Bioshock Creator Was Shocked by Irrational Games Closure

Summary

• Ken Levine reflects on the complicated closure of Irrational Games after the success of BioShock Infinite, a decision that surprised him.
• He reveals that he expected the studio to continue, despite his departure, but ultimately, it wasn't his decision.
• Anticipation builds for BioShock 4, potentially an open-world title, with fans hoping lessons learned from BioShock Infinite's development will be applied.

Ken Levine, creative director and co-founder of Irrational Games, offers a retrospective on the studio's closure under Take-Two Interactive, a shock to many involved. Levine, known for his work on the BioShock series (including BioShock Infinite and its DLC, Burial at Sea), announced Irrational Games' closure in 2014 following BioShock Infinite's release. The studio was later rebranded as Ghost Story Games in 2017, remaining a Take-Two subsidiary.

In a recent interview with Edge Magazine (via PC Gamer), Levine described the decision to close Irrational as "complicated." He candidly discussed personal struggles during BioShock Infinite's development, leading to his own departure but with a hope for the studio's continued operation. "I thought they were going to continue. But it wasn’t my company," he stated, highlighting the unexpected nature of the closure for most of the team. Irrational Games, famed for System Shock 2 and BioShock Infinite, faced unforeseen pressures stemming from Levine's personal challenges during Infinite's development, prompting his decision to step down. "I don’t think I was in any state to be a good leader," he explained.

BioShock Infinite's Ken Levine Explains Why Irrational Games' Closure Came as a Shock

Despite the somber tone of BioShock Infinite, its impact on gamers was undeniable. Reflecting on its success, Levine suggested that Take-Two could have allowed Irrational to work on a BioShock remake, stating, "That would have been a good title for Irrational to get their head around." He prioritized a smooth transition for the team, aiming for "the least painful lay-off we could possibly do," providing transition packages and continued support.

With the announcement of BioShock 4, fans eagerly anticipate the next installment, hoping it will benefit from the lessons learned during BioShock Infinite's development. While announced five years ago, an official release date remains elusive as 2K and Cloud Chamber Studios continue development. Speculation points towards a potential open-world setting, while retaining the first-person perspective of its predecessors.