A recent report reveals unsettling details about the BioShock franchise`s future. Bloomberg indicates that the new BioShock game, announced in 2019 by developer Cloud Chamber, reportedly “failed an internal review,” leading to the cancellation of a planned remake of the original title.
The game`s storyline was specifically cited as needing significant improvements, according to the report. A source suggests the narrative is now set for a complete overhaul.
Furthermore, 2K Games reportedly “removed” studio head Kelley Gilmore, and creative director Hogarth de la Plante was reallocated to a “publishing position.” A recent all-hands meeting at Cloud Chamber, where discussions focused on increasing “agility and efficiency,” reportedly sparked concerns among employees about potential layoffs.
A 2K Games spokesperson informed Bloomberg that while Cloud Chamber currently has a “good game,” the publisher aims to deliver an “exceptional” one. The spokesperson also confirmed the leadership changes.
Regarding the rumored BioShock remake, the report simply stated it was “put on hold earlier this year.”
BioShock stands as one of Take-Two`s thirteen franchises with individual game sales exceeding 5 million units. The entire series has collectively sold over 43 million copies. Additionally, a BioShock film adaptation is currently in development for Netflix.
Cloud Chamber, a newly established 2K studio with no prior game releases, is developing BioShock 4.
Cloud Chamber is characterized as a “group of storytellers dedicated to advancing interactive entertainment through creating distinctive, engaging, and profound experiences.” The studio operates out of offices in San Francisco and Montreal.
Ken Levine, the original creator of BioShock, has no involvement whatsoever with BioShock 4.
Levine stated, “I don`t want to do half measures. I never want to be half in half out. I wish them the best. I know essentially as much about the game as anyone else. And I`ll play it as a player when it comes out.”
Meanwhile, Levine remains affiliated with Take-Two and is currently developing his own game, Judas.