Bioshock Creator Was Shocked by Irrational Games Closure

Ken Levine reflects on the unexpected closure of Irrational Games, despite the success of BioShock Infinite, describing the decision as "complicated." He reveals the studio's shutdown surprised most employees, stating, "I thought they were going to continue. But it wasn’t my company." This followed Levine's departure, driven by personal challenges during BioShock Infinite's development. He admits, "I don’t think I was in any state to be a good leader."

Irrational Games, known for System Shock 2 and the BioShock franchise, faced unforeseen pressures. Levine aimed for a compassionate closure, prioritizing employee support through transition packages. He even suggests a BioShock remake could have been a suitable project for the studio's continuation, stating, “That would have been a good title for Irrational to get their head around.”

With BioShock 4 on the horizon, developed by Cloud Chamber Studios, fans anticipate lessons learned from BioShock Infinite's reception. Speculation points towards an open-world setting, though maintaining the series' first-person perspective. While announced five years ago, an official release date remains elusive.