BioShock

E3 enraptures us

Despite the repeated denials of publisher Take-Two, we always knew it must be coming, and so it is with smug satisfaction we sit down with label 2K's producer to talk about the PlayStation 3 version of BioShock.

Given the critical and commercial success of the Xbox 360 and PC original, 2K are quick to point out that they are well aware of the weight of responsibility, and the potential, that this new 'IP' possesses. This is why four separate studios are combining to "make the best game possible" for Sony's system. Development of BioShock PS3 is being handled by, deep breath, 2K Boston, 2K Marin, 2K Australia and external developer Digital Extremes.

It appears DE have been enlisted to get the best out of the underlying Unreal Engine 3 on the PS3.

As 2K begin their preview demonstration of the title, it feels really good to be heading back to Rapture; one of the most compelling gaming world's of any 2007 release. Refreshed for the PS3, the underwater utopia is looking better than ever, with lavishly detailed corridors and hallways, crisp enemies, and plenty of brooding ambience.

The producer talks at length about the way BioShock's various RPG-lite elements helped foster a different experience per-player; plasmids, weapons, upgrades and more combining to give everyone a slightly different game. Announcing exclusive downloadable content for the PS3, we're told that this side of the game will be further enhanced, optional extras and add-ons set to give the new version of the game even more expansive options.

While 2K assure us they are working hard to create a perfect version of the original singleplayer campaign on Sony's breadbin, we are told that the biggest change from the Xbox 360 edition will be the addition of new 'Challenge Rooms'. Billed as areas for exploration beyond and outside the core narrative (which will be untouched), these so-called 'discreet levels' will be instantly accessible when you boot up the game.

Several Challenge Rooms will be offered, apparently, and we were taken through one such stage, in which the player is tasked with helping a Little Sister stuck atop a ferris wheel. The wheel is broken, the player has no electricity plasmid, and so ensues a brief but taxing puzzle to deliver the required power in order to rotate the wheel. Without giving too much away, the solution involves an electric buck and an angry splicer.

Despite the fact that this new level isn't part of the core experience, 2K appear have poured plenty of love into creating yet another fascinating area of Rapture; playable carnival games, trademark humour and stylised detail combining to deliver another immersive part of the city to explore.

The enthusiastic 2K producer tells us that full PS3 Trophy support will be bundled as part of the adventure, while more content beyond the unique DLC, and the Challenge Rooms, will be unveiled in the future. Our demo over, we're left salivating at the prospect of another trip 'Beyond the Sea', enraptured by the suggestion that one of 2007's best action games could also be one of 2008's. More from E3 soon.

By Luke Guttridge