Bioshock Creator Was Shocked by Irrational Games Closure

Summary

• Ken Levine reflects on the complicated closure of Irrational Games following the success of BioShock Infinite. He reveals the studio's shuttering was a surprise to most.
• Levine clarifies that while he anticipated the studio's continuation, he lacked control over the decision, stating, "I thought they were going to continue. But it wasn’t my company."
• Anticipation for BioShock 4 is high, with speculation of an open-world setting and hopes that 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. This unexpected event shocked many, including Levine himself. He led the development of the acclaimed BioShock series, including the original 2007 title, 2013's BioShock Infinite, and its DLC, Burial at Sea.

In 2014, following BioShock Infinite's release, Levine announced Irrational Games' closure. The studio was later rebranded as Ghost Story Games in 2017, remaining a Take-Two subsidiary. This closure comes amidst a challenging period for the video game industry, marked by significant layoffs at various prominent companies.

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, which contributed to his desire to leave Irrational. However, he hoped the studio would continue despite his departure. He emphasized the unexpected nature of the closure, stating, "I thought they were going to continue. But it wasn’t my company." Irrational Games, renowned for System Shock 2 and BioShock Infinite, faced unforeseen pressures stemming from Levine's personal circumstances during Infinite's development, ultimately leading to his departure. He reflected, "I don’t think I was in any state to be a good leader."

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 is undeniable. Levine believes Take-Two could have utilized Irrational's talent on a BioShock remake, suggesting, "That would have been a good title for Irrational to get their head around." Demonstrating his respect for the Irrational team, Levine aimed to make the layoffs "the least painful we could possibly do," offering transition packages and support.

The announcement of BioShock 4 has generated considerable excitement. Many believe the upcoming installment can learn from the experiences of BioShock Infinite's development. While announced five years ago, an official release date remains unconfirmed as 2K and Cloud Chamber Studios continue development. Fans speculate a potential open-world setting, while retaining the series' signature first-person perspective.