Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
- Developers: Irrational Games
- Publishers: 2K Games
BioShock Infinite: Burial at Sea – Episode 1: A Return to Rapture’s Dark Depths
Introduction
BioShock Infinite: Burial at Sea – Episode 1 is the first part of a two-part downloadable content (DLC) expansion for BioShock Infinite, released in 2013. It marks a return to the underwater city of Rapture, the iconic setting of the original BioShock game. This time, players take on the role of Booker DeWitt, the protagonist of BioShock Infinite, as he travels to Rapture on a new mission.
Story
Burial at Sea – Episode 1 takes place shortly before the events of the original BioShock. Booker DeWitt has been hired by the enigmatic figure known as the Lutece Twins to find a missing girl named Sally. Booker’s search leads him to Rapture, where he quickly discovers that the city is on the brink of collapse.
As Booker explores Rapture, he encounters a cast of new and familiar characters, including Elizabeth, the young woman he rescued in BioShock Infinite. Together, they must navigate the treacherous streets of Rapture and uncover the secrets behind Sally’s disappearance.
Gameplay
Burial at Sea – Episode 1 retains the core gameplay mechanics of BioShock Infinite, including the use of weapons, Vigors (special abilities), and Tears (rifts in the fabric of reality). However, the DLC also introduces some new gameplay elements, such as:
- Stealth gameplay: Booker can now sneak around enemies and take them down silently, using a variety of stealth takedowns.
- New weapons and Vigors: Burial at Sea – Episode 1 features a new arsenal of weapons and Vigors, including the powerful Hand Cannon and the Possession Vigor.
- Return to Rapture: Players will explore familiar locations from the original BioShock, such as the Welcome Center and the Kashmir Restaurant, as well as new areas such as the Siren Alley and the Fontaine Futuristics department store.
Setting
Rapture is a city built underwater by the brilliant but megalomaniacal scientist Andrew Ryan. It was intended to be a utopia, free from the constraints of the surface world. However, Rapture quickly descended into chaos and violence, and by the time of Burial at Sea – Episode 1, it is a crumbling ruin.
The DLC captures the unique atmosphere of Rapture, with its Art Deco architecture, glowing neon signs, and haunting underwater environments. Players will encounter a variety of enemies, including Splicers, Big Daddies, and the new Handymen.
Characters
In addition to Booker and Elizabeth, Burial at Sea – Episode 1 introduces a cast of new and interesting characters, including:
- Sally: The missing girl that Booker has been hired to find.
- The Lutece Twins: Enigmatic figures who have hired Booker to find Sally.
- Jeremiah Fink: A brilliant but unhinged scientist who has created a new type of Splicer.
- Daisy Fitzroy: A charismatic and dangerous leader of the Rapture Revolution.
Themes
Burial at Sea – Episode 1 explores a number of themes, including:
- The dangers of unchecked ambition: Rapture was founded on the ideals of individualism and freedom, but it ultimately collapsed due to the hubris of its creator, Andrew Ryan.
- The power of redemption: Booker DeWitt is a flawed and complex character, but he is given a chance to redeem himself in Burial at Sea – Episode 1.
- The nature of reality: The Tears in the fabric of reality play a major role in Burial at Sea – Episode 1, and they raise questions about the nature of choice and free will.
Conclusion
BioShock Infinite: Burial at Sea – Episode 1 is a must-play for fans of the BioShock series. It offers a thrilling return to the underwater city of Rapture, with a compelling story, new gameplay elements, and a cast of unforgettable characters. The DLC also explores a number of thought-provoking themes, making it a truly immersive and rewarding experience.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
