Bioshock Infinite was one of the most interesting and thought-provoking games of recent years. With themes of racism, jingoism, and class disparity, among others, the game raised many hard questions for players to wrestle. The game was also intense with a plethora of firefights with homicidal George Washington robots and misguided racists among other enemies.
Needless to say, the game was an assault on the senses. The floating city of Columbia was a visual treat, the music was great, the gameplay was intense, and the questions raised required thought from the player. With so much going on, the game could be a tad overwhelming, and I did not even bring up the quantum mechanics, parallel universes, and other science topics. While the game had its quiet, reflective moments, for the most part, none were especially memorable. This moment in question was the polar opposite.
Early in the game, the Booker and Elizabeth are in a part of Columbia named Shantytown. The duo comes across a bar and in the basement; they find a guitar. What’s an intrepid duo running for their lives to do? Why take a breather and enjoy some music of course! What is interesting is the song of choice. The song is the hymn, “Will The Circle Be Unbroken?” The song choice is interesting because of the ties and foreshadowing related to the narrative, which are best discussed elsewhere, or better yet, experienced! The song is very touching and really strengthens the bond towards both characters felt by the player, especially Elizabeth. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the song is that the song is performed by the voice actors for Booker and Elizabeth. While the scene in the game is brief, during the credits, you can watch the filming of the song and listen to it in its entirety.
Here is the scene from the game.
Here is the beautiful song in complete form.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0e4Crth_Hb8