While not as compelling in its storyline (though less ripped off from System Shock 2 at least), "BioShock 2" addresses nearly everything that was wrong with its predecessor: Combat is more satisfying, hacking is no longer a chore, NPCs look a bit less like motorized china dolls, the moral choice system is woven better into the story, and they even made the escort missions fun! If you wanted to see what "BioShock" could have been like if they'd ironed out the kinks, or just want to see more of Rapture, this game will not disappoint.

P.S. Be sure to get "Minerva's Den" as well when you're done. It's totally worth it.

If you've ever wondered how you and your friends would hold up in a real-life zombie apocalypse scenario, this game comes as close as it gets to capturing the oppressive atmosphere and desperate need for coordination and teamwork you'd need to take on hordes of not-quite-undead. And if you prefer classic shooters like Quake to modern Half-Life and System Shock derivatives, you'll appreciate the stripped-down gameplay and relative lack of setpieces compared to the sequel.

What this game lacks in core combat (although it offers numerous ways to get creative), it more than makes up for in story and atmosphere. A dystopian story and setting that wouldn't be out of place among "1984", "Brave New World", and "Logan's Run", and yet wholly unique... It's often been asked "Can games be art?" My answer to that question is simply "BioShock."