Bioshock Infinite...*no spoilers*

I've been playing video/computer games for the last 30 years. I still have every console and computer I have ever owned, and I have favourites on each of them. But none of them could possibly have prepared me for this. Everything about this game is stunning. The amount of artwork that went into this game...man, I've explored the environments of games before, but only with the intent of searching for loot. With this game, I'm examining the texture of the bricks on buildings hidden behind torn posters. I remember playing Halo for the first time and admiring the grass texture, Bioshock Infinite takes that to the nth level.

Playing the game, it's a Bioshock game, but only in spirit. The claustrophobic corridors of it's predeccessors make way for large open expanses that you fear to stand still in for too long, as shots can come from any angle. The weapon system has also had a tweak, bringing in a Halo-esque two-weapon system. At first I thought this was a bit of a handicap, until I realised there was more than enough ammo kicking about the game for any weapon I selected. Elizabeth, possibly the most well-written video game character ever, also reverses the typical escort-mission npc character; far from being slow and unable to defend herself, she is invincible and constantly comes to YOUR aid. She, in effect, is escorting YOU. A bond is created between the two of you the likes of which has rarely been seen in games.

Then there's the actual story...that ending. I had to switch the Xbox off, make a cup of tea, and have a think about it. Was it a good or a bad ending? Is there an alternative, like previous Bioshocks have offered? I eventually came to a conclusion, which has since been proven correct. All I will say is it DEMANDS a second playthrough, which I am currently engaged in; this time I'm looking even more intently at the details.