Bioshock Creator Was Shocked by Irrational Games Closure

Ken Levine reflects on the unexpected closure of Irrational Games after the success of BioShock Infinite, calling the decision "complicated." He reveals the studio's shutdown surprised most of its employees, stating, "I thought they were going to continue. But it wasn’t my company."

Irrational Games, co-founded by Levine, Chey, and Fermier, created the acclaimed BioShock franchise. Following BioShock Infinite's release in 2013, Levine announced the studio's closure in 2014. It 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 elaborated on the closure. He acknowledged personal struggles during BioShock Infinite's development, leading to his desire to leave Irrational, but he expected the studio to continue. The unexpected closure, he confirmed, shocked many. Levine admits, "I don’t think I was in any state to be a good leader" during that period. Irrational's legacy includes System Shock 2 and the BioShock series.

Levine's Post-Irrational Reflections on BioShock Infinite and the Future of the Franchise

Despite BioShock Infinite's critical and commercial success, Levine believes Take-Two could have allowed Irrational to tackle a BioShock remake. He aimed for "the least painful lay-off we could possibly do," providing transition packages and support.

Anticipation for BioShock 4 is high. Announced five years ago, its release date remains unconfirmed as 2K and Cloud Chamber Studios continue development. Many fans believe BioShock 4 can learn from the experiences surrounding BioShock Infinite's launch and speculate it may feature an open-world setting, while retaining the first-person perspective of previous titles.