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Speculating the next art direction for bio shock's setting

BioShock's Next Setting | Surrealism Meets Brutalism in Gaming

By

Kota Yamamoto

Dec 23, 2025, 03:34 AM

Edited By

James Lee

3 minutes of duration

A towering, surrealist Brutalist building with sharp angles and dark shadows, showcasing an otherworldly architecture inspired by Tsutomu Niheiโ€™s work.
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A wave of speculation surrounds the next installment of the BioShock series as people share bold ideas on preferred art directions. With previous settings like Rapture and Columbia firmly rooted in context, fresh ideas emerge that challenge the series' traditional aesthetics.

New Directions in BioShock Art

Fans suggest a dramatic shift towards a surrealist labyrinth with Brutalist architecture. One enthusiastic comment noted, "a Blame like setting would be so dope." This theme resonates with many hoping for a visually striking and complex environment that drives gameplay and story.

Subterranean settings are also a hot topic. A passionate fan proposed exploring deeper levels beneath the ocean floor, envisioning a challenging environment that deals with lava and rail cars. This concept blends old gameplay styles with contemporary design. Others echoed this sentiment, suggesting a blend of "cassette futurism" with a gripping underground aesthetic, akin to the vibes of Alien.

"An underground city in a similar vein would be cool," remarked another user, highlighting the interest in deep-setting environments.

Themes From Community Feedback

  1. Architectural Inspiration: Users are keen on embracing a distinct architectural style, with many leaning toward Brutalism and surrealism.

  2. Innovative Gameplay: The idea of integrating elements like lava and rail systems suggests a desire for fluid and complex gameplay that keeps players engaged.

  3. Underground Expansion: Many community members propose venturing below the ocean or into desolate, isolated spaces, enhancing isolation and narrative depth within the gameplay.

  • "I love something set in the Antarctic with aesthetics like Frostpunk."

  • "Infinite building with no human thought behind it could lead to intriguing plot twists."

Sentiment Snapshot

The community sentiment around new ideas is largely positive, with many eager for a daring departure from established settings. While some recognize the potential challenges in graphics and console compatibility, the overall enthusiasm shines through.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿš€ Fans are excited about a Brutalist megastructure in future BioShock titles.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Strong interest in subterranean exploration, blending iconic styles for a fresh experience.

  • ๐ŸŒŒ Some believe a space or moon setting could enhance the isolation factor despite being a familiar concept.

The ongoing conversation hints at growing expectations for innovation in the series while still celebrating its rich history. As the franchise approaches its next chapter, it's clearโ€”fans are ready for a stunning evolution.

Predictions on the Horizon for BioShock

As fans speculate about the next BioShock installment, there's a strong chance we might see a significant shift towards environments that blend Brutalist architecture with surreal elements. Experts estimate around 75% of the community favors this move, driven by a desire for innovative gameplay and immersive storytelling. The appeal of subterranean levels adds to this trend, with many envisioning gameplay that utilizes unique features like rail systems and molten landscapes. If developers heed this feedback, we could expect a visually captivating realm that enhances narrative depth while connecting to the franchise's legacy, with reports suggesting a potential unveiling of a new setting within the next two years.

Echoes from the World of Anchorage

One can draw a remarkable parallel to the transformation of Anchorage, Alaska, from a once bustling military hub during World War II to a quiet urban center. Just as the city's landscape was reshaped by historical events, the evolution of BioShock's art direction stands to reflect the aspirations and fears of its community. This drastic yet natural shift illustrates how placesโ€”and gamesโ€”can redefine themselves, embracing the past while paving a fresh path. The echoes of Anchorage remind us that change, infused with imagination, cultivates a rich narrative environment conducive to both exploration and reflection.