Bioshock 2: Bring Back Jack
Bioshock 2 is released in Europe today, which is odd given that it’s a Tuesday (we always get new releases on the Friday). I’m not that excited about it. Why? A couple of reasons, which I’m surprised to admit, especially as the first Bioshock was outstanding; one of the few games I will heartily recommend to anyone and everyone, simply because, from start to finish, it is consistently successful in creating a suspenseful environment with an unrivaled atmosphere. So yes, the original Bioshock was stellar, one of the 360’s finest exclusives. The sequel, however, has not only come at a wrong time for me, but it’s also the fact I can’t seem to muster up the enthusiasm to play as a Big Daddy.
What I particularly loved about Bioshock, was the entire story surrounding Jack, the character you took control of. He happened upon Rapture because of an airplane accident, and from the point you entered the lighthouse onwards, everything was unsettling and begging to be explored. Seriously, just thinking back to the first few moments of taking control of Jack and wading through the water towards the lighthouse is making me giddy. Big Daddies, as you know, are an integral part of Rapture. They were a familiar encounter in the original, and insanely fun to go up against. They were pretty resilient, but nothing a dozen electric bucks couldn’t take down.
I don’t have anything derogatory to say about Alan Wake. My advice to you? Spend a night in Bright Falls and soak up the eerie atmosphere. Alan Wake excels at thrilling you psychologically. Which is why it’s called a psychological thriller, I guess…
