Bioshock: The Collection – Review

Bringing together 3 of the most critically acclaimed games of all time, Bioshock: the collection takes players back to the depths of Rapture and the Heights of Columbia in stunning 1080p and 60fps to bring these amazing games into the modern era. Whether a returning fan or a new one, there is something for all in this collection.

Taking place in the lost dystopian city of Rapture, Bioshock transports players to the twisted husk that was once a glorious utopia. Traveling through the various parts of the city, the player must unravel the secrets of what has happened with the help of a few ‘kind’ folks. With previous knowledge of the city, Bioshock 2 takes players back to Rapture to uncover more secrets about a new adversary and delve deeper into the history of Rapture. Bioshock Infinite takes players from the ocean and into the sky where you must fight to stop a deadly tyrant from destroying the flying city of Columbia.

Gameplay in each of the games is largely unchanged which is its blessing and curse. For fans who have played the games before, they will feel right at home whilst new players may struggle with the now dated features such as a lack of aiming down a sight and the mix of weapons in each hand. This is not to say however that the games suffer because of this as new players will quickly get used to the way the game plays and feels leading to a great experience at the end. Just remember to stick with it.

Graphics is the whole reason for this re-release and Irrational Games wants to show its players exactly what a HD Remaster looks like. Bioshock has had the most dramatic change with new lighting, HD textures and 60fps support. It’s a refreshing look at one of my favourite games of all time and I envy anyone seeing it for the first time. The introduction to Bioshock still gives me goosebumps and seeing it with updated visuals really brings those feelings back.

Bioshock 2 has also had a facelift but not as much as the original. New lighting and textures bring the game to the modern standard and although it is my least favourite in the series, I enjoyed going for another run again. Bioshock 2 also comes with Minerva’s Den. A fantastic DLC that adds new story and areas to the game making this package even better.

Bioshock Infinite is the least updated but for good reason. Now at 1080p and 60fps, Infinite is smoother and has a few updated textures here and there but Infinite is still a great looking game even now so it is clear to see why Irrational have chosen to go with a subtle update for this one. As my favourite of the 3, Infinite has great characters, locations and a gripping story that has not been matched since. Also included is the Burial at Sea DLC which takes players back to Rapture and links the original game to Infinite in one of the most mind-blowing twists in gaming history. The experience is worth it just for this.

Bioshock: The Collection was reviewed on the Xbox One but also is available on PS4 and PC for £33.99 which is a bargain for 3 of the most gripping journeys that I have ever had the pleasure of playing.

Special thanks to 2K for suppling us with the code!