It’s been a long time since the lastBioshockrelease, and it looks like the wait won’t be over any time soon. For a few years,Bioshockwas a steady series, with the original trilogy releasing in 2007, 2010, and 2013 respectively. A fourth game has been gestating for much longer, albeit without the involvement of creator Ken Levine, who remains busy with thespiritual successorJudas.
According to aBloombergreport from Jason Schreier,Take-Two Interactive has shelved a 2K Games remake of the originalBioshock. A new entry in the series is also undergoing major shifts, with changes in leadership after a failed 2K Games review that highlighted the narrative as a weakness. 2K responded to aBloomberginquiry by stating that the company has “a good game” at the moment but is “committed to delivering a great one.”
A Bioshock Remake Has Apparently Been Shelved
No More Revisiting Rapture
The originalBioshockalready received a straightforward remaster, but theBloombergreport indicates that a more substantial remake has now been set aside. No reason is provided for the cancellation, soit’s unclear whether the remake was facing major issuesor simply ceased to be a priority. The remaster received heavy criticism upon its release for technical bugs, although it was ultimately updated to address the biggest problems.
As for the planned fourthBioshockgame, this isn’t the first indication that the project isn’t moving along as smoothly as 2K Games would like. In 2023, leaks suggested thatBioshock 4was in development hell, but 2024 job listings made it clear that development was moving along and potentially ramping up. With the report of internal pivots,it still isn’t likely to be arriving in the near future.
The Future Of Bioshock Is Looking Unclear
A Franchise At An Awkward Crossroads
Bioshock 4has always been a somewhat shaky project, at least from the outside, andBioshock Infinitemade for a natural conclusion to the trilogy. Take-Two clearly doesn’t want to waste the power of such a major IP, but bringing another game to life without the involvement of Ken Levine is likely an uphill battle.
Internal concerns about narrative are certainly troubling, as thestory ofBioshockhas always been one of its biggest selling points. It might be good that Take-Two is seemingly focused on improving the game before it comes to the market, although a mention of the company becoming “more agile and efficient” does raise concerns about lay-offs. Whatever the future ofBioshockmight hold, it’s certainly at a crossroads right now.
