BioShock 4 Still in Development, Take-Two CEO Confirms
In a move set to reassure a fanbase waiting years for news, the head of Take-Two Interactive has broken the silence on the next highly anticipated BioShock game. Strauss Zelnick, CEO of the publisher, has definitively stated that the project is still in active development and will eventually see the light of day, putting to rest growing fears of its cancellation.
For years, details about the fourth mainline installment in the iconic BioShock franchise have been scarce, leading to widespread speculation about its status. In a recent interview, Zelnick addressed these concerns head-on with an unambiguous promise.
A Firm Promise Amid a Long Silence
The commitment from Take-Two's leadership is the most significant update on the project in a considerable time. The game was officially announced back in December 2019, when 2K Games revealed the formation of a new internal studio, Cloud Chamber, tasked specifically with developing the next iteration of the BioShock universe. At the time, the publisher stated the game would be in development for "the next several years."
Since that initial announcement, official information has been virtually nonexistent. This vacuum of news, combined with the project's long and reportedly complex development history, fueled rumors that the game might be in trouble or even shelved entirely. Zelnick's recent comments serve as a direct refutation of that narrative, positioning the game not as a question of "if," but simply "when." His words signal the publisher's unwavering belief in both the development team and the enduring power of the BioShock intellectual property.
The Troubled Waters of Development
The path to the next BioShock has not been a simple one. The project has been in some form of development for the better part of a decade, undergoing at least one major reboot before development was handed to the newly formed Cloud Chamber. The studio, with offices in Novato, California, and Montréal, Québec, was staffed with a mix of industry veterans, including some who had previously worked on the BioShock series.
Crafting a successor to a franchise celebrated for its narrative depth, atmospheric world-building, and unique gameplay mechanics is an immense challenge. The original BioShock and BioShock Infinite are considered landmark titles that pushed the boundaries of video game storytelling. Meeting, let alone exceeding, the high expectations set by these predecessors requires time, iteration, and a clear creative vision. The lengthy development cycle, while concerning for fans, may ultimately be a sign of the studio's dedication to getting it right and delivering an experience worthy of the BioShock name.
What We Know About the Next BioShock
While official plot and gameplay details remain under tight lock and key, several key pieces of information and persistent rumors have formed a speculative picture of the upcoming title.
- The Developer: Cloud Chamber is leading the project. This is significant as it's the first mainline title not developed by Irrational Games (now Ghost Story Games), which was led by series creator Ken Levine.
- The Engine: Job listings and industry reports have strongly indicated the game is being built using Unreal Engine 5, suggesting a significant technological and visual leap for the franchise.
- The Setting: The most prevalent rumor, stemming from early job descriptions and leaks, points to a brand-new setting: a 1960s Antarctic city named Borealis. This would mark a departure from the underwater city of Rapture and the sky-city of Columbia, continuing the series tradition of exploring unique, isolated dystopias.
- Creative Direction: The team at Cloud Chamber has emphasized a desire to create a game that carries forward the series' legacy of compelling narrative and thought-provoking themes, while also pushing the gameplay forward.
This new chapter is being developed without the direct involvement of Ken Levine, who is currently leading his team at Ghost Story Games on the upcoming title Judas. While his absence is notable, it also presents an opportunity for a new generation of creators at Cloud Chamber to offer their own unique take on the BioShock formula.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Next BioShock
Is BioShock 4 officially confirmed?
Yes. Development was officially announced by 2K Games in 2019. The recent comments from Take-Two's CEO serve as a powerful reaffirmation that the project is still moving forward.
Who is developing the new BioShock?
A new, dedicated 2K studio named Cloud Chamber is developing the game. The team is comprised of veteran developers with experience on a wide range of major franchises.
When will the new BioShock be released?
No release date or even a target release window has been announced. Strauss Zelnick’s confirmation assures fans that the game is coming, but the timeline remains a mystery.
Is Ken Levine working on the new BioShock?
No. Ken Levine, the creative director of the original BioShock and BioShock Infinite, is not directly involved. He is currently working on a separate, brand-new game called Judas.
While the wait for the next BioShock continues, the recent confirmation from the highest level of Take-Two Interactive has injected a fresh dose of optimism into the community. The publisher's commitment is clear, and for now, fans can rest easier knowing that somewhere, a new lighthouse is being built, ready to guide them to another unforgettable city full of secrets.