Does BioShock Infinite rise to greatness or initiate the Rapture? Find out in our review!
Gameplay in BioShock Infinite is fun, heavy handed, and furious. Dewitt is more than capable with pistols, assault rifles, or machine guns but it is the Sky Hook that supplies the unique gameplay element in BioShock Infinite. The Sky Hook is not only the way that Dewitt maneuvers around the environment but it can also pull of some of the most brutal melee kills I have ever seen. Vigors are also available that alter the chemistry of Booker’s body and allow him to use different powers.
From Possession being used on machines and humans to releasing a Murder of Crows, Vigors offer powerful upgrades that give Booker an advantage in the battlefield. After upgrading the guns and Vigors you have at various vending machines in Columbia, Booker will become more powerful than his enemies with only a battle with the occasional Handyman serving any real challenge. Even the Motorized Patriots are easy to take out with a well-placed shotgun to the back. Elizabeth is also the best companion in video games. She is never in the way, never has to be protected, and provides ammo, health, and supplies when needed.
This lack of challenge would normally be a problem, but the story and mystery of Columbia will continue to inspire you to push forward. There is only one very frustrating level at the end but the payoff is worth the frustration.
The Sky Hook is awesome. Period.
BioShock Infinite is a true achievement in video games. It finds and interesting mix of science and religion while also throwing in topics such as racism and control that all equate to a truly amazing experience. While the edges of the graphics and details of the are not smoothed out on the console version, the story and gameplay are both exciting and engaging.
The addition of the Sky Hook is the only true unique element of gameplay, its use to transverse the environment and savagely murder your enemies is a refreshing turn of pace. While the game does seem to drag on to long, the pay off at the end of the story is worth it. There are also numerous secrets and side missions, along with the 1999 Mode, that scream multiple playthroughs. With three DLC packs coming in the future, BioShock Infinite has plans for the future to allow players to discover the past in the present.
The vigors alter gameplay and give Dewitt power over his enemies.
Score: 8 / 10
