Video games have evolved into a multifaceted form of art and storytelling, blending intricate narratives with immersive gameplay. Two games that have garnered significant attention in the horror genre are Bendy and the Ink Machine and BioShock. Along with their distinct styles and settings, both games offer rich stories, compelling themes, and unique gameplay experiences. This essay delves into the intricate details of these games, comparing their stories, themes, and gameplay mechanics. Additionally, it explores the contrasting experiences of their climactic moments, particularly focusing on Bendy and the Ink Machine's negative end boss experience and BioShock's acclaimed twist ending.
Bendy and the Ink Machine, developed by Joey Drew Studios and “the Meatley” in 2018, is set in an abandoned animation studio that once produced cartoons featuring a character named Bendy. The protagonist, Henry Stein, is a retired animator who returns to the studio after receiving a mysterious letter from his former employer, Joey Drew. Upon arrival, Henry discovers that the studio is plagued by ink monsters, and the once joyful environment has turned into a nightmarish labyrinth.
As the game progresses, players uncover the dark history of the studio, including Joey Drew's descent into madness and his unethical experiments to bring cartoon characters to life using a mystical ink machine. The narrative unfolds through a series of chapters, each revealing more about the sinister transformation of the studio and its inhabitants.
Bendy and the Ink Machine is a first-person survival horror game that emphasizes exploration and puzzle-solving. Players navigate the dilapidated studio, solving environmental puzzles and uncovering hidden secrets. The game's art style, reminiscent of early 20th-century animation, creates a unique atmosphere that enhances the horror elements.
The game delves into themes of nostalgia, corruption, and the loss of innocence. The game juxtaposes the whimsical nature of classic cartoons with the horror of a decaying studio. This contrast highlights the corrupting influence of power and ambition, as Joey Drew's desire to revolutionise animation leads to monstrous consequences.
The theme of nostalgia is evident in Henry's journey through the studio, reflecting on his past work and the innocence of the early days of animation. However, this nostalgia is tainted by the dark secrets lurking within the studio's walls. The game also explores the idea of creator versus creation, as the ink creatures represent the unintended consequences of Joey's hubris.
Combat is relatively simplistic, involving basic melee attacks and limited weaponry. The primary focus is on evading enemies and managing resources rather than engaging in direct combat. This design choice reinforces the sense of vulnerability and tension, as players must carefully navigate the environment to survive.
BioShock, developed by Irrational Games and released in 2007, is set in the underwater city of Rapture, a utopian society founded by Andrew Ryan. The player assumes the role of Jack, who survives a plane crash and discovers Rapture while searching for refuge. However, Rapture is far from the paradise it was intended to be. The city has fallen into chaos due to the widespread misuse of ADAM, a genetic material that grants superhuman abilities.
The story of BioShock is rich with philosophical undertones, exploring themes of objectivism, free will, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. As Jack navigates through Rapture, he encounters various characters, including the enigmatic Atlas and the tyrannical Ryan. The narrative reaches a critical turning point with the revelation that Jack is a pawn in a larger scheme, manipulated by the phrase "Would you kindly?" This twist fundamentally alters the player's perception of the game's events and their own agency within the story.
BioShock is renowned for its exploration of complex philosophical themes. The game critiques the ideals of objectivism, a philosophy espoused by Andrew Ryan, who envisioned Rapture as a haven for individuals free from government and societal constraints. However, the city's descent into anarchy illustrates the flaws in Ryan's utopian vision, highlighting the dangers of extreme individualism and the lack of ethical oversight.
The theme of free will is central to BioShock, particularly through the game's twist involving Jack's manipulation. This revelation forces players to question their own autonomy within the game, as they realize that their actions were guided by an external force. The interplay between power and control is also evident in the dynamics between the player, the citizens of Rapture, and the various factions vying for dominance.
BioShock combines first-person shooting with RPG elements, offering a diverse range of gameplay mechanics. Players can wield an array of weapons and use Plasmids, genetic modifications that grant special abilities. This combination allows for varied combat strategies, encouraging players to experiment with different approaches to overcome enemies.
The game's environment is highly interactive, with numerous opportunities for players to use the surroundings to their advantage. For example, players can electrify water to damage enemies or hack security systems to turn the tide of battle. Gameplay is designed to be immersive and dynamic, providing a rich and engaging experience that complements the narrative.
One of the most criticized aspects of Bendy and the Ink Machine is its end boss encounter. The final confrontation with Beast Bendy is often described as underwhelming and frustrating. The battle consists of repetitive mechanics and lacks the intensity expected from a climactic moment. Players are required to navigate a series of rooms, activating switches while avoiding the lumbering Beast Bendy. This sequence feels more like an extended puzzle than a traditional boss fight, resulting in a sense of anticlimax.
Moreover, the game's ambiguous ending leaves many questions unanswered, which can be disappointing for players who have invested in the story. While ambiguity can be effective in certain narratives, it contributes to the overall feeling of dissatisfaction with the conclusion.
In contrast, BioShock is celebrated for its masterful twist ending. The revelation that Jack has been manipulated by the phrase "Would you kindly?" recontextualizes the entire game, forcing players to reconsider their actions and the illusion of choice. This twist is not only shocking but also deeply impactful, as it ties directly into the game's themes of control and free will.
The final confrontation with Frank Fontaine, who reveals himself as the true antagonist, provides a satisfying conclusion to the narrative. The battle is challenging yet fair, utilizing the game's mechanics in a way that feels rewarding for players. The multiple endings, determined by the player's choices regarding the Little Sisters, add further depth to the conclusion, offering a sense of closure that reflects the moral decisions made throughout the game.
While Bendy and the Ink Machine provides an intriguing exploration of the dark side of creativity and ambition, its end boss experience and ambiguous conclusion leave room for improvement. In contrast, BioShock's blend of compelling gameplay, thought-provoking themes, and a masterful twist ending offers a holistic and gratifying experience. Both games, despite their differences, contribute significantly to the evolution of narrative-driven horror games, each leaving a lasting impact on players in their own distinct ways.
