It’s now been over seven years since the release ofBioShockInfinite, although it looks as though fans may soon have something to look forward to in the release ofBioShock4. No official release date or window has been set for the long-awaited reboot of theBioShockfranchise, but if job postings are anything to go by, the development ofBioShock 4is now beginning to ramp up. The job postings suggestBioShock4could take the series in a new direction, more akin to an open-world RPG than its fairly linear first-person shooter roots. However, fans may be hoping to see one classic enemy return inBioShock4.
The Big Daddy enemy type became an instant hit with fans upon its introduction to the originalBioShock. It represented a uniquely horrifying enemy type at the time and has maintained its status as a gaming icon since. Despite this, the Big Daddy was absent from much ofBioShockInfinite, only appearing as a cosmetic Easter Egg in theBurial at Sea DLC. This proved to be disappointing to fans, although the game’s Heavy Hitters did provide a similar experience to that of the Big Daddy. There are a number of arguments to be made for or against the Big Daddies’ involvement inBioShock4, with either side having a good case to make.
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Pros of Big Daddy in BioShock 4
The Bouncer Big Daddy is iconic as a symbol for theBioShockseries. It is a unique enemy type with a recognizable drill for a hand that has proven to be perfect for fan art. As such, the Bouncer Big Daddy has become synonymous with theBioShockfranchise in media. Due to their celebrated status within theBioShockfandom, it may make sense for them to appear inthe nextBioShockgame. While the Heavy Hitters ofBioShockInfinitehad fans scrambling to developer interviews to find out the backstory of the series’ all-new horrific creations, the absence of the Big Daddy didn’t go unnoticed.
The Big Daddywas an imposing enemy type in the originalBioShock, its horrific whale sounds never failing to fill the player with dread. Beyond their appearance, however, the Big Daddies also provided a challenge in gameplay, with potentially great rewards should the player be successful in their battle. In any case, they would be welcomed back byBioShockfans with open arms. The return of the Big Daddy could be a huge selling point forBioShock4if Cloud Chamber wishes it to be. As mentioned, their absence fromBioShockInfiniteraised a few eyebrows, and the return of such an emblematic enemy could only spell good news.
Cons of Big Daddy in BioShock4
When speaking aboutBioShockInfinite’sHeavy Hitters, Creative Director Ken Levine mentioned how Irrational Games wanted a Heavy Hitter that would represent the clear system of beliefs of the founders.The Patriot, for example, was used to highlight the technical prowess of Columbia, but also the political beliefs of the founders. Named the Motorized Patriot, it bears the face of George Washington and sports American flags over each shoulder.BioShockInfinite’sMotorized Patriot is relentless and aggressive, not fearing anything the player can throw at it, but at the same time, its moves are easily telegraphed. The Patriot is used as a terrifying symbol of the player’s main foe inBioShockInfinite, showing the player exactly who they’re up against.
BioShock 4looks set to be a shakeup of theBioShockfranchise.Job postings forBioShock4suggest the reboot of theBioShockseries will be an open-world game with branching dialogue systems. It seems as though the upcomingBioShockgame will truly offer fans something new. This could mean it’s a good time to try something new in other areas, including designing some all-new enemy types that will work in the Open World RPG setting ofBioShock4. to create some daunting enemies that do a good bit of world-building, taking some inspiration fromBioShockInfinite’sHeavy Hitters wouldn’t go amiss.
