Bioshock 4's turbulent development continues with major leadership change

It's always tough to see a project get ground down by a rough development cycle. Rebrands, system overhauls, leadership changes, missed deadlines - all are signs that things aren't running as smoothly as anyone wants them to be. Some overcome the hurdles to reach the other side triumphantly - Dead Island 2 springs to mind. Others launch in a sorry state. Many will never actually make it into players' hands. I don't know what fate lies ahead for the new Bioshock game, but it's just been hit with another blow. 2K has confirmed to Bloomberg that it's made changes to the leadership at developer Cloud Chamber, following claims that Bioshock 4 failed a recent review by executives.

Bioshock 4 (officially confirmed title still pending) was announced all the way back in 2019, and remains one of the most highly anticipated upcoming PC games. That's despite the fact it reportedly changed hands between 2K teams on a couple of occasions before landing on Cloud Chamber's desk as its maiden project. The studio has been led by Kelley Gilmore, who is a well-respected former Firaxis veteran. But according to a new report by Bloomberg's Jason Schreier, Gilmore has been "ousted" from the studio and Bioshock 4's creative director, Hogarth de la Plante, has also been moved into a publishing role. Responding to Schreier's report, 2K has confirmed these leadership changes.

The reason for the radical restructuring of leadership is apparently due to the new Bioshock disappointing executives and failing a review. Schreier's sources claim that the game's narrative was a key area in need of improvement and will be "revamped" over the next few months.

Responding to Bloomberg's report, 2K says in a statement: "We are working hard to set Bioshock up for the best possible future. Right now, we have a good game, but we are committed to delivering a great one. We are working closely with leadership at the studio to define this path."

Despite having already lived a very difficult life, it seems like Bioshock 4 just can't catch a break. 2K's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, is about to deliver some major new entries in key franchises, such as Mafia The Old Country and Borderlands 4. Oh, and there's the small matter of the GTA 6 release date in the first half of next year. However, it may be some time before we finally get to see the next Bioshock game - a crying shame for a series so beloved and successful.

A remake of the original Bioshock has been speculated by many, and would at least fill the void Bioshock 4 is currently leaving. In his report, Schreier claims that 2K Games was indeed working on a remake, but sadly that the project has allegedly been shelved.

Until we hear more about Bioshock 4 (and hopefully it'll be positive news next time) here are some sensational single-player games you can play right away. If you're thinking of giving your setup a bit of a refresh, be sure to check out our guide to the best gaming monitors.

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