Which BioShock Game Should You Start With?

As a new player to the BioShock series, you might be considering which game to dive into first. While there are several compelling options, starting with the original BioShock 2007 is often recommended due to several compelling reasons. This article explores the merits of beginning your BioShock journey with the first game, and provide insight into the subsequent titles as well.

Introduction to the Story

Starting with the original BioShock introduces you to the underwater city of Rapture, its unique atmosphere, and the central themes of choice, morality, and the consequences of utopian ideals. The game sets the stage for a gripping narrative that continues to captivate players years after its release.

Gameplay Mechanics

BioShock establishes the core gameplay mechanics that would be expanded upon in later titles. You will get a feel for combat, exploration, and the use of plasmids, which are unique energy-based weapons and abilities that allow players to manipulate their environment in various ways.

Narrative Impact

The original BioShock is highly regarded for its twists and philosophical depth, making it a memorable entry point into the series. The game offers a rich and complex narrative that spans from the construction of Rapture to its eventual downfall, providing a deeply engaging player experience.

Afterward

Once you have immersed yourself in the original game, you can move on to BioShock Infinite 2013, which, while set in a different location (the floating city of Columbia), offers a standalone narrative that is equally compelling. BioShock 2 2010 can also be considered, though it is often considered the weakest in the series but still has its merits. Completing the trilogy offers a more comprehensive understanding of the Rapture and its inhabitants.

Personal Recommendations

Many players recommend starting with the first game for the best introduction to the series. However, it's important to note that while BioShock 2010 can be skipped, it is not entirely inconsequential. If you are interested in the overall story and want a more complete understanding, it would be beneficial to play the second game, as it continues where the first one leaves off.

My Personal Favorite

Personally, I consider BioShock 2007 to be the standout. Despite its critical acclaim, this game is still highly underrated in my opinion. The philosophy and dialect in the story are absolutely superb. If you have ever read Ayn Rand's works, you will see her influence in the making of this game. The narrative reflects the ideas of Andrew Ryan, a man whose name bears a striking resemblance to Ayn Rand, and who dreams of a city where society could live up to its fullest potential.

The game does an excellent job telling the story of Rapture's collapse through audio diaries and NPC dialogues, providing a detailed and immersive experience. The graphics are also breathtakingly beautiful, and as a touchstone, I must admit that I was initially skeptical about the game's quality before its release. However, upon playing it, I was pleasantly surprised by its depth and overall quality.

Recent Reflections

Recently, I have revisited both BioShock 2007 and BioShock 2010. One of the main advantages of the second game is the upgraded gameplay mechanics, particularly the upgrades and hacking systems which are less tedious. However, the first game remains the best, offering a masterfully crafted narrative and rich gameplay that is still highly underrated in my opinion.

Key Takeaways

BioShock 2007 is highly recommended for new players due to its well-crafted story and impactful gameplay. BioShock Infinite 2013 offers a standalone narrative and is equally compelling. BioShock 2 2010 can be skipped, but it offers a more complete understanding of the series. The first game's narrative reflects the ideas of Ayn Rand, providing a unique and engaging experience.

Regardless of which game you choose to start with, you are in for a memorable journey through the world of Rapture. The BioShock series offers a rich blend of narrative, gameplay, and theoretical depth that continues to captivate players.