BioShock 4, announced over four years ago, remains shrouded in mystery with few confirmed details. Despite this, the anticipation for the next installment in this acclaimed series continues to grow.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything we know so far about BioShock 4, including development insights, gameplay speculations, and setting rumors.
Key Takeaways
- Cloud Chamber, a studio founded by 2K Games, is developing the game. The team has experienced developers from previous BioShock titles and other notable game series.
- Expected to maintain its iconic first-person shooter gameplay, the game is rumored to have an open-world setting in a 1960s Antarctic city called Borealis.
- There is no official release date yet, but it's anticipated to be a current-gen exclusive, likely for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
BioShock 4 Development and the Team Bringing the Game to Life
BioShock 4 is being developed by Cloud Chamber, a studio founded by 2K Games. Kelley Gilmore, a veteran from Firaxis Games, leads the development team.
The team includes experienced developers from the BioShock series, such as creative director Hoagy de la Plante, art director Scott Sinclair, and design director Jonathan Pelling.
Additionally, the team has members who have worked on big video game series like Call of Duty, Assassin’s Creed, and Star Wars, bringing a mix of rich experience and fresh ideas.
BioShock 4 Platforms and Possible Release Date
In 2019, 2K Games announced that work on the next BioShock game had begun, expecting it to take several years to develop.
Given the long wait and the current generation of consoles, it’s predicted that BioShock 4 will be a current-gen exclusive, likely available on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
However, as of 2024, no official release date has been confirmed, and details remain limited.
What to Expect from BioShock 4’s Gameplay
While exact gameplay details are still unknown, BioShock 4 is expected to keep its famous first-person shooter style.
A 2019 press release hinted that the game will continue with its narrative-driven, first-person gameplay.
Job listings from Cloud Chamber suggest the game might have an open-world setting, moving away from the more linear levels of past BioShock games.
These listings also mention an “urban crowd system” and a “systemic tribal ecology” with possibly hostile AI, suggesting a more dynamic and immersive experience.
Setting Rumors: Where Might BioShock 4 Take Place?
The settings of BioShock games have always been a big part of their appeal, with the underwater city of Rapture and the floating city of Columbia becoming iconic in gaming history.
For BioShock 4, rumors suggest it might be set in a 1960s Antarctic city called Borealis, which could connect it to the themes and stories of previous games.
While these claims are not confirmed, they fit with the series’ tradition of creating unique and atmospheric settings.
Additional Developments: New Team Members and Technology
Since the game’s announcement, several updates and rumors have come up.
Liz Albl, known for her work on Far Cry 4 and Ghost of Tsushima, has joined Cloud Chamber as part of the BioShock 4 story team.
Job listings also hint at the use of Unreal Engine 5, suggesting that BioShock 4 could use advanced technology for its development.
Movie Adaptation: BioShock Movie in the Works at Netflix
Besides the game, a BioShock movie is being developed at Netflix. Directed by Francis Lawrence and written by Michael Green, this live-action movie is one of the platform’s most highly anticipated releases.
However, it is expected to be separate from the game, with no significant crossover between the two.
Stay Tuned for New BioShock 4 Updates!
BioShock 4 promises to bring a new and thrilling chapter to this beloved franchise. There are experienced developers at the helm, and the tantalizing rumors about its setting and gameplay add to the excitement.
More official details are expected to be released in the coming months, so make sure to check back occasionally for all the latest information and announcements.
