Rumors of the BioShock franchise's return have circulated for years, with whispers of a new installment in development since 2018. Now, a fresh report from industry insider Kurakasis suggests that 2K is preparing to unveil something significant for the beloved series, potentially BioShock 4, through an alternate reality game (ARG) centered on the iconic underwater city of Rapture.
According to Kurakasis, 2K is planning a BioShock-related ARG event, though its exact purpose remains unclear. In a post on X, Kurakasis stated, “I know that ARG related to BioShock (maybe for BioShock 4, maybe a remake or the movie) is being planned, but I don’t know if it’s supposed to happen before or after the reveal of the project it’s tied to. This ARG is supposed to be about Rapture.” The mention of Rapture, the dystopian setting of the original BioShock and its sequel, has sparked speculation about whether this ARG is tied to BioShock 4, a potential remake of the first game, or even the BioShock movie adaptation announced in 2022.
The report points to BioShock 4 as the most likely candidate, given 2K’s 2019 announcement that Cloud Chamber, a new studio, was formed to develop the next BioShock game. However, previous reports have suggested that BioShock 4 may not be set in Rapture, which could indicate the ARG is instead promoting a remake or the Netflix-produced movie. Rapture’s prominence in BioShock’s identity makes it a natural choice for promotional material, regardless of the project’s setting. The movie, however, seems less likely, as Netflix has no notable history of using ARGs for promotion.
Readers should approach this news with caution, as Kurakasis has been inconsistent with past claims. Neither 2K, Cloud Chamber, nor Netflix have commented on the report, and no official confirmation has surfaced. Until more details emerge, the prospect of a Rapture-themed ARG and a potential BioShock 4 reveal remains an exciting but unverified development for fans of the series.
What’s Next for the BioShock Franchise
The BioShock series, known for its atmospheric storytelling and philosophical depth, has been dormant since BioShock Infinite in 2013. The 2019 formation of Cloud Chamber to work on BioShock 4 marked a significant step, but six years of silence have left fans eager for updates. If Kurakasis’ report holds true, the Rapture-themed ARG could be a precursor to BioShock 4’s reveal, potentially offering a fresh story or a return to the franchise’s roots. Alternatively, a remake of the original BioShock, with its iconic Rapture setting, could be in the works to reintroduce the series to new audiences.
Beyond gaming, Netflix is developing a BioShock movie adaptation, announced in 2022. While details remain scarce, the project aims to bring Rapture’s haunting world to the screen. Whether the ARG ties to this film or a new game, the BioShock franchise appears poised for a resurgence, with its legacy of thought-provoking narratives and immersive world-building ready to captivate fans once more.
