has me scared shitless after only a few hours i really don't think i have played a scarier game in my wholeAmazingly horrible bugs but once you do have the game running consistently quite frankly i don't think i have ever seen a better put together game in my whole life that not only has an involving story that will grab you and never let go but also a creepy atmosphere that has me scared shitless after only a few hours i really don't think i have played a scarier game in my whole life way above F.E.A.R. and half life 2 combined… Expand
  70. ChrisG.
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    Amazing! The graphics are not the best ever seen (ex. Crysis), but the overall atmosphere is amazing. I'm running on a DX9 system, so I haven't experienced the DX10 "extras", but from the side by side comparisons I've seen on the web, there isn't too much difference. The standout of the game is that the sound design is some of the best I've ever experienced. The Amazing! The graphics are not the best ever seen (ex. Crysis), but the overall atmosphere is amazing. I'm running on a DX9 system, so I haven't experienced the DX10 "extras", but from the side by side comparisons I've seen on the web, there isn't too much difference. The standout of the game is that the sound design is some of the best I've ever experienced. The voice acting is top notch. The pacing is perfect. Characters have a personality and go about their daily routines, mumbling strange things to themselves or arguing amongst themselves. This is a living world. There are some minor flaws, but they do not detract from the experience. I have not fallen victim to widescreen issues or any of the registration issues, so I can't talk on those. One of the flaws that I have noticed is that the weapons don't feel right, sometimes. The shotgun, my personal favorite, doesn't have a realistic feel when up close to an enemy. The sound of the shotgun blast is off occasionally. The pistol sounds and feels more powerful than the shotgun. The other thing that seemed strange was that the enemies get tougher as you progress, but without any visual difference. Why does it now take 3 headshots to take down a common enemy that only took 1 earlier? Did they upgrade their health? Are they wearing invisible armor? Why? My advice to anyone that wants to get the most out of this game: 1) Turn up the volume, 2) Use 5.1 speakers or headphones, 3) Sit close to the monitor, 4) Adjust the Brightness through the game options to the optimal setting, 5) Play in a dark room. 6) Turn off subtitles, quest arrow, shiny usable objects ( This adds to the realism and forces you to explore more of the world, unlocking more of Raptures secrets, 7) The game gets better the further you progress, so keep playing This game will pull you in and not let go.… Expand
  71. AndyWilson
    Aug 27, 2007
    3
    It is a great game. It is totally unique. It is unlike anything you have ever played before.......

    It is also completely unplayable on the PC. Forced mouse accelaration with no way to turn it off? I mean come on. No serious gamer will ever play a game with mouse acceleration on. FOV issues. 70degrees fov in 4:3? Crazy. The norm in PC gaming is 90degrees. When they announce    It is a great game. It is totally unique. It is unlike anything you have ever played before.......

    It is also completely unplayable on the PC. Forced mouse accelaration with no way to turn it off? I mean come on. No serious gamer will ever play a game with mouse acceleration on. FOV issues. 70degrees fov in 4:3? Crazy. The norm in PC gaming is 90degrees. When they announce this game they said it would be designed for PC gamers. It isn't it's designed for XBOX360, ported to PC and set for people using a 360 controller on their PC. If you play with the controller, its fine. If your a real PC gamer who want mouse and keyboard control, don't bother even looking at the game. It will be the biggest waste of money ever. If you don't know what mouse acceleration is, you'll enjoy the game and think it's the best thing you've ever played, and that's probably because it is. Just a shame they can't make it for serious gamers.    … Expand
  72. Nacho
    Aug 27, 2007
    9
    If you're going to review a game, at least make educated statements. The reason a reviewer's grapical problems existed was because his video card was NOT up to the REQUIRED system specifications. It's not enough to have a DirectX 9 video card, it also must support Shader Model 3. It gives the video card specs right on the box. If this is ignored there will be nothing butIf you're going to review a game, at least make educated statements. The reason a reviewer's grapical problems existed was because his video card was NOT up to the REQUIRED system specifications. It's not enough to have a DirectX 9 video card, it also must support Shader Model 3. It gives the video card specs right on the box. If this is ignored there will be nothing but graphical 'glitches'. I orinally scored this at 10, because I couldn't give it a 9.8, because I felt it was that good. The game is still excellent, but now that I've completed about 70% of the game, I feel that it could have used one more month of QA testing. The widescreen thing was a design decision which is being adressed by developers now. However, there are just enough on the issues that have come up since the games release to make me re-assess. Mostly the widescreen decision. But the copy protection for the non-digital purchasers is a slap in the face to those that spend hard earned money. I don't know of any other software that would require me to un-install it, before I do a system format, or I lose one of my validations. So if I have a system crash and have no way to recover other than format my HD, there goes an activation. If I just forget because I haven't played the game for a while . . .there goes another activation. I guess I'd just have to resort to some other means of getting my game to work. This copy protection is one of the reasons piracy is so prevalent on the Internet. If I hadn't purchased this game off of Steam, and purchased it in a store. I'd be looking for an alternate means of running the software, if you catch my meaning.… Expand
  73. GarrettM.
    Aug 26, 2007
    8
    Bioshock stretches the unreal engine to its limit. That being said, it stretches quite nicely. The game delivers superior art design, sound, story, acting, scope, and pretty much everything it attempts to do (excluding basic combat). Those who enjoyed Doom3, but wished for a deeper feeling of imersion, Bioshock is for you.
  74. JB
    Aug 26, 2007
    1
    It's not so much a game as a collection of reproducible bugs. It would get at least a 9 if you could do things like save.... or load the second area... or pull out the revolver... or... you get the idea. It looks like they just kind of released the alpha or something and said 50 DOLLA YOU BUY OK??
  75. RJT.
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    Bioshock is an experience no one should miss! A exciting and interesting story is here, surrounded by a finely detailed world that is quite unique. Many times I would just stop and marvel, at how well crafted each piece of Rapture really is. The only fault I can find here, is the lack of penalties after your character dies. the challenge is really negated by the Vital chambers. But this Bioshock is an experience no one should miss! A exciting and interesting story is here, surrounded by a finely detailed world that is quite unique. Many times I would just stop and marvel, at how well crafted each piece of Rapture really is. The only fault I can find here, is the lack of penalties after your character dies. the challenge is really negated by the Vital chambers. But this is a minor thing, when compared to the overall creation. Wonderful! Thank you for once again raising the standards for all future games. This is a quality experience, with great voice acting, engaging storyline, amazing graphics, and most of all... exciting. I have enjoyed every second I have spent in Rapture!… Expand
  76. KN
    Aug 26, 2007
    9
    this is a great game, the idea of having diffrent ammo types, upgradable guns (the chemical thrower is REAL FUN) plasmids all adds to variety although there are 2 things which i think would make the game better.
    1. some more character variety because killing splicers over and over then hacking security cameras becomes very repetetive (at least half life 2 had zombies/people/combine ect)    this is a great game, the idea of having diffrent ammo types, upgradable guns (the chemical thrower is REAL FUN) plasmids all adds to variety although there are 2 things which i think would make the game better.
    1. some more character variety because killing splicers over and over then hacking security cameras becomes very repetetive (at least half life 2 had zombies/people/combine ect)
    2. its always action and i dont think there is enough breaks in gameplay, what i liked were games like HL2/dark messiah/dues ex all had camps where you could stock up on ammo and were out of the action for 5 minutes... with this its constant

    but all in all great storyline, good combat, innotive ideas such as hacking and a great way to show off the new unreal engine before MOH AB and UT3    … Expand
  77. BigJim49
    Aug 26, 2007
    9
    I have deliberately made a point of not looking at other comments while playing this game. I'm about halfway through and from the first I have had the distinct impression of deja vu. System Shock 2 sprang immediately to mind. Still a very good game, good story and gameplay. The mark of a good game is that it forces you to sit on the PC for hours just to see what happens next. II have deliberately made a point of not looking at other comments while playing this game. I'm about halfway through and from the first I have had the distinct impression of deja vu. System Shock 2 sprang immediately to mind. Still a very good game, good story and gameplay. The mark of a good game is that it forces you to sit on the PC for hours just to see what happens next. I should be out gardening but I've managed to lose a full day playing this thing... very addictive.… Expand
  78. FrankieP.
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    The hype is justified. As absorbing and as thrilling as Half Life 2. Packs as big a "wow factor" punch as Far Cry. Runs as beautifully and glides along as nicely as Medal Of Honour. As original, quirky and as innovative as my personal favourite, No One Lives Forever 1 & 2. If you have the PC to run it, it is THE reason why you bought a powerful PC in the first place! If you haven't The hype is justified. As absorbing and as thrilling as Half Life 2. Packs as big a "wow factor" punch as Far Cry. Runs as beautifully and glides along as nicely as Medal Of Honour. As original, quirky and as innovative as my personal favourite, No One Lives Forever 1 & 2. If you have the PC to run it, it is THE reason why you bought a powerful PC in the first place! If you haven't it is THE reason to upgrade NOW!… Expand
  79. Dr.G.
    Aug 25, 2007
    8
    A well built game but has it's share of flaws that over hyped games typically have. While the environment was intricately constructed there was a definite sense of being enclosed. There was no feeling of "openness" as one may expect from a next-gen FPS. Of course this is because of the underwater environment seems to be limiting as to what surroundings can produce. While the game had A well built game but has it's share of flaws that over hyped games typically have. While the environment was intricately constructed there was a definite sense of being enclosed. There was no feeling of "openness" as one may expect from a next-gen FPS. Of course this is because of the underwater environment seems to be limiting as to what surroundings can produce. While the game had an excellent plot I still felt a sort of cookie cutter resemblance to many other games. If I were to measure this game against HL2 I believe Bioshock would leave me wanting more. In the end this game had a very intriguing concept but I believe that it was victim to the typical over hype that most big name games are in our present time.… Expand
  80. DaveW
    Aug 25, 2007
    9
    There isn't much to say about this game that hasn't already been said. However it is not a perfect 10... not because of anything in the game, but instead the use of DRM in the PC version. It's enough of an issue to atleast lose a point... Nothing in this game is at fault, it is expertly crafted. My only niggle is that the little sisters don't back away and try to hideThere isn't much to say about this game that hasn't already been said. However it is not a perfect 10... not because of anything in the game, but instead the use of DRM in the PC version. It's enough of an issue to atleast lose a point... Nothing in this game is at fault, it is expertly crafted. My only niggle is that the little sisters don't back away and try to hide after your initial encounter with one, but it hardly matters.… Expand
  81. dd
    Aug 25, 2007
    9
    It is simply the best FPS game I've ever played. The graphics are stunning and varied. There are lots of puzzles but they never feel like puzzles, they feel like actual problems to be solved. The only reason I don't give it a 10 is that while it's the best in the genre, it's not an entirely new concept, even if it is the best execution of the concept
  82. CollinC.
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    One of the few games that can truly be considered art. Bioshock offers the gamer a glimpse of what lies ahead for this rapidly evolving medium.
  83. Variatas
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    Looks incredible, even if you aren't running the best hardware, in which case it looks mind-blowingly awesome. Sounds outstanding; which sets up the environment and brings it to a strange, twisted life. The story is one of the best and most eniticing narratives ever told in a game. All in all, this is a Game of the Year, and its only August.
  84. goggruel
    Aug 25, 2007
    4
    VERY poor quality - game is GREAT - but no as complex as system shock - more FPS then anything - story line is ok (the sound quality to hear it is POOR - game crashes and resets all settings every 30 mins or so - DONT BUY FROM STORE - buy it from steam - it gets patches 1st and has a lot less problems
  85. wadzkup
    Aug 25, 2007
    1
    waste of money, terrible and overhyped. No variety in the enemies (warping or shooting guns isnt variety) and they say you have choices to make, the only choice is to harvest or save girls... the story was so incredibly weak that I reinstalled hl2 to get that bad taste out of my mouth. Valve better make tf2 worth it....
  86. MitchT
    Aug 25, 2007
    7
    Way too demanding on graphics. I had to replace a perfectly good graphics card with another newer card to run this game and even that new $200 card still runs the game choppy as hell (on low settings). This game is not ment for the casual gamer, thats for sure.
  87. ketracelwhite
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    What a game! When I read the first previews I was slightly disapointed because they said it was missing a lot of the rpg- elements that where in System Shock, (I feared this would turn out to be just another shooter with a nice story), but wtf, this game just rocks! A true masterpiece!
  88. NathanH
    Aug 25, 2007
    4
    Such a pity. Great art direction is wasted on the same old crap dressed up in pretty clothes. No sense of build up or tension, repetitive combat, contrived plot. The atmosphere that people are going on about is actually the 'potential atmosphere' this game could have had if it was made by capcom
  89. TL.
    Aug 25, 2007
    8
    A very good game, but not a great one. The play mechanics really needed to be tweaked--since you respawn at the closest "vita chamber" you can wear enemies down by fighting, dying and respawning ad nauseum. The story is completely predictable, an amalgamation of every worn out science fiction cliche in the book and the characters are all kind of blah. None of them stick with you for more A very good game, but not a great one. The play mechanics really needed to be tweaked--since you respawn at the closest "vita chamber" you can wear enemies down by fighting, dying and respawning ad nauseum. The story is completely predictable, an amalgamation of every worn out science fiction cliche in the book and the characters are all kind of blah. None of them stick with you for more than five minutes after you finish the game. Compare the stereotypical villain from Bioshock with Robert Culp's fussy, supercilious head scientist in Half-Life 2.… Expand
  90. thedude282
    Aug 25, 2007
    9
    Incredible depth of character and story is what really pulls this game together--the pretty package is just icing on the cake. My only complaint is that the levels take entirely too long to load.
  91. GMcG
    Aug 24, 2007
    9
    An excellent game, though a little difficult for those without the proper equipment.

    If you have a fast, up-to-date, killer gaming PC then this is the perfect game for you. However, if your PC is a little behind on the updates, it can bring the experience down a bit.

    Either way, an engrossing and beautiful game. Good work, Irrational and 2K!
  92. Hoplite
    Aug 24, 2007
    7
    Bioshock really doesn't live up to the hype surrounding it, and its a shame that so many reputable game reviewers weren't able to see past the flash and give the game an unbiased review for what it is: an entertaining but derivative (and at times frustratingly average) first-person shooter that is at most Evolutionary, but never revolutionary, in its presentation. Despite the Bioshock really doesn't live up to the hype surrounding it, and its a shame that so many reputable game reviewers weren't able to see past the flash and give the game an unbiased review for what it is: an entertaining but derivative (and at times frustratingly average) first-person shooter that is at most Evolutionary, but never revolutionary, in its presentation. Despite the open environments the game is almost completely linear - it holds your hand and tells you where to go and when, and while you can choose to go off the beaten path and explore, there's really nothing to be gained by this except the occasional stash of ammo and money. More likely you'll be frustrated by the waves upon waves of splicers that greet you around every corner - getting into massive gunfights everywhere you go kind-of kills the wonder of exploring the environment, which, while impressive visually, falls apart when you attempt to dig below the surface. Everything about it screams "I'm a videogame", from the arrangement of the levels and lack of functional purpose and interaction in many of the environments you explore to the same old weapons selection, which includes all the basics for an fps (pistol, shotgun, SMG, etc.). It seems strange to me from a story perspective that pioneers came to the ocean floor to build a Utopian society and brought with them a massive arsenal, including grenade launchers and gun turrets around every corner (regardless of the excuses for them being there, they simply serve to remind me of every other fps I've ever played). I understand that society has apparently crumbled, but I was promised an FPS revolution, and what I got was braindead AI zombies who rush me en masse (like in Doom and every other FPS ever made), gun turrets around every corner (ditto), linear mission/level design, a pretty standard plot, and a somewhat innovative, if flawed, combat mechanic that involves shuffling between weapons with a handful of different ammunition types and Force Powers (er, plasmids) using the mouse wheel and keystrokes, which can become very annoying when you're fighting a handful of different enemy types in a battle, and lead you to feel like you're fighting the controls rather than the bad guys. I was told I was going to be immersed in this world and be able to make deep moral decisions, but instead of making alliances with the survivors and carefully scavenging for items as I explore a rich sci fi world, I'm blasting (almost) everything that moves and buying ammunition and plasmids from vending machines (why are there a bazillion vending machines that sell armor piercing ammunition and none that sell soda?) On top of this, I find the whole interweaving of the story and game design fundamentally flawed. Why in a world that has supposedly been destroyed by overindulgence in DNA altering drugs, does the gameplay so freely encourage you to shoot up with plasmids? It's the ultimate example of the designers dropping the ball on a chance to weave gameplay into the story in a meaningful way. As the characters in the game bemoan the toll that 'splicing' has taken on their society, the game itself encourages you to get your hands on as much ADAM as you can to boost your abilities (there's no way to get past many areas of the game without plasmids), going so far as to discourage you from leaving a level until you've collected from all the Little Sisters in the area (because, and I quote: "the game can get extremely difficult"). There's no apparent gameplay penalty for over-splicing or over-using your abilities (notwithstanding the obligatory mechinations of the plot), and its a real shame, because its one of many opportunities this game had to actually merge storytelling and gameplay in a revolutionary way Its decent as an FPS, but while it has some novel design concepts (all culled from other games), its not the revolution that I was expecting.… Expand
  93. neilspeck
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    i am a fifty year old gamer and this year looks like it will be a bumper year if crysis or indeed any other game can match up to bioshock.i am running it usinng a xt1900xtx and it looks awsome.the game play is addictive and fun also at the same time pulls you in and sucks you out wanting more.and guess what you get more cos it gets better each time you play it.i have had it one day and ii am a fifty year old gamer and this year looks like it will be a bumper year if crysis or indeed any other game can match up to bioshock.i am running it usinng a xt1900xtx and it looks awsome.the game play is addictive and fun also at the same time pulls you in and sucks you out wanting more.and guess what you get more cos it gets better each time you play it.i have had it one day and i have been on and off it about 6 times in between meals and sleep etc.amazing the trouble is i am going to greece on holiday monday and i will have to wait a week then before i can play it again.what else can i say except if anyone knocks it i would like to know what they have been playing.… Expand
  94. AM
    Aug 24, 2007
    9
    an amazingly inventive and original game, i was not aware of it until release, so avoided all the hype. for the 2 people who have complained so far, i understand somewhat the overly complexity of the game but thats why they included the shift menu with all weapons and plasmids, giving you paused time to select the best weapon for the next scenario. second person there are bugs becausean amazingly inventive and original game, i was not aware of it until release, so avoided all the hype. for the 2 people who have complained so far, i understand somewhat the overly complexity of the game but thats why they included the shift menu with all weapons and plasmids, giving you paused time to select the best weapon for the next scenario. second person there are bugs because your computer is a piece of shit, thus far it has been a extremely stable release with only some minor physics/gameplay issues, and btw dave a this isn't ea, which you shouldn't be expecting quality from. as with any form of high art it goes over the heads of the lesser dabblers, the cannot properly appreciated the wonderful blend of so many different genres to help refresh the tired old fps format.… Expand
  95. DJ
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    What can I say that hasn't already be said. I just completed the game, but will definately play it again now, trying new things as I go. The game ran great and had no glitches, bugs, or other problems for me (high-end system, though). Definately worth the money.
    I only wish it could have had slightly more content, but then maybe I'm just greedy.
  96. CurlM
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    Talk about perfection... There hasn't been a game release that has drawn me in like this in a very long time. I challenge other developers to do the same.

    And to all the naysayers and complainers, just play the game and enjoy it. Stop acting like whiny little kids!
  97. JosephP.
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    A fantastic, original story, captivating gameplay mechanics and a wonderfully crafted world. A superb game for FPS and RPG fans alike.
  98. BenM.
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    I'm not one to blindly follow the hype of a game, but I admittedly could not wait until Bioshock was released. I am happy to report that it is everything I could have hoped for and more! Outstanding graphics, awe-inspiring sounds and atmospheric effects, solid story telling in the style of Half-Life 2 (with the addition of audio tapes acting as a narrative), and one of the most I'm not one to blindly follow the hype of a game, but I admittedly could not wait until Bioshock was released. I am happy to report that it is everything I could have hoped for and more! Outstanding graphics, awe-inspiring sounds and atmospheric effects, solid story telling in the style of Half-Life 2 (with the addition of audio tapes acting as a narrative), and one of the most visceral and heart-pounding gaming experienced I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. The only minor gripes I currently have are the lack of a speed modified when playing with the keyboard and mouse (you can't walk without a 360 controller!), and the fact that the game utilizes the SecuROM DRM system to authenticate the game to a limited (5 currently) number of PCs, even on the Steam version. Beware of this fact. That being said, if you like games, then there's something to like about Bioshock and you really should check it out.… Expand
  99. ROBO_LEADER
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    Amazing. Irrational does an amazing job of sucking you in and not letting you out. The controls are well laid out, the graphics are great, even on DX9 with low settings, mainly because the style is held up so well, and the story is extremly well integrated into the game, but you could ignore it alltogether and still have a blast. This game actually had me playing untill my hands cramped, Amazing. Irrational does an amazing job of sucking you in and not letting you out. The controls are well laid out, the graphics are great, even on DX9 with low settings, mainly because the style is held up so well, and the story is extremly well integrated into the game, but you could ignore it alltogether and still have a blast. This game actually had me playing untill my hands cramped, I wanted to delve even further into Rapture, I wanted to complete it all in one sittng, like watching a great movie or reading your favorite book, you just don't want to stop playing. Kiss your schedule goodbye, this is by far, the best new game for two years.… Expand
  100. YermakirumY.
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    Very good game.
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best PC Game of 2007
3
#3 Most Discussed PC Game of 2007
2
#2 Most Shared PC Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 44 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. PC Gamer UK
    95
    A dark and astonishing masterpiece...I spend my career, and my gaming life, waiting for a moment when a game just astonishes me, when I can't believe what I'm seeing, what I'm doing. BioShock has five. [Sept 2007, p.66]
    Read full review
  2. Eurogamer
    100
    The hours spent playing this masterpiece were the perfect encapsulation of why videogaming is such a favourite waste of time for so many of us. Thrilling, terrifying, moving, confusing, amusing, compelling, and very very dark. BioShock isn't simply the sign of gaming realising its true cinematic potential, but one where a game straddles so many entertainment art forms so expertly that it's the best demonstration yet how flexible this medium can be. It's no longer just another shooter wrapped up in a pretty game engine, but a story that exists and unfolds inside the most convincing and elaborate and artistic game world ever conceived.
    Read full review
  3. IGN
    97
    There is art here, despite what many would say isn't possible with games, from Roger Ebert to game designers like Hideo Kojima... BioShock stands as a monolithic example of the convergence of entertaining gameplay and an irresistibly sinister, engrossing storyline that encompasses a host of multifaceted characters. This is an essential gaming experience.
    Read full review
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