The Official "BioShock" Discussion Thread! Seriously. I mean it this time.

[CKMorpheus]

Since the game is less than a month from release, I thought it was time to give one of the biggest games of the year it's own thread.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/60/Bioshockcoverfinal.jpg



BioShock is said by the developers to include a great deal of interactive environments and player-driven choices, called emergent gameplay, with Ken Levine stating its interactivity would be "unprecedented". While the term has been used for a variety of games, such as the popular Grand Theft Auto series, it is believed that this gameplay will borrow highly from System Shock and System Shock 2. Another point of focus is the "AI ecology", which will dynamically search for opportunities to fulfill their purpose. The player can even exploit the ecology to his/her advantage, making enemies and NPCs turn against each other or otherwise manipulate them into helping the player.


One of the more informative official game sites around, the Cult of Rapture (http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/home.html) is full of great downloads and information. Including a very busy forum, wallpapers, buddy icons, screenshots, podcasts (and lots of them), gameplay videos, in-game plasmid examples.

Sign up for the forums and you can get an awesome gamer pic or theme for your 360, one of the many perks of being a 'cult member.'

I picked up my pre-order at Best Buy the other day.

Can't wait to finally have this in my hand. System Shock 2 is one of my top 5 games of all time.

All further news and updates about the game should be posted here.

[Michael Corvin]

Funny you posted this. I'm sitting here debating the $70 SE or the $40 pre-order offer at Liongames.com that expires today. $30 is a huge difference. I'm leaning towards the $40 and using the difference on Metroid or Half-Life which is also only $40 there.


Sign up for the forums and you can get an awesome gamer pic or theme for your 360, one of the many perks of being a 'cult member.'

Cool. Didn't know that.

[CKMorpheus]

Cool. Didn't know that.

You can find out more about the perks and how to get them here:

http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/perks.html

[KurrptSenate]

I really know nothing about this game, or the ones that came before it. I'm usually on the fence with all FPS adventure games that do not have a strong, online element.

That being said, I will say my interest has peaked after getting that Bioshock faceplate :x

[CKMorpheus]

Live outside of North America? Have your eye set on a collector's edition of BioShock? The Cult of the Rapture website outlines which countries will be getting them:


I have been getting messages asking about an update on the BioShock Collector's Edition for countries other than the US and Canada, and I finally have an update for you.

The Collector's Edition will be available at selected retailers in Australia and New Zealand as well as most European countries including:

* Austria
* Belgium
* Denmark
* France
* Germany
* Italy
* Netherlands
* Norway
* Spain
* Sweden
* Switzerland UK

The BioShock Collector's Edition is available for PC and Xbox 360 and contains the game in a limited edition embossed steel case, a Making Of DVD, Soundtrack CD, hand finished resin figurine (14cm height).

[KurrptSenate]

that figurine sounds bad ass


I assume its that robot looking thing on the cover?

[Michael Corvin]

^ Yes, the Big Daddy.

For those clueless Americans, like myself, 14cm is about 5.5."

[taffer]

I really know nothing about this game, or the ones that came before it.

The System Shock series is old. The first one is a DOS game that came out in 1994. The sequel came out in 1999 for Windows. They are FPS/RPG/horror games all mixed together.

Have you ever played Deus Ex? It is very similar in concept with the same FPS/RPG ideas.

[KurrptSenate]

it sounds vaugely familiar

[CKMorpheus]

I really know nothing about this game, or the ones that came before it. I'm usually on the fence with all FPS adventure games that do not have a strong, online element.

That being said, I will say my interest has peaked after getting that Bioshock faceplate :x

Your interest will really get peaked after you check out some of the videos they offer.

http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/downloads.html

And what faceplate are you talking about?

[KurrptSenate]

theres this special edition Bioshock faceplate that they are giving to all EB/GS managers (one per store)

through my manager friend. I could post the link again here showing the faceplate. It's absolutely brilliant.

Unfortunately, they want you to stand the xbox vertical for the plate. Yea, won't be doing that (ate 2 of my games that way)


http://cgi.ebay.com/Limited-Edition-Bioshock-faceplate-for-xbox360_W0QQitemZ330149363052QQihZ014QQcategoryZ122517QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[CKMorpheus]

that figurine sounds bad ass


I assume its that robot looking thing on the cover?

http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/features/finalbdfigure/side1.jpg

And this is a preliminary look at the Limited Edition content...

http://kotaku.com/assets/resources/2007/04/bioshock_le.jpg

[KurrptSenate]

wow

that makes my Lost Planet figurine look like ass :lol:

[UncleGramps]

Now that's how you make a limited edition! Looks really nice - think I'll be picking it up.

[msdmoney]

This game looks great, but I think I am going to wait until I upgrade my PC again after looking at the system requirements. I want to upgrade soon anyways since Crysis is also coming but the upgrade may be a ways off yet. Is the PC getting a LE set too? I want to get the PC version because I can't stand the controller for FPS's.

[taffer]

Is there a Little Sister figurine too?

[kurupt]

I can't wait for this game. I'm looking forward to this much more than Halo 3. I'm not much of a PC gamer so I'll probably opt for the 360 version.

[CKMorpheus]

This game looks great, but I think I am going to wait until I upgrade my PC again after looking at the system requirements. I want to upgrade soon anyways since Crysis is also coming but the upgrade may be a ways off yet. Is the PC getting a LE set too? I want to get the PC version because I can't stand the controller for FPS's.


The BioShock Limited Edition will be available to US and Canada exclusively at GameStop and EB (this i didn't know) for US$59.99 (PC LE) and US$69.99 (Xbox 360™ LE). The Limited Edition will also be available in other territories and details about ordering a copy will be coming soon.

[JasonF]

I really know nothing about this game, or the ones that came before it. I'm usually on the fence with all FPS adventure games that do not have a strong, online element.

System Shock 2 is hands down the scariest game I've ever played. You play the role of a soldier who wakens from cryo-sleep on an abandoned space ship, trapped between a psychopathic computer and an army of murderous aliens.

[Draven]

Funny you posted this. I'm sitting here debating the $70 SE or the $40 pre-order offer at Liongames.com that expires today. $30 is a huge difference. I'm leaning towards the $40 and using the difference on Metroid or Half-Life which is also only $40 there.


Thanks for the heads up. I just placed an order through Liongames for the $40 (traded in a couple of games too) - I've just heard so many great things about the game that I thought "what the hell?"

[Decker]

Yup. I preordered that from Liongames as well. As nice as that LE is (VERY NICE), I need to save some jack with Halo 3, Mass Effect, Half Life Orange Box, GTA IV and Rock Band still on the horizon. I'm almost glad I don't own another next-gen system.

[Supermallet]

Hmm, I may have to buy that LE set, especially since I'm skipping the ungodly expensive edition of Halo.

[SuperBatMan]

I'm very interested in this game. I haven't really read alot about it, but it looks interesting, and like something that I would really get into.

Metroid and Bioshock. My Wii and 360 will be doing overtime in August.

[K&AJones]

I assume this thread is for both PC & 360 versions but no matter; I'm all over this game. I did play S.S on the pc and yes Bioshock will be even better. I've been reading several forums and this game is a "must have". I think they timed the release just right in August before Halo3 and the flood of some great games. It'll fill the viod till then.

Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[CKMorpheus]

And yes this is for the PC and 360 version of Bioshock.

I'm primarily a PC gamer, but I just don't think my computer is up to snuff for this, and I'd kinda like to sit back in bed and take the game in like a good book. I'll definitely re-buy it when I have a great PC again, because this game seems endlessly replayable!

[Decker]

It's weird that Bioshock has no multiplayer. I'm surprised since it looks like such a cool FPS, but I guess you have to respect the developers for sticking to their guns (they felt it would take away from the single-player game, whatever that means).

[Michael Corvin]

It's weird that Bioshock has no multiplayer. I'm surprised since it looks like such a cool FPS, but I guess you have to respect the developers for sticking to their guns (they felt it would take away from the single-player game, whatever that means).

I applaud them for it.

Just because a game has guns and takes place in the first person perspective doesn't mean it automatically need a multiplayer mode. Especially when 95% of them are shoe-horned in and don't end up get used anyway. See Prey and the Darkness.

[kmac2878]

Funny you posted this. I'm sitting here debating the $70 SE or the $40 pre-order offer at Liongames.com that expires today. $30 is a huge difference. I'm leaning towards the $40 and using the difference on Metroid or Half-Life which is also only $40 there.

So is this place legit? I read some threads at CAG and TeamXbox, but I'm still hesitant - have you dealt with them before? I'd like to trade in some games, too -

[Zodo]

How long is this game supposed to be? I'd hate to buy a single player only game that lasts 10hrs.

[CKMorpheus]

How long is this game supposed to be? I'd hate to buy a single player only game that lasts 10hrs.

If it's anything like System Shock, it'll take quite a lot longer than 10 hours to get through.

[Edison]

So is this place legit? I read some threads at CAG and TeamXbox, but I'm still hesitant - have you dealt with them before? I'd like to trade in some games, too -

I was wondering that too, I heard of them just recently as they seem to be the sponsor for the gamers with jobs podcast, that I just started listening to thanks to another Video Game talk thread.

[edstein]

I signed up for the Bioshock forum. I never played SS2 but I did play Deus Ex. The vids and pics for this game look amazing. Can't wait.

[Joe Molotov]

I want this thing. Bad.

[Michael Corvin]

So is this place legit? I read some threads at CAG and TeamXbox, but I'm still hesitant - have you dealt with them before? I'd like to trade in some games, too -

I've never tried them but many CAGers swear by them. The guy that owns/runs the site is a member of CAG. Apparently he has a B&M store where he sells the used games. He obviously makes a ton on those, so he covers the losses he takes on the pre-orders on the site. This generates word of mouth buzz and he doesn't have to advertise, further saving money.

That's just from what I gather reading CAG.

[K&AJones]

If it's anything like System Shock, it'll take quite a lot longer than 10 hours to get through.


I don't think the Dev's even know. I was watching the in game footage with commentary explaining how one could have three different outcomes with the same scene. I get the idea that this is not a point A to B to C and so on with defined perimeter. Heck if anything I'm just going to take a tour around and see the sites.


Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[dgc]

:drool:

The CE:

http://webpages.charter.net/danb/BioLEbox.jpg

Glad I'm preordered. Come to big Daddy!!!

[Michael Corvin]

Nice, but are the Europeans getting the same SE as us?

[Supermallet]

That's what I'm wondering. I did upgrade my Bioshock reserve at Gamestop to the CE, though.

[taffer]

Nice, but are the Europeans getting the same SE as us?

I believe that is the European SE. Notice the 18 in the red circle in the bottom corner. That is what their ratings system looks like.

It would look like this here: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/12/ESRB_M.png

[dgc]

Nice, but are the Europeans getting the same SE as us?

Pretty much. not sure of the packaging though. I placed my order with EB Games:

http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=200317

The GameStop Exclusive Bioshock Limited Edition includes:
Bioshock the game
Bioshock "Big Daddy" Figurine
Soundtrack CD featuring music of BioShock plus remixes of period music
Behind the scenes DVD

http://www.ebgames.com/common/images/lbox/200317b.jpg

[Michael Corvin]

I believe that is the European SE. Notice the 18 in the red circle in the bottom corner. That is what their ratings system looks like.

It would look like this here: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/12/ESRB_M.png

That was my point. This is a pic of the Euro SE. Not necessarily an indicator of what we are getting.

[UncleGramps]

I pre-ordered the L.E. earlier in the week. :up:

[starseed1981]

Can't wait for this. It's gonna be my first new game purchase since February.

[Michael Corvin]

DAMNIT!

Cult of Rapture was giving away 10 of the limited faceplates. Just saw it on the site. The contest ended today. :hairpull:

[msdmoney]

I actually preordered the PC special edition at gamestop. I feel like I committed a sin by preordering...... at gamestop.......for full price.... not the regular edition but the speical edition. My excuse, I'm a sucker for special editions (even though I will never use it or watch or read the extra content), and I had some left over EB credit that I had been sitting on for a long time.

Now I just need to upgrade my video card to play this, which I was already planning on doing for other games like Crysis anyways.

[CKMorpheus]

The game is 2 weeks away from it's release date... would we have heard about it going gold soon?

EDIT: Nevermind, I guess it has, since there are already reviews...

Here's a quote from PC Gamer UK


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]

[CKMorpheus]

Big Daddy statues are making their way to stores across the US. Expect sightings starting this week.

And in case you need help locating the 6 foot tall Big Daddy while visiting these stores, here's a spec of what he looks like:
http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/features/bigdaddy/bigdaddy.jpg

Please take pictures of the Big Daddy statues you find and post them in the official Big Daddy Sighting thread (http://forums.2kgames.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2358) . I'll take the good ones and make an official gallery!

The following stores will be receiving Big Daddy statues:

#1363 GameStop
Broadway & 33rd
1282 Broadway
New York, NY

#2736 GameStop
Park Center
6949 S. Park Center Drive
Salt Lake City, UT

#4437 EB Games
San Franscisco/Powell Street
151 Powell Street
San Francisco, CA

#0816 GameStop
C/o Barnes & Noble
2201 Preston Road, Suite E
Plano, TX

#4619 EB Games
Universal Citywalk
1000 Universal Studios Blvd, Ste 101
Universal City, CA

#1979 GameStop
Bellevue Square
248 Bellevue Square
Bellevue, WA

Here's a photo of some random person standing next to one.
http://www.emanu.se/kimdaddy.jpg

[CKMorpheus]

More reviews:

OXM UK gave it a 10/10.
http://www.n4g.com/M/8/Images//55000/55508_med.jpg (http://www.n4g.com/M/8/Images//55000/55508.jpg)
-Inconceivably great plot
-Tough, scary combat
-Perfect location design
-Stunning soundtrack and audio effects
-Endless variety of weapons

[thegame370]

Wow, getting even more excited for this game by the minute!

[JasonF]

I am soooooooooooo ready to play this game.

Is it the 21st yet?

How about now?

How about now?

How about now?

[Raul3]

I also ordered the PC LE.
It'll be waiting for me Aug 22 when I come back from Hawaii!!!

[spainlinx0]

I now REALLY wish I could afford a 360. :(

[lukewarmwater]

This game looks awesome and I really want to play it, but my pc is too outdated.

At the very least I would have to buy some memory, and even then I don't know if my processor is up to snuff.

Looks good though.

[taffer]

This game looks awesome and I really want to play it, but my pc is too outdated.

At the very least I would have to buy some memory, and even then I don't know if my processor is up to snuff.

Looks good though.

And it also requires a shader model 3.0 video card. Pretty much every 360 port to PC game requires a shader model 3.0 card.

[ChrisHicks]

I just recently put my order in for the 360 LE. I can't wait...

[porieux]

I preordered the LE at the local Gamestop, my first time ever pre-ordering a game. The guy at the register was really excited that I was pre-ordering something, LOL. Maybe they get paid extra for that or something..

[House]

They don't get paid extra, they just get to keep their jobs.

[Lastblade]

They don't get paid extra, they just get to keep their jobs.

Who knew they would be so excited to spend another day in retail hell? :D

[fernsita]

feels like i have been waiting for this game forever. now it is just around the corner! looks like all the hype is real, it is getting amazing reviews like the oxm 10/10!! wooo hooo!

[KurrptSenate]

feels like i have been waiting for this game forever. now it is just around the corner! looks like all the hype is real, it is getting amazing reviews like the oxm 10/10!! wooo hooo!


I'm sure that can't be biased :/

[fernsita]

well that isnt the only amazing review, look at these:

PCG UK: 9.5

Xbox World: 9.4

Alternative Press: 10

Gamers: 9.8

Game Informer: 10

a game doesnt get reviews like this unless it is great, no question.

[taffer]

feels like i have been waiting for this game forever.

I have been waiting since 1999 after I finished System Shock 2.

a game doesnt get reviews like this unless it is great, no question.

... or unless the reviewers have been paid off. :)

[K&AJones]

Another killer in game footage showing the effects of your decision process and with some narration. This one is pretty good and long.

http://xboxmovies.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/4951/Narrated-Gameplay-Trailer/

Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[Liver&Onions]

just pre-ordered from amazon. Can't wait for this one.

[Giantrobo]

I still think the game seems tedious but I'll still give it a shot. :lol:

[slop101]

For once, I think the extra $10 for the Super-Snazzy-Edition is actually worth it:


http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/8945/biostuffgd0.jpg

[Maxflier]

As much as I hate to do it, I guess i'll make my way over to Gamestop this afternoon and pre-order that sweet ass LE.
Gamestop is the only place with the above pictured goodies, right?

[edstein]

I'm going to do the same thing Max. That's an awesome set.

[JasonF]

I still think the game seems tedious but I'll still give it a shot. :lol:
Blasphemer! :lol:

[Giantrobo]

Blasphemer! :lol:

:lol:

[black preacher]If having mah own opinion is wroooong-ah....I don't wanna be right-ah! [/black preacher]

[dvd182]

Playing the System Shock games isn't required to fully enjoy this, is it?

I have a really bad OCDish issue with jumping into books, television and movie series without starting with the first one, but it should like this game should stand on its own pretty well.

[Draven]

Everything I've heard indicates this has almost nothing do with earlier "Shock" games.

You'll be fine.

[JasonF]

Bioshock is a completely separate setting and story from System Shock. The only similarity is that it's some of the same developers and they are aiming for the same "feel" to the game. Like two different Hitchcock movies -- you don't need to see Vertigo to enjoy Rear Window and vice versa.

[Supermallet]

Right, I think they called it Bioshock to let fans of the System Shock games know that the team is back at it, but the games, AFAIK, take place in two entirely different universes. Still, it's more than worth your time to play the first two System Shock games.

[kmac2878]

well that isnt the only amazing review, look at these:

PCG UK: 9.5

Xbox World: 9.4

Alternative Press: 10

Gamers: 9.8

Game Informer: 10

a game doesnt get reviews like this unless it is great, no question.

Nice - have it pre-ordered - can't wait to play this game!

[CKMorpheus]

Some interesting new updates!


BIOSHOCK HAS GONE GOLD
August 10, 2007

The title of this announcement says it all. BIOSHOCK HAS GONE GOLD! I'm not sure there's anything else I need to say about that, except WOO! And perhaps click my heels in joy.



BIOSHOCK COMES TO SPIKE TV THIS SUNDAY
August 10, 2007

Experience Rapture as you never have before. Tune in to Spike TV's new original action drama series "The Kill Point" starring John Leguizamo and Donnie Wahlberg this Sunday night, August 12, at 9pm/8c to witness the worldwide debut of the launch trailer of 2K’s upcoming video game, BioShock. And after the 60-second trailer, keep watching for the surprise announcement by Game Head’s Geoff Keighley.

You won't want to miss it. Tune in.

- Elizabeth

[edstein]

Regarding the big announcement: Bioshock the Movie? :drool:

[Joe Molotov]

keep watching for the surprise announcement by Game Head’s Geoff Keighley.

For a second, I read that as Geoff Kleinman.

[edstein]

It'd be cool if Geoff K. played games. It's a rare day that he posts in the gaming underbelly of DVDtalk.

[JasonF]

Oh. My. God! There was a Bioshock booth at Wizard World Chicago today and I got to play the game hands-on (360 version) for about 10 minutes. I also spent some time watching others play. This game is amazing. I'm trying to find words for how awesome it is, and there are none. This has, hands down, the best graphics I've seen at the 360. And the gameplay (at least what I saw) was great. One example -- one of your weapons gives you the ability to shoot an electric bolt at your enemies. Pretty cool, but then there was a point where a couple of enemies were standing in a pool of water -- and so you can zap the water and it electrocutes all the enemies standing in the water!

I am so ready for this game.

By the way, the booth was staffed by 2K employees. I asked them if they were releasing a demo. Their response was "Stand by. That's all I can tell you."

[lordwow]

To CE or not to CE... that is the question.

[Liver&Onions]

It'd be cool if Geoff K. played games. It's a rare day that he posts in the gaming underbelly of DVDtalk.

I do believe he does casually.

[Decker]

To CE or not to CE... that is the question.
If the difference is really only $10, go for the CE; it looks mega-awesome. I sprung for the liongames deal and for $45, I'm very happy with what I'm getting. But like I said, that CE looks sweet!

Can't believe it's only like a week away!

[Flay]

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[Edison]

^ Maybe there should be a spoiler tag? Up until <i>a few seconds ago</i> I didn't know how I got to Rapture, and then I quit watching.

I'm still really looking forward to this game (CE pre-ordered), and Garnett was <u>gushing</u> about BioShock this week on the 1UpYours podcast (no spoilers).

[JasonF]

^ Maybe there should be a spoiler tag? Up until <i>a few seconds ago</i> I didn't know how I got to Rapture, and then I quit watching.

You get to Rapture literally within the first 60 seconds of gameplay. So technically, it's a spoiler, but it's a spoiler like telling someone "Star Wars opens with an Imperial Star Destroyer shooting at a Rebel Cruiser."

[lordwow]

You get to Rapture literally within the first 60 seconds of gameplay. So technically, it's a spoiler, but it's a spoiler like telling someone "Star Wars opens with an Imperial Star Destroyer shooting at a Rebel Cruiser."

Spoiler Tags PLZ!

Haha, jk.

Anyway, I ponied up for the Bioshock CE. It's tax-free weekend here in MA, and the website let me purchase it tax-free. Works for me.

[K&AJones]

I went by B.B today and did the pre-order deal. It's really hard to say if this will fly off the shelf right away or take a couple of weeks. I just know I wasn't going to take a chance. I think with football (Madden) and Halo 3 coming up Bioshock might get passed over. Plus you can't really compare this and say," oh yea, this Bioshock is a killer game just like.....". But I think this will sell 1 million in the first two weeks.


Kenny J.

[kurupt]

The only game that I'm looking more forward to than this is Metroid Prime 3. Unfortunately for my wallet, they come out within a week of each other. Halo be damned, these two will fulfill my shooter needs for the rest of the year.

[edstein]

Don't forget the trailer on spike TV tonight.

[flashburn]

Any idea about how much time it will take to finish the game? I am trying to decide on whether I should buy or rent it.

[Edison]

Any idea about how much time it will take to finish the game? I am trying to decide on whether I should buy or rent it.

From the 1UpYours podcast I gathered 12-14 hours without doing any of the 'extra' stuff, and 20-ish with the side missions/errands.

[lordwow]

From the 1UpYours podcast I gathered 12-14 hours without doing any of the 'extra' stuff, and 20-ish with the side missions/errands.

I wonder if there will be a few different outcomes for added replayability.

[kmac2878]

Demo is up - downloading it right now!!! 1.3GB!

:banana:

[1998Nole]

Demo is up - downloading it right now!!! 1.3GB!

:banana:
My xbox picked a great day too die :grumble:

[JasonF]

So was the big announcement the release of the demo?

[slop101]

Live is down. -ohbfrank-

[lordwow]

So was the big announcement the release of the demo?
Ya.

[Joe Molotov]

27%!

[UncleGramps]

My xbox picked a great day too die :grumble:
I'm in the same boat. I don't mind missing the demo since I'd rather go into the full game "cold", but not having a 360 for the game's launch will be a pisser. I'll have the CE in my hands, so I'll have console myself with the "Making Of" DVD and soundtrack until I can play. Will my wife think less of me if I sit in the corner and mumble to myself while stroking my Big Daddy figure? ...It occurs to me that there's just no way to make that last sentence sound normal.

[edstein]

Downloading demo now, which I'm guessing was the surprise.

[Draven]

Same here - going slow though, so it'll have to wait until tomorrow.

[nickdawgy]

I just started downloading the demo now.

[K&AJones]

I hit the download about two minutes after it was anounced. Almost 2 1/2 hours later I'm almost at 45%. I wouldn't doubt it's going to be slow over the next several days with everyone trying to get it. Plus at 1.35Gig!! Ouch...

Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[argh923]

Just curious...can anyone explain to me what makes this game different than the average FPS? Not hating at all...I'm honestly curious, because I'm not a big FPS fan, yet this game is getting a ton of hype.

[K&AJones]

For one this is not your typical run-&-gun FPS. The only game of recent that maybe resembles it was System Shock for the PC several years ago that had a great following. Probably the one aspect of the game that has evertyone talking is what decisions you make determains your fate and the outcome can be completely different. In other words you can take a level and do three or four different things with each having a different outcome. It's not a point A to B but more of a multiple choice. No two can play the game the same way. Check these demos /trailers out along with the offical site and see why......

http://www.2kgames.com/bioshock/enter.html

http://www.gametrailers.com/search.php?s=bioshock&str_type=movies&ac=1


Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[JasonF]

Well, after 3 hours and 45 minutes of downloading, the Bioshock demo is 56% complete. I think I'd better let this one finish up overnight!

[MasterofDVD]

It didn't take the demo that long at all for me. I started it, ran down the road to pick up something at the store and it was ready by the time I got home. That almost makes up for how long I had to wait for the Stranglehold demo the other day when it went up.

[argh923]

For one this is not your typical run-&-gun FPS. The only game of recent that maybe resembles it was System Shock for the PC several years ago that had a great following. Probably the one aspect of the game that has evertyone talking is what decisions you make determains your fate and the outcome can be completely different. In other words you can take a level and do three or four different things with each having a different outcome. It's not a point A to B but more of a multiple choice. No two can play the game the same way. Check these demos /trailers out along with the offical site and see why......

http://www.2kgames.com/bioshock/enter.html

http://www.gametrailers.com/search.php?s=bioshock&str_type=movies&ac=1


Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

So is it like a FPS with RPG/branching storyline elements?

[Crizzar]

abrg, you're going to be much better off reading this thread in its entirety and checking out all the movies and previews from sites like IGN and Gamespot. This game is going to be epic and it's really hard to give it the elevator pitch summary.

That said, I just finished the demo and it's absolutely amazing. I highly recommend turning off the lights and turning up the volume on a surround system or headphones. The atmosphere and ambient sounds are phenomenal. Those who remember System Shock 2 fondly will have a warm, cozy familiar feeling which will subsequently be shattered by creepiness.

I was going to try to hold out for the Toys R Us sale or a good promotion for it, but it's now become a full-price release-day purchase.

[CKMorpheus]

30 percent done! Arg!

[mogwai]

It's unfortunate it's taking so long for it to download for some of you -- but trust me, it's worth the wait. I had every intention of buying this game, and have had it on pre-order for some time now, but this sealed it. Even from this short demo, one can grasp how brilliant this game is. And the graphics, sound, and overall atmosphere of the game are simply stunning. This is how I wish all games could look and sound. Glad this demo came out to tide me over till the release date.

[lordwow]

When I woke up this morning it was done as I had the 360 on background download when I went to bed at about 12:30 (started at 9:45). I'll try it out when I get off work.

[Joe Molotov]

Best game ever.

[Mok]

I am soooo sold on this game now that I have had a chance to play the demo. I wanted more I didn't want it to end. I can't wait till next week!!

[JasonF]

Played through the demo before work this morning. Soooooooo good.

[PixyJunket]

I'll give it a try when I get home.

[Edison]

I too already had the CE pre-ordered, but even with everything I've heard and seen the demo is <B>phenomenal</B>! I can't wait until next week. :(

[House]

What killer app is coming out for PS3 next week?

[KurrptSenate]

went home and started downloading the demo

hopefully this demo will completely change my mind and force my hand to make a purchase

[House]

What is the best buy preorder special?

[edstein]

What killer app is coming out for PS3 next week?

You might want to post that question in the PS3 thread.

http://forum.dvdtalk.com/showthread.php?p=8070254#post8070254

[Edison]

What killer app is coming out for PS3 next week?

GRAW 2 comes out the 22nd, or was this supposed to be [sarcasm]?

What is the best buy preorder special?

They have $10 off any game with a Madden 08 preorder (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp;jsessionid=MEWDMDTL4MXW3KC4D3EVAGQ?type=category&id=pcmcat119200050013), but GameStop/EB Games are the only ones that have the Collector's Edition if you want that.

http://cache.kotaku.com/assets/resources/2007/04/bioshock_le.jpg

[House]

GRAW 2 comes out the 22nd, or was this supposed to be [sarcasm]?

yes sarcasm :) Oh, i was hoping you would get $10 with pre order of bio shock

[taffer]

For one this is not your typical run-&-gun FPS. The only game of recent that maybe resembles it was System Shock for the PC several years ago that had a great following.

Don't forget Deus Ex, which was also heavily inspired by System Shock.

Basically, yes, these games are FPS/RPG hybrids.

I wonder if there will be a few different outcomes for added replayability.


Supposedly, the end of the game changes depending on whether you killed the Little Sisters or saved them. I have no idea exactly how this works, because what if you kill some and save the rest?

[edstein]

I plan on saving all of the little sisters, at least the first time through.

[argh923]

abrg, you're going to be much better off reading this thread in its entirety and checking out all the movies and previews from sites like IGN and Gamespot. This game is going to be epic and it's really hard to give it the elevator pitch summary.

That said, I just finished the demo and it's absolutely amazing. I highly recommend turning off the lights and turning up the volume on a surround system or headphones. The atmosphere and ambient sounds are phenomenal. Those who remember System Shock 2 fondly will have a warm, cozy familiar feeling which will subsequently be shattered by creepiness.

I was going to try to hold out for the Toys R Us sale or a good promotion for it, but it's now become a full-price release-day purchase.

Well, I've read the thread and read the previews at IGN, and still don't see what makes it epic. I guess I'm just trying to find someone that can explain the hook for the game that I'm apparently not seeing. :shrug:

[KurrptSenate]

yea, I'm definitely in the same boat, coupled with not-so-good experiences with FPS games that aren't online. I will say the premise is interesting, but normally wouldn't warrant a purchase for quite some time.

Maybe the demo will finally "clue me in". We'll see

[taffer]

Well, I've read the thread and read the previews at IGN, and still don't see what makes it epic. I guess I'm just trying to find someone that can explain the hook for the game that I'm apparently not seeing. :shrug:

Play System Shock 2 and/or Deus Ex, then you will see what we mean by the "epicness". It really isn't easy to describe how amazing those games were; you need to experience them for yourself.

[JasonF]

Well, I've read the thread and read the previews at IGN, and still don't see what makes it epic. I guess I'm just trying to find someone that can explain the hook for the game that I'm apparently not seeing. :shrug:

It's a bunch of things.

First, the System Shock games and Deus Ex have great storylines, and all indications are that Bioshock will as well.

Second, the games tend to be a little more open-ended than most shooters. While not exactly sandbox games, you tend to get a little more freedom in where you can roam.

Third, your character has a bunch of abilities. Which makes the game extremely flexible in terms of how you approach different problems and in terms of how you develop your character.

Fourth, these games are atmospheric as hell. If you liked the oh-my-God-I'm-going-to-piss-my-pants feeling of Condemned, you'd love System Shock -- and, the demo and everything I've read suggest, Bioshock as well. And even apart from that, the setting is fully realized. I used to have no idea what an undersea would-be utopia created half a century ago would look like, but after playing the Bioshock demo, I realize the developers got it 100% right.

[Draven]

Deus Ex had the single greatest play mechanic I've ever seen in a video game: the ability to destroy doors.

I came to a door that I wanted to get through. I did not have a key. I did not have a lockpick. I did have a rocket launcher. I got through the door.

If Bioshock has anything that cool, I'll be thrilled with my purchase.

[deadlax]

this has been downloading really slow for me.

[nickdawgy]

I plan on saving all of the little sisters, at least the first time through.

Afraid of the big bad Big Daddy's are ya?

;)

[nickdawgy]

Well, I've read the thread and read the previews at IGN, and still don't see what makes it epic. I guess I'm just trying to find someone that can explain the hook for the game that I'm apparently not seeing. :shrug:

I remember asking something like "what's Bioshock?" in a thread about upcoming games. Everyone here was like "have you lived in a cave" "under a rock", etc.

So I didn't think nothing of it.

Then I read on the Gamestop site about the features, and two things hooked me.

1. I read that you can hack vending machines and change the prices. Seriously, I thought this was so funny.

2. I love the idea of hacking security bots and making them work for me, a la Deus Ex Invisible War.

I spent $85 on the CE pre-order with overnight shipping. My birthday is next week, and I am taking a day off work and saying "happy friggin' birthday" to myself

:)

[argh923]

Play System Shock 2 and/or Deus Ex, then you will see what we mean by the "epicness". It really isn't easy to describe how amazing those games were; you need to experience them for yourself.

What are those games, and what do they have to do with Bioshock? I'm even more confused...

It's a bunch of things.

First, the System Shock games and Deus Ex have great storylines, and all indications are that Bioshock will as well.

Second, the games tend to be a little more open-ended than most shooters. While not exactly sandbox games, you tend to get a little more freedom in where you can roam.

Third, your character has a bunch of abilities. Which makes the game extremely flexible in terms of how you approach different problems and in terms of how you develop your character.

Fourth, these games are atmospheric as hell. If you liked the oh-my-God-I'm-going-to-piss-my-pants feeling of Condemned, you'd love System Shock -- and, the demo and everything I've read suggest, Bioshock as well. And even apart from that, the setting is fully realized. I used to have no idea what an undersea would-be utopia created half a century ago would look like, but after playing the Bioshock demo, I realize the developers got it 100% right.

Now this is more along the lines of what I was looking for. Still don't know what this System Shock is, though...but I'm intrigued, especially with the Condemned atmosphere comparison.

I remember asking something like "what's Bioshock?" in a thread about upcoming games. Everyone here was like "have you lived in a cave" "under a rock", etc.

So I didn't think nothing of it.

Then I read on the Gamestop site about the features, and two things hooked me.

1. I read that you can hack vending machines and change the prices. Seriously, I thought this was so funny.

2. I love the idea of hacking security bots and making them work for me, a la Deus Ex Invisible War.

I spent $85 on the CE pre-order with overnight shipping. My birthday is next week, and I am taking a day off work and saying "happy friggin' birthday" to myself

:)

#1 sounds hilarious. :)

Alright, I'm at least intrigued now.

[JasonF]

System Shock, System Shock 2, and Deus Ex are PC games from the 1994, 1999, and 2000 respectively. Irrational Games -- the studio that developed Bioshock -- developed System Shock 2, and have described Bioshock as a spiritual successor to the System Shock series. Deus Ex is unrelated, but it's got a very similar design to the System Shock games in terms of the flexibility it gives players in how to defeat various obstacles.

[taffer]

What are those games, and what do they have to do with Bioshock? I'm even more confused...

The people that made System Shock are the same people that are making Bioshock. Bioshock is a very loose sequel to those games. The developers do not own the rights to System Shock any longer, so they can't actually call it System Shock 3 or make it a direct sequel, so instead they have always called it a "spiritual successor".

Deus Ex is not technically related to System Shock/Bioshock at all. Deus Ex is a PC game that was heavily inspired by System Shock 2. It has much of the same FPS/RPG and atmospheric feel that System Shock 2 had. Like Dead Rising was inspired by Dawn of the Dead (the whole zombies in a mall theme), Deus Ex was inspired by System Shock 2.

Edit: JasonF beat me to the punch...

[Brent L]

First the Stranglehold demo, and now this?

Awesome.

I'm downloading it right now and I can't wait to play it.

[argh923]

So will someone be able to play this game and understand the storyline and things of that nature without having played the System Shock games?

[lordwow]

Bioshock seems a lot like Deus Ex 2 for Xbox, but without a lot of the lameness.

[taffer]

So will someone be able to play this game and understand the storyline and things of that nature without having played the System Shock games?


Of course. I would imagine that very few people have even heard of the System Shock games, let alone actually played them (which is a shame because they were awesome). They were niche cult PC games.

Bioshock is very loosely based on System Shock. It retains the same creepy atmosphere and the same FPS/RPG style gameplay, and that is basically all. Rapture, Big Daddies, Little Sisters, etc were not in System Shock at all.

Bioshock seems a lot like Deus Ex 2 for Xbox, but without a lot of the lameness.

Yuck. Don't remind me of "Deus Ex 2". There is a reason that Ion Storm went bankrupt shortly after the release of that game... the game sucked. The original Deus Ex was the only real Deus Ex in my opinion; I pretend the "sequel" does not exist.

[flashburn]

Well shit! My 360 just died while playing the demo. This sucks. Luckily I already had called for a box due to other issues with my 360, but I was hoping to play Bioshock first and then send back my system. So much for my most anticipated game of this year. :(

[Supermallet]

I'm not getting the hate on Deus Ex 2. I really enjoyed it. The only problem is that the individual storyline threads had really quick cutscene resolutions, but it still required you to play all the way through the awesome climax. In fact, seeing all the stuff for Bioshock and playing the demo actually made me want to go back and replay Deus Ex 2.

[taffer]

I'm not getting the hate on Deus Ex 2.

Did you ever play the original Deus Ex?

It was literally twice as long. First time through took me roughly 25 hours. Deus Ex 2 took me maybe 10 hours.

The original game was a perfect blend of FPS and RPG. #2 leaned heavily on the FPS side. It was like 90% FPS and 10% RPG.

#2 was rather linear. It told you where to go and how to get there. The original was much more open-ended. There were multiple ways to complete every single task. Many important characters could be saved or killed and it would have repercussions later on. You could play through half a dozen times and see something new every time.

#2 had about half the augmentation powers and skills of the original. Don't even get me started on the lame "universal" ammo thing from #2.

JC Denton (the player character from the original) was a complete badass. The player character from #2 was very lame and dull in comparison. He was so lame, I can't even remember his name.

The atmosphere of the original was amazing. The world really felt alive. The world in #2 felt like a generic sci-fi flick. Some of the things in the original game are kind of eerie now. The first level is set in New York, and the WTC is noticeably absent. Some of the characters in the game talk about terrorists destroying the WTC, and the game came out in 2000.

[edstein]

The graphics in this game are really amazing. The water detail is perfect. Bump mapping on just about every surface. Puts full use to your surround sound system too. Turn the lights down and the volume up for this game. Put my pre-order in for the CE tonight at Gamestop.

[thegame370]

Wow, what a demo, certainly putting in that preoder for the CE! So many things i like about this game so far:
-Totally original premise (love that it takes place in the 60's)
-a large amount of different abilities to always be able to change things up
-some interesting health items available for pick up (candy bars, whisky, etc) and the diaries are neat too
-the atmosphere is amazing. I have a big water phobia, hate the beach and pool so its safe to say, this game taking place underwater scares the bejesus out of me.

[nickdawgy]

Well shit! My 360 just died while playing the demo. This sucks. Luckily I already had called for a box due to other issues with my 360, but I was hoping to play Bioshock first and then send back my system. So much for my most anticipated game of this year. :(

Knock on wood....if my refurbed unit starts to act up or dies during the demo or worse yet the game, I will go and buy a new system, and sell the old one after it's repaired. I will not wait any longer for this game :lol:

Sucks for you though, flashburn :(

[nickdawgy]

Did you ever play the original Deus Ex?

It was literally twice as long. First time through took me roughly 25 hours. Deus Ex 2 took me maybe 10 hours.

The original game was a perfect blend of FPS and RPG. #2 leaned heavily on the FPS side. It was like 90% FPS and 10% RPG.

#2 was rather linear. It told you where to go and how to get there. The original was much more open-ended. There were multiple ways to complete every single task. Many important characters could be saved or killed and it would have repercussions later on. You could play through half a dozen times and see something new every time.

#2 had about half the augmentation powers and skills of the original. Don't even get me started on the lame "universal" ammo thing from #2.

JC Denton (the player character from the original) was a complete badass. The player character from #2 was very lame and dull in comparison. He was so lame, I can't even remember his name.

The atmosphere of the original was amazing. The world really felt alive. The world in #2 felt like a generic sci-fi flick. Some of the things in the original game are kind of eerie now. The first level is set in New York, and the WTC is noticeably absent. Some of the characters in the game talk about terrorists destroying the WTC, and the game came out in 2000.

1. Any game can be long, it depends on how you approach it. The best part about IW was that I wanted to reload the game, and try something different.

2. The RPG factor was definitely toned down for IW, I agree with you there. But IW had stuff like hacking security bots, and throwing dead bodies around, and the first didn't have that. Call it small potatoes, but hey I loved it.

3. I disagree with the linear view. I feel the original was more linear.

4. If I recall correctly, there were about the same amount of augs available for both games, IW just simplified it, or as they like to say "dumbed it down"

5. The main characters name was Alex D, and yes, I too had forgotten it until I Googled it. But come on, JC Denton or Alex D. Common sense says that the former is the easier of the two to remember.

6. They blew up the Statue of Liberty, not the WTC. There was no mention of the WTC in the game if I can remember.

By your user name, I assume you're a Thief fan. Did you feel the same way about the Thief series? I bet you hated Deadly Shadows. Thief II was my favorite of the three, with Deadly Shadows a close second.

Both of the sequels (IW, and DS) were made by Ion Storm and Warren Spector, who also worked on System Shock.

[JasonF]

Did you ever play the original Deus Ex?

:up: Deus Ex 2 is a pretty good game, but the original Deus Ex was a phenomenal game, and the sequel really suffers from the comparison.

[taffer]

6. They blew up the Statue of Liberty, not the WTC. There was no mention of the WTC in the game if I can remember.

By your user name, I assume you're a Thief fan. Did you feel the same way about the Thief series? I bet you hated Deadly Shadows. Thief II was my favorite of the three, with Deadly Shadows a close second.

Both of the sequels (IW, and DS) were made by Ion Storm and Warren Spector, who also worked on System Shock.

The first level does take place on the remains of the Statue of Liberty, but if you look to the background, the WTC is clearly not visible. If you eavesdrop on a conversation somewhere in that level (I don't remember the exact one), there is a dialogue about the WTC being destroyed by terrorists a few years prior.

Yes, I am a huge Thief fan. It is one of my favorite series. I didn't hate Deadly Shadows; I actually did like it even though it was a huge step down from the previous two games. Deadly Shadows did have the best story of the trilogy IMO and some of the levels were amazingly atmospheric. The Cradle creeps me out just thinking about it.

Yeah, I know Warren Spector worked on IW and DS and SS. He also worked on the original Deus Ex and even had a cameo appearance in the game. IW is the only crap game of the bunch, but hey, nobody is perfect. :)

[CKMorpheus]

Amazing demo!

The entire world is so well-realized... The use of mise en scene is exquisite. All the little details... you wonder what happened that New Years Eve... What was the inciting incident? You heard something violent break out on that audio-clip... but were there Splicers wandering around prior to that party?

Argh! So many questions!

I ran to Best Buy today and canceled my pre-order. I then went to GameStop, sold an old copy of The Darkness (great game, but after you beat it, there's not much else to do), and a few DVDs, and paid the difference for the CE.

Can't wait!!!!

[K&AJones]

Just played the "Demo of the Year" and .....just a absolute gorgeous piece of work. Hands down one of if not the best looking game I've seen. Now "THIS" is what 360 games are suppose to look like. After playing it I made sure I had my pre-ordered box safe and sound. It's a must to DL and play even if you're not much on FPS/RPG's. This might convert you over.

What I liked was after the demo showing all the different stuff you can do. It looks like the type of game you could play three times and still enjoy the hell out of it. I did like the one scene with the two "Big Daddy's" going at it after one was turned friendly. WOW what a demo and next week cannot get here fast enough. This game deserves a "10" for design alone.


Kenny J - Buzz Starhopper

[JasonF]

I just showed the opening part of the demo (everything up to the bathysphere getting to Rapture) to my wife and even she was amazed. She's a little mad because she wants to know the whole story of Rapture but she's not a gamer.

I also realized that
Andrew Ryan = Ayn Rand. Or maybe "We R Ayn Rand," just to make the anagram complete. Somebody hop on over to Politics Talk and tell all the libertarians! ;)

[Supermallet]

This demo is everything I expected and more. I get goosebumps just thinking about it. I cannot wait for this game.

As for Deus Ex, I did not play the first. I see it was available on the Mac, I'll see if I can find it somewhere.

[JasonF]

This demo is everything I expected and more. I get goosebumps just thinking about it. I cannot wait for this game.

As for Deus Ex, I did not play the first. I see it was available on the Mac, I'll see if I can find it somewhere.

I don't know if you can play Gametap games on the Mac, but Deus Ex is on Gametap.

Alas, neither of the System Shock games are on Gametap.

[lordwow]

The slow opening to Rapture in the demo is probably the most awe-struck I've ever been at a demo. For a "slow pace" they sure nailed it.

[CKMorpheus]

To enable hard go to your gamer profile in the dashboard and then change your default game settings. Go to general, then change your difficulty to hard.

Start up the Bioshock Demo.

Hard should be highlighted when you have the option to select your difficulty. Make sure not to move the cursor or you will not be able to select hard again unless you hit B and then return.

Hit A.

[Liver&Onions]

Dammit, I don't want to spoil my first play of Bioshock with the demo - but all you guys are making me consider doing just that.

Arrrg.

Side note. Finally got to try the eternal sonata demo. YES! Looks awesome. I can't wait for this baby now. Stranglehold was interesting too. That might be worth a buy too. Still need to try Blue Dragon.

[Decker]

Wow. I had preordered this months ago on the basis or some glowing preview, but I've been burned by hype before. This sucker is amazing. I was stunned right from the get-go with the lighting effects on the water drops on your mask (or glasses). The settings in the game are so unique (I don't know what to call that design; in film it's art direction and set design). Really, I've never seen that sort of creativity in a game before; it made me think of Blade Runner or Tim Burton's Batman for a comparison of such a well created fictional setting. Gameplay feels butter-smooth and the plasmid stuff, while hardly new or unique, (and when will Psi-Ops ever get the credit it deserves for inventing or perfecting that style of gameplay) is amazingly cool and fun here. Can't wait to get my copy. And am a little jealous of all those picking up the CE (but a deal is a deal so I'll suck it up for now).

[Supermallet]

Actually, I think Batman Returns would be a better comparison for the design. Either way, it looks amazing.

[KurrptSenate]

Seemed like an alright game. I'm still not going to purchase this one for some time, but I did like hacking the robot

[dvd182]

So let's say I suck at FPS, A LOT, and have been avoiding them since before the days of the first Halo. Will I eventually get marginally good enough to finish some of these?

Like, I died multiple times after they introduced plasmids in the demo. Bioshock looks sweet as hell, but I'm just terrible at FPS. Does it get any easier after some practice?

[KurrptSenate]

Ill say my second time through on Medium was much easier.

[Flay]

Dammit, I don't want to spoil my first play of Bioshock with the demo - but all you guys are making me consider doing just that.

Besides the opening sequence and intro to the first two plasmid powers, there really isn't much to spoil. The pieces of the story you pick up along the way with the tape recorders are slight at best. It's really just a tease at best.

Has anyone figured out what the money is for?

[KurrptSenate]

nothing in the demo, anyway

[Lastblade]

So let's say I suck at FPS, A LOT, and have been avoiding them since before the days of the first Halo. Will I eventually get marginally good enough to finish some of these?

Like, I died multiple times after they introduced plasmids in the demo. Bioshock looks sweet as hell, but I'm just terrible at FPS. Does it get any easier after some practice?

I died alot too toward the end of the demo. But you could definitely improve. Hacking the machines to help you, run to a safer corner to fight, and using the plasmids correctly will all help IMO.

[KurrptSenate]

you just have to shoot out that camera that sets off the alarm. makes it a hell of a lot easier

hacking the machine is fun, but not really required. They give you plenty of machine gun ammo

[Edison]

Has anyone figured out what the money is for?

You can use money to 'buy out' the hacking mini-games, there was an option on the security bot (<B>Y</B> button I believe). I think that was the only place I found in the demo (I was hoping to buy a newspaper out of the vending machine, but it wouldn't let me). According to the <A HREF="http://forums.2kgames.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=16" target="_new">2K forums</A> further in the full game there will be working vending machines (cigarettes, and power bars I'd guess).

[edstein]

I'm going to try the demo again on hard. I didn't hack the machine I just killed it.

[KurrptSenate]

the machine is turned off. you can't kill it

[House]

So let's say I suck at FPS, A LOT, and have been avoiding them since before the days of the first Halo. Will I eventually get marginally good enough to finish some of these?

Like, I died multiple times after they introduced plasmids in the demo. Bioshock looks sweet as hell, but I'm just terrible at FPS. Does it get any easier after some practice?


How can anyone suck at FPS??

[dgc]

According to the <A HREF="http://forums.2kgames.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=16" target="_new">2K forums</A> further in the full game there will be working vending machines (cigarettes, and power bars I'd guess).

From what I understand you will also be able to purchase gene tonics and parts to hack/modify your weapons.

[KurrptSenate]

How can anyone suck at FPS??


you suck at the control mechanism. it's that simple

[JasonF]

How can anyone suck at FPS??

Using you left thumb to control which direction you move while using your right thumb to control where you're looking and pointing your weapon isn't necessarily the easiest thing in the world.

[DRG]

Wasn't sure about this one because I'm not a big FPS fan (although I enjoyed CoD2 and Rainbow 6 Vegas, and FPS-ish games like Gears of War and Condemned). But this demo was amazing... I'm already afraid of the Big Daddies even though I didn't get to face one in the demo. The world is just beautiful and creepy at the same time.

I did get confused by the robot hack, though. I didn't understand the controls and ended up overloading the circuit and blowing up the robot by accident.

[KurrptSenate]

haha


i just flipped over as many tiles as possible, then used them to build the pipe to the end. it's really easy once you understand the mechanics of the game

[RichC2]

Have you ever tried playing one on the Dual Shock? Thats how you can suck at FPS.

[timewaster]

I've played over 20 360 games and i'm not easily impressed.
downloaded and played the demo last night and wow!
This game will win alot of awards and most likely game of the year.
I've never played System Shock, but now I'm a huge fan of this developer.

I don't recommend anyone to download the demo, otherwise you will be so pissed off that you will need to wait another week for the game to come out :)

[taffer]

Have you ever tried playing one on the Dual Shock? Thats how you can suck at FPS.

If you suck with the Dual Shock, then don't play Playstation FPS games. If you suck with analog sticks in general, then don't play console FPS games. If you suck with mouse & keyboard too, well then I guess you just suck. :p

From what I understand you will also be able to purchase gene tonics and parts to hack/modify your weapons.

A while back, one of the developers said you would be able to buy a ton of customizations for your character. He said the character customization was so detailed you could even increase the size of your manhood.

[DRG]

haha


i just flipped over as many tiles as possible, then used them to build the pipe to the end. it's really easy once you understand the mechanics of the game

I think the problem was I was trying to flip the tile and ended up hitting the 'swap' button instead. Two swaps and boom went the dynamite. Which button do I use to flip the tiles?

[Edison]

Which button do I use to flip the tiles?

I believe <B>A</B> once flips the tile, <B>A</B> again on the same tile swaps it out.

Am I the only one that seen the mini-game and thought <A HREF="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pipe_Dream_(video_game)" target="_new">Pipe Dream</A>! Maybe I'm the only one that had an AMIGA back in 89?

[taffer]

Am I the only one that seen the mini-game and thought <A HREF="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pipe_Dream_(video_game)" target="_new">Pipe Dream</A>! Maybe I'm the only one that had an AMIGA back in 89?

I recognized it as a puzzle game that has been done numerous times before. :shrug:

[dvd182]

Using you left thumb to control which direction you move while using your right thumb to control where you're looking and pointing your weapon isn't necessarily the easiest thing in the world.

Yeah, I'm really thinking it's the controls. I remember not liking the original Halo for this, so I just skipped out on it completely. I liked Battlefield 1942 and the Unreals for the PC a few years ago, but the console ones are just different to me somehow. Oh well, I better just cowboy up and get used to it.

[KurrptSenate]

honestly, I've done it twice and I didn't know you could spin the titles. I just used the swap method over and over hahaha

[nickdawgy]

honestly, I've done it twice and I didn't know you could spin the titles. I just used the swap method over and over hahaha

Same here :lol:

I played through the demo 3 times now.

[KurrptSenate]

i might play through it a 3rd time if I can activate the "HARD" mode that was explained earlier today

[CKMorpheus]

honestly, I've done it twice and I didn't know you could spin the titles. I just used the swap method over and over hahaha

I've played through it 9 times and didn't know that! What button does that?

[maingon]

just ordered the CE from Gamestop, Hopefully my 360 will be back(got the 3 red lights a while back)

[Mordred]

I spent $85 on the CE pre-order with overnight shipping. My birthday is next week, and I am taking a day off work and saying "happy friggin' birthday" to myself

:)My birthday is the 21st and I think I'll get myself a present :)

I'll be getting the PC version and let you all know what that's like.

[Mordred]

Am I the only one that seen the mini-game and thought <A HREF="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pipe_Dream_(video_game)" target="_new">Pipe Dream</A>! Maybe I'm the only one that had an AMIGA back in 89?Amiga 500 baby!

[KurrptSenate]

I've played through it 9 times and didn't know that! What button does that?


just A


you have to press A on a title to have it unveal the tile, then swap it with the one you are holding.

I basically uncovered about 20 titles ASAP and just build the pipe from that "cache". If I need a specific peice to complete the pipe, I'll either start unveiling more titles, or I'll just edit my initial plan to work with the tiles I have at my disposal.

Much easier than you might think


now, if you were talking about spinning the titles, again, I didn't know about that

[CKMorpheus]

just A


you have to press A on a title to have it unveal the tile, then swap it with the one you are holding.

I basically uncovered about 20 titles ASAP and just build the pipe from that "cache". If I need a specific peice to complete the pipe, I'll either start unveiling more titles, or I'll just edit my initial plan to work with the tiles I have at my disposal.

Much easier than you might think


now, if you were talking about spinning the titles, again, I didn't know about that

Yeah, I knew that already. I meant the spinning. Oh well... it works just fine either way.

[Ghym]

My birthday is the 21st and I think I'll get myself a present :)

I'll be getting the PC version and let you all know what that's like.


I plan on getting the PC version too. Just built a new PC a couple months ago. This game should look great.

[House]

Using you left thumb to control which direction you move while using your right thumb to control where you're looking and pointing your weapon isn't necessarily the easiest thing in the world.


It's not? Maybe it just came easy to me after playing all those hours of goldeneye and Unreal championship. Now that was hard trying to look around with buttons intead of a joystick.

I also used to play FPS on pc with keyboard and mouse. I never liked that set up..

[House]

Have you ever tried playing one on the Dual Shock? Thats how you can suck at FPS.

Ok, maybe that is what he is talking about? He sucks at FPS on the playstation? I don't think I would be very good either.

[CKMorpheus]

Here's a news snippet from VE3D.com


BioShock PC Demo to Debut at Fileplanet (http://ve3d.ign.com/articles/news/33859/BioShock-PC-Demo-to-Debut-at-FilePlanet)

Dunnn, dunnn, dunnnnnnnn! In case your curious how FilePlanet's bandwidth matches up againt Xbox Live, you might be interested in knowing that the Bioshock PC demo (http://www.fileplanet.com/promotions/bioshock/) is going to be debuting there shortly.

"Descend into the Depths... After your plane crashes into icy waters, you discover a rusted bathysphere and descend into Rapture, a city hidden beneath the sea.

Be the first to download and play this incredible demo! FilePlanet subscribers can even pre-load the demo in advance of the release."

[edstein]

I may try that PC demo and compare frame rates to the 360 version. I upgraded my video card recently but I still think my 360 will run it smoother.

[Flay]

Something has been bugging me about the demo all day, storywise. Why in the hell is Jack (the main character) so unhesitant to inject himself with the plasmid?

If I just landed in that place and witnessed the freaky splicer incident at the pod, there is no way I'm juicing up myself with the same stuff that's probably running through their veins. Did Atlas say anything that I missed?

[Mr. Music]

This demo did nothing but freak me out..... good job! :thumbsup:

[RichC2]

Something has been bugging me about the demo all day, storywise. Why in the hell is Jack (the main character) so unhesitant to inject himself with the plasmid?

If I just landed in that place and witnessed the freaky splicer incident at the pod, there is no way I'm juicing up myself with the same stuff that's probably running through their veins. Did Atlas say anything that I missed?

I was wondering that too, though it didn't detract too much.

[JasonF]

Something has been bugging me about the demo all day, storywise. Why in the hell is Jack (the main character) so unhesitant to inject himself with the plasmid?

If I just landed in that place and witnessed the freaky splicer incident at the pod, there is no way I'm juicing up myself with the same stuff that's probably running through their veins. Did Atlas say anything that I missed?

Yeah, it would have been better if Atlas had told you to inject yourself, that it was the only way through the door, etc. Oh well.

The other thing I don't like about the demo -- and I bet this won't be fixed in the real game -- is that the dialog subtitles don't quite sync up with the spoken dialog.

[Flay]

For any DVDTalkers on the East Coast, Bioshock is already being sold at Toys R Us stores. Reports from New York City and New Jersey mostly.

Here is a fellow at TeamXbox that just picked it up in Danbury, Connecticut: http://live.xbox.com/member/KGBosh Here's another: http://live.xbox.com/member/Deamos+Seraphim

My TRU in South Carolina was Bioshockless. :(

UPDATE: More copies sold in:

Boca Raton, Florida (SOLD OUT)
Tampa, Florida
Greenstown, Illinois
North Bergen, New Jersey
Boardman, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio
Houston, Texas

[Michael Corvin]

http://cache.kotaku.com/assets/resources/2007/04/bioshock_le.jpg

I've only scanned the thread but saw this pic posted twice. That is not the SE coming out. That was a fan made mock-up prior to what was actually announced.

Visit gamestop.com for the actual SE contents and packaging.

[Deftones]

For any DVDTalkers on the East Coast, Bioshock is already being sold at Toys R Us stores. Reports from New York City and New Jersey mostly.

Here is a fellow at TeamXbox that just picked it up in Danbury, Connecticut: http://live.xbox.com/member/KGBosh Here's another: http://live.xbox.com/member/Deamos+Seraphim

My TRU in South Carolina was Bioshockless. :(

UPDATE: More copies sold in:

Boca Raton, Florida
Greenstown, Illinois
North Bergen, New Jersey
Columbus, Ohio
Dayton, Ohio

If that is the case, this would be a great time to try to use that 20% off coupon coupled with the Madden deal.

[Flay]

If that is the case, this would be a great time to try to use that 20% off coupon coupled with the Madden deal.

Yep, some already have. It's about $78 plus tax out the door. Not too shabby for 2 brand new 360 titles.

[Edison]

I've only scanned the thread but saw this pic posted twice. That is not the SE coming out. That was a fan made mock-up prior to what was actually announced.

Visit gamestop.com for the actual SE contents and packaging.

^ LOL that's where I seen the picture first. :) Yeah I read that over at the 2K forums later that it was a mock up.

Something has been bugging me about the demo all day, storywise. Why in the hell is Jack (the main character) so unhesitant to inject himself with the plasmid?

I was yelling at the TV, don't do that! Of course it was three bottles of alcohol straight before I realized that I should wait and read the help dialog.

[Decker]

I've only scanned the thread but saw this pic posted twice. That is not the SE coming out. That was a fan made mock-up prior to what was actually announced.

Visit gamestop.com for the actual SE contents and packaging.
I guess it would be this then:
http://www.gamestop.com/common/images/lbox/200317b.jpg

But that other picture IS on the preorder page as well, FYI.

[Edison]

I was hoping the local Toys-R-Us had it out, but either they didn't or the clerk was clued in, he said it doesn't come out until next Tuesday the 21st.

[lordwow]

I guess it would be this then:
http://www.gamestop.com/common/images/lbox/200317b.jpg

But that other picture IS on the preorder page as well, FYI.

So is the US CE not coming out in the cool cubed-shape box, or is that stuff all going to be in that box?

[aktick]

Gonna stop by TRU tomorrow again and see if they have it, get another copy of Madden if they have Bioshock. How much you think I can eBay Madden for?

[lordwow]

Gonna stop by TRU tomorrow again and see if they have it, get another copy of Madden if they have Bioshock. How much you think I can eBay Madden for?
http://cgi.ebay.com/Madden-NFL-08-Xbox-360-BRAND-NEW-SEALED_W0QQitemZ280143139031QQihZ018QQcategoryZ62053QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[aktick]

Oh man, just played the demo, screw this game! I hate scary ass games! :sad:

[TheDude]

Sigh, went out to a bar tonight and wouldn't you know it, there's a Gamestop across the way. After playing the demo, there's no way that I could avoid preordering the CE. So weak, so weak...

[Michael Corvin]

So is the US CE not coming out in the cool cubed-shape box, or is that stuff all going to be in that box?

I would assume it is all in the cube.

[K&AJones]

Could you imagine a game like this with 3D glasses......yikes.


Kenny J - Buzz Bio-Starhopper

[Flay]

So here are the latest rumors / facts on the Bioshock early release clusterfuck:

Fact: Many Toys R Us stores already started selling Bioshock yesterday. Many pictures with receipts have been posted on GAF, TeamXbox, CaG, 2K forums, etc.

Rumor: A Toys R Us employee is reporting that the game shipped without street date info on the packaging. That may be the external shipping boxes rather than the game cases. Or it could be both. He believes the game will be available at every TRU store today.

Fact: Last night, the commercial for Bioshock changed. The final shot of the "Beyond the Sea" commercial changed from "8.21.07" to "Available Now". I saw it with my own eyes and it's already up on Youtube.

Big Fat Rumor: Ken Levine, 2K designer, supposedly informed NeoGaF sources that the game released early and is shipping to stores this week rather than next.

So, my fellow DVDTalkers, that's the internet buzz in a nutshell. Hit your Toys R Us stores early, because if it's a screwup, internal memos will be sent ASAP.

If it's not, then Welcome to Rapture. :banana:

[Supermallet]

This should be of interest to anyone who is enamored with the art style of the game (as I am)...

http://www.2kgames.com/cultofrapture/artbook.html

Edit: There's a thread on the Cult of Rapture forums about this early release debacle, and most of it is a group of PC gamers bitching about how they don't even have a demo yet, but it's going incredibly fast. Every time I go to read the next page, there's a new page added. I can't read fast enough! :lol: There's also a Gamestop manager in there trying to tell people that they won't be able to get the game early from a Gamestop because it's street dated, and posters are talking about how they'll bribe employees and so on, it's hilarious.

[achau9598]

played the demo last night ... damn that game is dark! can't wait for the full game to arrive :)

[Obey The D]

So, my fellow DVDTalkers, that's the internet buzz in a nutshell. Hit your Toys R Us stores early, because if it's a screwup, internal memos will be sent ASAP.
If it's not, then Welcome to Rapture. :banana:

Well I guess I know what I'll be doing during my coffee break this morning. There's a Toys R Us about 5 minutes down the highway from where I work.

[House]

So last night about 8:00 I decided to get on gamefaqs and go into the bioshock messageboard. When I get in I notice a thread stating that someone bought the game from Toys R us. So I take a look and nobody belives the guy. Then someone else says he bought the game also.

So I figure what the hell. I gave my Toys R Us a call and they had the game!! I was so excited, I was there in 15 minutes. When he was ringing it up the cash register made some weird beeps, and he would look at if funny. Then finally got it to go through. I was afraid the system was going to lock the game out.

So anyways I have the game, and it is sweet.

[Supermallet]

I would go buy it at TRU, but a) I want the CE, and b) I won't have time to dedicate to it as I would want. On the other hand, it's freakin' Bioshock. Goddamn it.

[PixyJunket]

I'm so tempted to get it now after playing the demo.. but Metroid Prime 3 (and Blue Dragon [and Gundam Dynasty Warriors]) come out in two weeks and I'm still enjoying nightly Wartech matches. Mother fuck having to have a job!

[aktick]

This is only a single player game? No online or local MP?

[Supermallet]

Considering the amount of replayability this game has, I would say the lack of multiplayer won't be as big of an issue as it might be with other games.

[RichC2]

I will admit though, Plasmids would be fun in multi. But agreed, much like System Shock 2 and Deus Ex, the SP game is more than enough for me.

[glassdragon]

you never know, this hasn't been the first game to get the single player game working before worrying about multiplayer. Remember Halflife 2? Multiplayer came out like 5 months after the game hit. That's always a possibility for this game, and because of xbox live and the harddrive they could get it too.

[edstein]

I really want the CE. But, with the 20% off coupon and Madden deal I could get both games for $80. Damn it!

[Supermallet]

At this point, if my local TRU has Bioshock, I'm doing the Madden deal and then pawning Madden.

[Michael Corvin]

Damn you TRU! I have mine pre-ordered at Gamestop. I really want the LE... but I'm actually on vacation this week! Maybe I'll get lucky and GS will call today, but I'm not holding my breath.

[PixyJunket]

At this point, if my local TRU has Bioshock, I'm doing the Madden deal and then pawning Madden.That sounds like a solid plan.

[Supermallet]

A highlight from the Rapture Forum thread on the early release:

There's a poster on there who, aside from having terrible spelling and grammar problems, posted every two minutes about how he was going to go to his local Gamestop today and bribe one of the employees to sell him his pre-ordered copy now. He's just generally been rude and a dick the whole time. Just a few minutes ago he posted this:


omg. I just called gamestop to check my reserve, and it was erased. I put 20 bucks down on a reserve and its just gone. So fuck it, Im goin to toys r us and gettin 1. they have em there.

The karma evident in that post is just astounding. :lol:

That sounds like a solid plan.

Yeah, I'll still get the LE from Gamestop when it comes out, but if I can get the game for $30, and Madden for under $50 to boot, then if I sell Madden to someone for $50 and Bioshock for $40 or more, then I've just made a profit off of it, and got to play the game early to boot.

[PixyJunket]

The LE doesn't seem to have anything too interesting to me, other than the soundtrack.

[Supermallet]

If TRU has it today, then I guess I can decide whether or not it's worth it come Tuesday.

[Flay]

No dice again at my TRU. I did see some great calling information posted at TeamXbox though:

DO NOT ASK FOR BIOSHOCK

Ask for this Give Reps the Item #815893 Reps are dumb and might just say no without checking give the item # then ask how many in stock or in the inventory in the back.

Item #: 815893

SKU: 8CEA5020

UPC/EAN/ISBN: 710425299636

Manufacturer #: 29963

[RichC2]

None up here in Tally.

[DRG]

So shouldn't they just ship early or allow all stores to break the street date altogether now? If there's already such a major leak...

[KurrptSenate]

/\/\

that never happens

[Vryce]

Called 3 Toys R Us near me, but asked for Bioshock. None had it in. One said they had boxes of product to open, but she couldn't say if Bioshock was in there or not. Said to call back later today after they open the boxes and start putting stuff on the shelves.

[Obey The D]

No luck finding it at the Toys R Us in Totowa, NJ.

[Obey The D]

/\/\

that never happens

I remember several years back that all the big stores in Northern NJ (Best Buy, Circuit City, etc) sold the gameboy advance sp several days early due to the fact that another major retailer broke street date.

[slop101]

The demo held me over pretty well, so I can wait 'till next week for the full game.

But it's cool that TrU has it early for people.

I really think this game's gonna be a goddammed masterpiece, but I'm also kinda intimidated by it.

[Flay]

Call your local EB / Gamestops today after they unpack their shipments if you preordered. Some stores are selling their stock already due to the TRU leak, Regular & CE.

[Michael Corvin]

Madden 08
+ 20% Off
+ Bioshock 50% off a week before release
=

one happy customer or $82.66 after tax if you want to get technical.

This was the Outer Loop TRU for those few Louisvillian's on here. :)

I called my GS after I picked up this deal. No dice. He said they aren't allowed until the 21st. He was shocked when I told him our local TRU was selling it. I'll try again later. :)

[Flay]

Congrats Corvin! I'm jealous! Give us some spoiler-free details when you get the chance.

Here are a few more cities for the TRU list:

Fort Wayne, Indiana
Rockville, Maryland (Probably SOLD OUT)
Phoenix, Arizona (76th Ave and Thomas)
Parma, Ohio (Going fast)
Las Vegas, Nevada (Maryland parkway / Tropicana)
Charleston, West Virginia
Erie, PA

[Daryl]

This was the Outer Loop TRU for those few Louisvillian's on here.

:( I settled for the online deal simply because gas to drive to Louisville was a wash vs. the 20% off + no shipping, and my 360 is at Microsoft anyway. Otherwise I would've have been at Outer Loop by 6pm tonight! ;)

[Liver&Onions]

Crap - might have to do go this at lunchtime. I gave in and played the demo last night. 70 different plasmids!?! Awesome.

[slop101]

70 different plasmids!?! Awesome.Awesome, yes, but that's the kind of thing that intimidates me. I mean, how am I gonna keep all those straight and know what to use in what situation, not to mention how do I go through a selection process of 70 different powers?

[RichC2]

Thats the problem with demos, they show you parts of the game before things really get going. I'm sure it'll be fairly easy to organize and figure out later on, as despite how confusing System Shock 1/2 looked on the surface, they always managed to flow damn well.

But if it lets me light a guy on fire, watch as they run for water, and then electrocute them after they dive in... I'm a-ok.

[Liver&Onions]

Awesome, yes, but that's the kind of thing that intimidates me. I mean, how am I gonna keep all those straight and know what to use in what situation, not to mention how do I go through a selection process of 70 different powers?

This is the kind of thing which makes me happy :) I'm guessing that we can only have a few plasmids active at any given time, and not possess the power to wield them all. This means that by the end of the game, there will be shit I've done with my powers that you couldn't even fathom(pun intended). This is what it's all aboot!

[Vryce]

Madden 08
+ 20% Off
+ Bioshock 50% off a week before release
=

one happy customer or $82.66 after tax if you want to get technical.

This was the Outer Loop TRU for those few Louisvillian's on here. :)

I called my GS after I picked up this deal. No dice. He said they aren't allowed until the 21st. He was shocked when I told him our local TRU was selling it. I'll try again later. :)

That is pretty much what mine came to as well. I got the last copy, I think at the one store I went to.

Now to see if I can sell off the Madden game as I have no interest in it. Off to eBay I go.