PowerGamers

BioShock Infinite is a first-person shooter video game developed by Irrational Games, and published by 2K Games. Previously known as "Project Icarus" in development, it was released worldwide on the Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 platforms on March 26, 2013. An Aspyr port to OS X was later released on August 29, 2013. BioShock Infinite is the third installment in the BioShock series, and though it is not immediately part of the storyline of previous BioShock games, it does feature similar gameplay concepts and themes. The game's concept and setting were developed by Irrational's creative lead, Ken Levine, who took inspiration from both historical events at the turn of the 20th century, as well as more recent ones at the time such as the "Occupy" protests.
Set in 1912 during the growth of American exceptionalism, the game has protagonist, former Pinkerton agent Booker DeWitt, sent to the floating air city of Columbia to find a young woman, Elizabeth, who has been held captive there for most of her life. Though Booker rescues Elizabeth, the two become involved with the city's warring factions: the nativist and elite Founders that strive to keep the city for pure Americans, and the Vox Populi, rebels representing the common people. During this conflict, Booker learns that Elizabeth possesses strange powers to manipulate rifts in the space-time continuum that ravage Columbia, and discovers her to be central to the city's secrets.
The player controls Booker throughout the game, eventually working with the AI-controlled Elizabeth. Like previous BioShock games, the player uses a combination of weapons, gear, and psychokinetic powers granted through vigors. Elizabeth's powers can also be used to help fight hostile forces. In contrast to the limited spaces of the underwater city of Rapture, the open air city of Columbia provides for more combat challenges, including combat that takes place aboard the city's Sky-Line rollercoaster-like rail system. Downloadable content for the game includes a story-based mission, Burial at Sea, that links Infinite's story to that of the first two BioShock games.
BioShock Infinite won over 85 pre-release awards for its display at E3 2011, including Best of Show from the Game Critics Awards. Upon release, the game was critically acclaimed by many reviewers who particularly praised its story, setting and visual aesthetics. Its themes of political and religious beliefs, and the use of excessively violent imagery have also raised controversy. BioShock Infinite sold over 3.7 million retail copies within the first two months of its release, and has since sold more than 4 million copies overall. The game received numerous year-end awards and nominations, including winning the Inside Gaming awards for Best Art and Best Story, and the Spike VGX award for Best Shooter, and was repeatedly recognized as one of the best games of 2013.