Bioshock TV Tropes: A Dive into the Drowned City's Twisted Depths

Bioshock, the acclaimed first-person shooter video game series, has captivated players with its immersive storylines, stunning visuals, and haunting atmosphere. Beyond its core gameplay, Bioshock boasts a wealth of TV tropes that enhance its narrative and world-building.

The Sinking City: Rapture and Columbia

• Underwater City: Bioshock's underwater city of Rapture, with its Art Deco architecture and eerie bioluminescent glow, embodies the trope of a submerged metropolis. This setting creates a sense of claustrophobia and isolation, amplifying the psychological horrors that unfold within.
• Floating City: In Bioshock Infinite, the floating city of Columbia ascends above the clouds, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective. This trope emphasizes the grandeur and ambition of the city's creators, while also hinting at its eventual downfall.

The Genetic Marvels: Plasmids and Vigors

• Superhuman Abilities: Bioshock's Plasmids and Bioshock Infinite's Vigors grant players a range of superhuman abilities, such as telekinesis, electric shock, and pyrotechnics. These abilities empower players and add variety to the combat experience.
• Genetic Engineering: The Plasmids and Vigors are products of genetic engineering, a trope that explores the ethical implications of scientific advancements. The game raises questions about the consequences of manipulating the human body for power or control.

The Social Dystopias: Objectivism and Exceptionalism

• Ayn Rand's Objectivism: Bioshock's founder, Andrew Ryan, is heavily influenced by the philosophy of Ayn Rand's Objectivism, which emphasizes individualism and the rejection of collectivism. This ideology shapes the city's societal structure and contributes to its eventual demise.
• American Exceptionalism: Bioshock Infinite's protagonist, Booker DeWitt, is a former Pinkerton agent who embodies the trope of American exceptionalism. His belief in the superiority of the United States sets him on a path that ultimately unravels both his own destiny and that of Columbia.

The Psychological Horrors: Madness and Addiction

• Psychological Horror: Bioshock's atmosphere is steeped in psychological horror, with its eerie environments, unsettling sound design, and disturbing encounters with the city's mutated denizens. The game explores the themes of madness, addiction, and the fragility of the human mind.
• ADAM Addiction: ADAM, the genetic material that powers Plasmids, is highly addictive. Its use deteriorates users' mental and physical health, leading to grotesque mutations and psychological breakdowns. This trope emphasizes the devastating consequences of substance abuse.

The Narrative Twists: Time Loops and Alternate Dimensions

• Time Loops: Bioshock Infinite utilizes time loops as a narrative device, allowing players to experience alternative timelines and make choices that affect the game's outcome. This trope adds layers of complexity to the story and encourages players to explore different possibilities.
• Parallel Dimensions: The game also introduces the concept of parallel dimensions, as Columbia exists in an alternate timeline from Rapture. This trope opens up the possibility for multiple storylines and alternate perspectives on the game's events.

The Tables of Distinctions

The Strategies of Exploration

1. Embrace the Darkness: Delve into the depths of Rapture or the heights of Columbia, immersing yourself in their haunting environments.
2. Investigate Every Nook and Cranny: Discover hidden stashes, audio logs, and environmental storytelling that enhance the game's narrative.
3. Experiment with Abilities: Use Plasmids or Vigors creatively to overcome challenges and explore alternate approaches to combat.
4. Engage with the Characters: Converse with memorable characters, such as Jack Ryan, Elizabeth, or Booker DeWitt, to deepen your understanding of the story.

The Benefits of Immersion

• Emotional Resonance: Bioshock's atmosphere evokes a range of emotions, from awe to fear to melancholy, creating a lasting impact on players.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: The game raises questions about the nature of humanity, the dangers of scientific hubris, and the consequences of societal choices.
• Narrative Complexity: The intertwining storylines and multiple timelines add depth and replayability to the gaming experience.

The Pros and Cons of Choice

Pros

• Player Agency: Time loops and alternate dimensions empower players to make choices that shape the narrative.
• Exploration of Consequences: Players can witness the ramifications of their decisions, adding weight to the gameplay.
• Enhanced Story Appreciation: Multiple playthroughs offer different perspectives and insights into the game's plot.

Cons

• Potential for Overwhelm: The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming for some players.
• Difficulty Remembering Timeline: Keeping track of different timelines can be challenging, especially during repeat playthroughs.
• Circuitous Progression: Navigating time loops and alternate dimensions may slow down the pace of gameplay.