Bioshock Infinite

Bioshock Infinite uses a modified Unreal Engine

Fans of the series will know what to expect by now in terms of the gameplay, the somewhat steampunk atmosphere and the 40s and 50s style music playing via gramophones. These themes have not been milked however, more so adapted. Infinite, set in a heaven-like country named Columbia has an open-world feel to it, despite being relatively closed and linear, the impression of the open world comes from the ability to occasionally walk streets where many shops and houses are available for looting. All vending is still done via vending machines, as was in the original two titles, some would say it's good that the roots are largely still apparent, whereas others would have liked to have seen several shopkeepers throughout the game where applicable.

The game's arsenal of weapons is reasonable, but boasts little more than the standard machine gun, sniper rifle, rocket launcher etc. all of the weapons are available to be looted from fallen enemies or scattered around Columbia, the weapons can also be upgraded in numerous categories such as capacity and damage. To accompany firearms are Vigors, which are basically magic spells, mostly based on the elements. There are a total of eight Vigors to acquire and the use of which requires salts (a twist on mana/magicka).

Vigors can be found or purchased as well as upgraded.

Elizabeth will gather items for Booker

The story follows Booker De Witt upon his journey to get a girl (Elizabeth) in exchange for his debt being written off. The development of the main characters and the building of their relationship with each other is the core of the plot, with in game conversations gradually unravelling the mysteries. The story carries great depth and can get the player confused easily if the game is not granted their full attention. Aside from the main characters, there are several others who drive the plot, including Songbird, (which seems to be the Infinite version of the Big Daddy from the previous titles) playing the role as Elizabeth's guardian.

Bioshock Infinite is a divine first person shooter, offering something fresh to a saturated genre, shying away from the ever popular online play and ranking systems and instead putting 100% into story, character development and atmosphere. It has you gripped from the beginning and is fast paced from start to finish. 

Bioshock Infinite came onto the market during a stale period for games and came with little competition, only the very vaguely similar Gears of War: Judgement. This game however would stand out among a dozen headline worthy games.  

The engaging story is accompanied by excellent FPS ELEMENTS

SCORE: 95%. Will games ever get much better than this?