Last month, Irrational Games posted a survey asking their fans for feedback on the way they play video games. The reason for this survey was because a new idea had hit the table about including a more difficult mode of play, one that drastically changes the way a gamer would approach the latest installment of the BioShock franchise.
Thanks to all the feedback that Irrational received from the fans, they have decided to press forward with this new mode. Today, Irrational Games has announced the new 1999 mode. This new mode is not just a higher difficulty level either.
“BioShock Infinite’s 1999 Mode will feature an especially demanding gaming experience, forcing you to examine your decisions while going through your adventure in Columbia. With every choice you make, there are irreversible implications, and if your choices guide you down a path not suited to your play style, you will suffer for it.”
Resource planning, weapons specializations, and strategic game saves will all play major roles in any attempt at defeating this mode. Even Ken Levine, Irrational Games Creative Director said “there are game saves, and you’re gonna f***ing need them.”
“We want to give our oldest and most committed fans an option to go back to our roots,” said Levine. “In 1999 Mode, gamers face more of the permanent consequences of their gameplay decisions. In BioShock Infinite, gamers will have to sweat out the results of their actions. In addition, 1999 Mode will demand that players pick specializations, and focus on them.”
Although adding this new feature means that the game may not be available as soon as we once thought, I’m sure we can all agree that we would be willing to wait to get this level of quality gaming.