BioShock has left an indelible mark on the gaming universe, establishing itself as a groundbreaking creation. Throughout its three titles released between 2007 and 2013, the series consistently refined and expanded various aspects, often yielding positive outcomes. It notably improved its combat and exploration elements. With the announcement in 2019 that developer Cloud Chamber would be helming BioShock 4, fans have eagerly awaited the unveiling of the fourth installment's contributions to these and other aspects.
Avowed is the much-anticipated upcoming first-person RPG from Obsidian Entertainment, revealed in 2020. Set in the universe of the studio's previous CRPG series, Pillars of Eternity, it combines fantasy with elements of advanced technology. While it is open-world, albeit on a smaller scale compared to some contemporaries, it incorporates traditional weaponry like swords, axes, as well as spells, wands, and even firearms in its array of combat features. Players can dual-wield combinations of these, a feature also present in the recent BioShock titles. Given these and other similarities, BioShock 4 could potentially complement Avowed in various aspects.
BioShock 4 Might Turn Out to be Avowed's Sci-Fi Equivalent
Common Features in BioShock and Avowed: Combat and Exploration
Dual-wielding has become a standard mechanic in many action/FPS games, offering players enhanced freedom. Although not present in the original, BioShock 2 and BioShock: Infinite allowed players to dual-wield weapons and plasmid/vigor powers, enabling them to adapt swiftly to diverse enemies and situations. The recent gameplay reveal for Avowed confirmed the inclusion of dual-wielding, mirroring BioShock's approach and functionality.
BioShock progressively expanded its level design, evolving from a relatively linear progression to providing players with more autonomy to explore at their own pace in manageable settings. While Avowed may have a smaller open-world scope, it is expected to offer ample space for players to engage with its world, showcasing similarities to BioShock.
BioShock 4 Could Closely Mirror Avowed's Design
While much about BioShock 4 remains shrouded in mystery, with scant details and sporadic updates, several hints indicate its potential direction. Speculations suggest that, akin to Avowed, BioShock 4 may embrace a semi-open-world approach, which, if executed adeptly, could deliver gratifying and fresh combat and exploration experiences, while retaining the distinctive BioShock essence.
Despite BioShock leaning towards a 1950s retro steampunk aesthetic, in contrast to the darker fantasy framework of Avowed, the disparities in their combat systems, game environments, and other elements appear relatively narrow. BioShock 4 seems poised to build upon its foundations and reflect the promises made by Avowed. Alongside potential new surprises and twists, BioShock 4 appears to be aligning with Avowed in key aspects.