Anonymous edits have been disabled on the wiki. If you want to contribute please login or create an account.

Difference between revisions of "BioShock 2"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
m (→‎Video settings: updated multi-mon method)
m (→‎Game crashes in DirectX 10 mode: General maintenance with AutoWikiBrowser in Bot mode)
 
(348 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
 +
{{disambig|the original version|the remastered version|[[BioShock 2 Remastered]]}}
 
{{Infobox game
 
{{Infobox game
|cover        = Bioshock2CoverBox.jpg
+
|cover        = BioShock 2 cover.jpg
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|2K Marin}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|2K Marin}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|2K China}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|2K China}}
{{Infobox game/row/osxporter|Feral Interactive}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|2K Australia}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Iron Galaxy Studios|DLC (PC porting)}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Digital Extremes|Multiplayer}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Feral Interactive|OS X}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Open Planet Software|OS X|ref=<ref>[https://support.feralinteractive.com/en/mac-games/bioshock2/ Feral Support | BioShock 2]</ref>}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|2K Games}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|2K Games}}
Line 13: Line 18:
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|February 9, 2010}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|February 9, 2010}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|March 29, 2012}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|March 29, 2012}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|bioshock-2|88}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|bioshock-2|87}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, DLC }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | First-person }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Immersive Sim, RPG, Shooter }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Realistic, Stylized }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Sci-fi, Steampunk }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | BioShock }}
 
|steam appid  = 8850
 
|steam appid  = 8850
|gogcom page  =  
+
|steam appid side = 244610
 +
|gogcom id    = 1111208428
 +
|official site= http://www.bioshock2game.com/
 +
|hltb        = 1066
 +
|lutris      = bioshock-2
 +
|strategywiki = BioShock 2
 +
|mobygames    = 45089
 
|wikipedia    = BioShock 2
 
|wikipedia    = BioShock 2
 +
|winehq      = 11104
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
{{Series|BioShock}}
 
  
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
{{ii}} Uses [[SecuROM]] DRM with unlimited activations and an available revoke tool.
+
|introduction      =
{{ii}} It is possible to [[#Disable_GFWL_using_Timeslip.27s_bioshock2-xlive.7z|disable GFWL]].
+
 
 +
|release history  = Steam version DRM switched from [[Games for Windows - LIVE]] and [[SecuROM]] to [[Steam]].<ref name="Steamworks">[https://store.steampowered.com/news/11567/ News - BioShock 2 Updated]</ref> The Steamworks patch introduced some audio level balance issues.<ref name="audioBalanceIssues">[https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=322637977 Fix Quiet Guns and Unbalanced Audio - Restoring the Retail Audio Mix]</ref>
 +
 
 +
|current state    = Ragdoll physics and animations are locked at 30 FPS.
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
{{mm}} [http://forums.2kgames.com/forumdisplay.php?16-BioShock-Series 2K Games Forum]
+
{{mm}} [https://forums.2k.com/forumdisplay.php?71-BioShock-amp-BioShock-2-General-Discussion 2K Games Forum]
{{mm}} [http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=304 Steam Users' Forums] - for [[BioShock]] and BioShock 2.
+
{{GOG.com links|1111208428|bioshock_series|for game series}}
 +
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/8850/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
 +
 
 +
==Availability==
 +
{{Availability|
 +
{{Availability/row| Retail | | GFWL, disc, key, activation  | {{DRM|SecuROM|7|SecuROM PA}}. Optional Steam unlock.<ref name="Steamworks"/> Russian retail has separate achievements. <br /> | Steam | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | bioshock-2 | Steam |  |  | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 1292-1 | Steam |  |  | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | bioshock_2_remastered | DRM-free | Bundled with [[BioShock 2 Remastered]] | | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GMG | bioshock-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Humble | bioshock-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Steam | 8850 | Steam | Bundled with [[BioShock 2 Remastered]] | | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Games for Windows Marketplace | GFWL | GFWL | <ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110521000340/http://www.gamesforwindows.com/en-US/Games/BioShock-2/|title=BioShock 2 - Games For Windows|date=2022-11-16}}</ref> | | Windows | unavailable }}
 +
}}
 +
{{ii}} All non-Steam/GOG Windows versions require {{DRM|GFWL|SSA=no|ZDPP=no|local=true}}
 +
{{++}} All Windows retail and digital versions of BioShock 2 activate on Steam.<ref name="Steamworks"/> Activation unlocks all DLC, including Minerva's Den, and [[BioShock 2 Remastered]].
 +
 
 +
{{DLC|
 +
{{DLC/row| The Protector Trials | Included in the Steam version. | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{DLC/row| Minerva's Den |  | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{DLC/row| Sinclair Solutions Tester Pack | Included in the Steam version. | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{DLC/row| Zigo & Blanche | Included in the Steam version. | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{DLC/row| Rapture Metro Pack | Included in the Steam version. | Windows, OS X }}
 +
{{DLC/row| Kill 'em Kindly | Released for free. | Windows, OS X }}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Essential improvements==
 +
===Patches===
 +
{{ii}} A Title Update is available for the [[Games for Windows - LIVE]] version. The game should automatically prompt for the update when using a LIVE profile; the updates can also be downloaded manually ([http://download.xbox.com/content/5454085c/tu10000083_10000183.cab update 1], [http://download.xbox.com/content/5454085c/tu10000083_10000483.cab update 2]).
 +
 
 +
===Fix audio balance issues===
 +
The latest patch (1.5.0.019) introduced some audio balance issues, most notably gun fire is much quieter as well as other sound effects. The sound effects can be restored by downloading a modified .ini file:
  
== Availability ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=Restore correct audio settings|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Availability Table|
+
# Download {{file|SoundMixStates.ini}} from [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=322637977 Fix Quiet Guns and Unbalanced Audio - Restoring the Retail Audio Mix].
{{Availability Table/row| 1=[https://store.2k.com/Product.aspx?pSKU=GAME-BIOSHOCK2&vSKU=2K-7-10425-31551-0 2K Games Store] | 2={{ID|Steam}} |3=}}
+
# Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}\SP\Content\System}} and place {{file|SoundMixStates.ini}} inside.
{{Availability Table/row| [http://store.steampowered.com/app/8850/ Steam] | {{ID|Steam}} | =}}
 
{{Availability Table/row| [http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00475AYUU Amazon.com] | {{ID|Amazon}} | Version does not activate on Steam}}
 
{{Availability Table/row| [http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0083VTNQA Amazon.com] | {{ID|Steam}} | }}
 
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} All versions have [[SecuROM]].
 
{{ii}} All versions have [[Games For Windows Live]], which [[#Disable Games For Windows Live (GFWL)|can be disabled]].
 
  
=== [[Games For Windows Live (GFWL)]] ===
+
===Skip intro videos===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use -nointro parameter|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable GFWL using Timeslip's bioshock2-xlive.7z}}
+
Use <code>-nointro</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]].
# Ensure you have the [[#v1.5 Patch|v1.5 Patch]].
 
# Download [http://timeslip.users.sourceforge.net/current/bioshock2-xlive.7z xlive.dll] from [http://timeslip.users.sourceforge.net/index.html Timeslip's site] (located on left under 'BioShock 2' heading, no hotlinking is allowed).
 
# Copy <code>xlive.dll</code> to Bioshock 2's install <code>dir\SP\Builds\Binaries\</code>
 
# Create a file called <code>xlive.ini</code> in <code>%USERPROFILE%\My Documents\bioshock2</code>.
 
# Edit the <code>xlive.ini</code> file.
 
# Type <code>[xlive]</code> on the first line. Options are added below that in an <code>option=value</code> format. The following options are available:<br><code>profile</code>: Pick the name of the offline profile to use.<br><code>loader</code>: Set value to 1.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Retail v1.5 Patch ===
+
===[https://www.moddb.com/games/bioshock/downloads/bioshock-tweaker2/bioshock-tweaker-111 BioShock Tweaker]===
{{ii}} The latest patch is [http://www.gamershell.com/download_74644.shtml v1.5]. The Steam version already has this patch.
+
{{++}} Allows you to change settings that are not normally adjustable from the options menu (i.e. custom resolution). Point the program at the game's configuration file location.
{{ii}} The patch accidentally mutes all the Little Sisters. This can be fixed (see [[#No Little Sister voice acting]]) but the fix requires an [[#Games For Windows Live (GFWL)]] account to be signed in. It may be advisable to avoid the patch because the interaction with the Little Sisters is a significant aspect of the gameplay.
+
 
 +
==Game data==
 +
{{Image|BioShock 2 General.png|In-game general settings.}}
  
== Game data ==
+
===Configuration file(s) location===
[[File:BioShock_2_Saved_Game_Utilities.png|290px|right|thumb|[http://www.petersouza.com/Software/BioShock2Utilities BioShock 2 Saved Game Utilities].]]
+
{{Game data|
{{Game Location Table|
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam}}
{{Game Location Table/row|Game Save Folder|%USERPROFILE%\My Documents\Bioshock2}}
+
{{Game data/config|OS X|}}
{{Game Location Table/row|Live Profile|%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\XLive}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} Because of [[GFWL]] you must back up both your Live profile and the game saves in order to transfer or restore your saves.
 
{{--}} Save games generated when signed into [[GFWL]] are not compatible with 'offline' mode, and vice versa.
 
{{++}} Use [http://www.petersouza.com/Software/BioShock2Utilities BioShock 2 Saved Game Utilities] to easily back up the save folders needed for BioShock 2.
 
  
== Video settings ==
+
===Save game data location===
{{Video settings
+
{{Game data|
|wsgf link                  = http://www.wsgf.org/dr/bioshock-2
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioshock2\SaveGames\|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam\{{P|uid}}.profile}}
 +
{{Game data/saves|OS X|}}
 +
}}
 +
{{ii}} Achievements and saves for the [[Steam]] and [[Games for Windows - LIVE]] versions are separate (a new game is required when switching versions).
 +
{{ii}} SP saves: {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioshock2\SaveGames}}
 +
{{ii}} MP saves: {{file|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam\{{P|uid}}.profile}}
 +
 
 +
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 +
{{Save game cloud syncing
 +
|discord                  =
 +
|discord notes            =
 +
|epic games launcher      =
 +
|epic games launcher notes =
 +
|gog galaxy                = true
 +
|gog galaxy notes          =
 +
|origin                    =
 +
|origin notes              =
 +
|steam cloud              = true
 +
|steam cloud notes        =
 +
|ubisoft connect          =
 +
|ubisoft connect notes    =
 +
|xbox cloud                =
 +
|xbox cloud notes          =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Video==
 +
{{Image|BioShock 2 Video.png|In-game video settings.}}
 +
{{Video
 +
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/bioshock-2
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = silver
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = silver
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = silver
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = silver
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete
+
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = silver
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
 
|widescreen resolution      = true
 
|widescreen resolution      = true
 
|widescreen resolution notes=  
 
|widescreen resolution notes=  
|multimonitor              = true
+
|multimonitor              = limited
|multimonitor notes        = Use [https://www.widescreenfixer.org Widescreen Fixer] with [http://www.wsgf.org/forums/viewtopic.php?p=148102#p148102 this plugin] to fix HUD scaling.
+
|multimonitor notes        = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer] with [https://3dsurroundgaming.com/WSF.html this plugin] to fix HUD scaling.
|ultrawidescreen            = unknown
+
|ultrawidescreen            = limited
|ultrawidescreen notes      =  
+
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] to fix the HUD.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.wsgf.org/dr/bioshock-2|title=BioShock 2|date=June 27, 2018}}</ref>
|4k ultra hd                = unknown
+
|4k ultra hd                = true
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov                        = hackable
|fov notes                  = See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]
+
|fov notes                  = See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]].
 
|windowed                  = true
 
|windowed                  = true
 
|windowed notes            =  
 
|windowed notes            =  
 
|borderless windowed        = false
 
|borderless windowed        = false
|borderless windowed notes  = Window will not resize correctly.<ref>Tested by [[User:Andytizer]] on April 23, 2013.</ref>
+
|borderless windowed notes  =  
 
|anisotropic                = hackable
 
|anisotropic                = hackable
 
|anisotropic notes          = See [[#Anisotropic filtering (AF)|Anisotropic filtering (AF)]].
 
|anisotropic notes          = See [[#Anisotropic filtering (AF)|Anisotropic filtering (AF)]].
 
|antialiasing              = hackable
 
|antialiasing              = hackable
 
|antialiasing notes        = See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
 
|antialiasing notes        = See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync notes                =  
 
|vsync notes                =  
 +
|60 fps                    = true
 +
|60 fps notes              =
 +
|120 fps                    = true
 +
|120 fps notes              = No frame rate or refresh rate cap.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20160913143805/http://120hz.net/showthread.php?3258-New-120Hz-Games-Report|title=New 120Hz Games Report|date=May 2023}}</ref> Physics simulation and many animations are locked to 30 FPS.
 +
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 +
|color blind                = limited
 +
|color blind notes          = Base game had color blind support issues with the hacking ui, a fix was bundled with the DLC, requiring owning the Protector Trials or Minerva's Den.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gamewatcher.com/news/2010-10-09-bioshock-2-dlc-secretly-fixes-hacking-mini-game-for-colour-blind|title=Game Watcher - BioShock 2 DLC "secretly" fixes hacking mini-game for colour-blind|date=May 2023}}</ref> Meaning the Steam and GOG versions come with them fixed.
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== [[Field of view (FOV)]] ===
+
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
{{--}} Any custom FOV settings will be reset automatically at various times during gameplay when control is taken away from the player; i.e. for cutscenes.  Zooming down iron sights will also yield this effect.
+
{{ii}} Custom FOV settings will not work in multiplayer.
{{Fixbox|1=
+
 
{{Fixbox/instructions|Bind FOV to key press}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=3rd party fixes|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
*Open file <code>%APPDATA%\Bioshock2\User.ini</code> using Notepad.
+
* Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer] with [https://3dsurroundgaming.com/WSF.html this plugin].
*Scroll down to the <code>[Default]</code> section and bind <code>SetFOV #</code> to any unused key (# being the desired FOV).
+
}}
*During the game, press the key you defined in <code>User.ini</code> to set the custom FOV.
+
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Bind FOV to key press|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
 +
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
 +
# Scroll down to the <code>[Default]</code> section and bind <code>SetFOV #</code> to any unused key (# being the desired FOV).
 +
# During the game, press the key you defined in {{file|User.ini}} to set the custom FOV.
 +
 
 +
'''Notes'''
 +
{{--}} Any custom FOV settings will be reset automatically at various times during gameplay when control is taken away from the player; i.e. for cutscenes. Zooming down iron sights will also yield this effect.
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== [[Anisotropic filtering (AF)]] ===
+
===[[Glossary:Anisotropic filtering (AF)|Anisotropic filtering (AF)]]===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Raise AF Above Default Value of 4X|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/instructions|Raise AF Above Default Value of 4X}}
+
# Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}\SP\Builds\Binaries\}}.
*Locate your game installation folder.
+
# Open {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}.
*Inside your installation folder, navigate to <code>\SP\Builds\Binaries\</code>.
+
# Edit the line <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=4</code> to <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=#</code> where # denotes the max level of AF supported by your graphics card(s). For example, change the line to read <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=16</code>.
*Open the file titled <code>Default.ini</code>.
 
*Find the line <code>LevelOfAnisotropy</code>.
 
*Edit the line <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=4</code> to <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=#</code> where # denotes the max level of AF supported by your graphics card(s). For example, change the line to read <code>LevelOfAnisotropy=16</code>.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== [[Anti-aliasing (AA)]] ===
+
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]===
There is no native AA support in BioShock 2.  AA can be forcibly enabled, however, through your graphics driver's control panel. Please consult the user guide for your particular graphics driver on how this is performed.
+
{{ii}} [[MSAA]] can be forced through your graphics driver's control panel.
 +
{{ii}} [[SGSSAA]] can be forced in DX9 mode via [[Nvidia Profile Inspector]] with the compatibility flag <code>0x000010C1</code><ref>http://www.forum-3dcenter.org/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=9254703&postcount=2348</ref>
  
== Input settings ==
+
===Ambient Occlusion (AO)===
{{Input Settings
+
{{ii}} AO can be forced through your graphics driver's control panel.
|key_remap                  =true
+
{{ii}} HDAO+ (denominated High quality) can be forced in DX9 mode via [[Nvidia Profile Inspector]] with the compatibility flag <code>0x0002002D</code><ref>https://forums.guru3d.com/showpost.php?p=4799483&postcount=271</ref>
|key_remap_notes            =
+
 
|acceleration_option       =true
+
==Input==
|acceleration_option_notes =
+
{{Image|BioShock 2 Controls.png|In-game control settings.}}
|controller_support         =hackable
+
{{Image|BioShock 2 Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}}
|controller_support_notes   =Need to use 3rd party software like [[Xpadder]].
+
{{Input
 +
|key remap                = true
 +
|key remap notes          = Mouse buttons 4 and 5 are not recognized by the multiplayer key binding menu, but can be manually bound in {{file|UserMP.ini}}.
 +
|acceleration option      = true
 +
|acceleration option notes =  
 +
|mouse sensitivity        = unknown
 +
|mouse sensitivity notes  =
 +
|mouse menu                = true
 +
|mouse menu notes          =
 +
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 +
|invert mouse y-axis notes =
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 +
|controller support        = true
 +
|controller support notes  =
 +
|full controller          = true
 +
|full controller notes    =
 +
|controller remap          = false
 +
|controller remap notes    =
 +
|controller sensitivity    = unknown
 +
|controller sensitivity notes=
 +
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 +
|invert controller y-axis notes=
 +
|xinput controllers       = true
 +
|xinput controllers notes =  
 +
|xbox prompts              = true
 +
|xbox prompts notes        =
 +
|impulse triggers          = false
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4              = true
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        =
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  =
 +
|light bar support        = unknown
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers         = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes   =  
 +
|other button prompts      = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=
 +
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 +
|controller hotplug notes  =
 +
|haptic feedback          = true
 +
|haptic feedback notes    =
 +
|simultaneous input        = true
 +
|simultaneous input notes  =
 +
|steam input api          = unknown
 +
|steam input api notes    =
 +
|steam hook input          = unknown
 +
|steam hook input notes    =
 +
|steam input presets      = unknown
 +
|steam input presets notes =
 +
|steam controller prompts  = unknown
 +
|steam controller prompts notes =
 +
|steam cursor detection    = unknown
 +
|steam cursor detection notes =
 
}}
 
}}
{{--}} There is no native controller support (Xbox 360 or otherwise) in this game.
 
  
=== Disabling auto-aim ===
+
===Hold to duck/aim down sights===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Hold to duck|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/instructions|Disabling auto-aim}}
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
*Locate your game installation folder.
+
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
*Inside your installation folder, navigate to <code>\SP\Builds\Binaries\</code>.
+
# Replace <code>Aliases[13]=(Command="Toggle bDuck{{!}}Axis aUp Speed=-1200.0",Alias=Duck)</code> with <code>Aliases[13]=(Command="Button bDuck",Alias=Duck)</code>.
*Open the file titled <code>Default.ini</code>.
 
*Find the line <code>AutoAim</code>.
 
*Edit the line <code>AutoAim=True</code> to <code>AutoAim=False</code>.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
== Audio settings ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=Hold to aim down sights|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Audio settings
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
|separate volume            =unknown
+
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
|separate volume notes      =
+
# Find the keybind that has the word "ZoomCycle" attached to it (T by default)
|surround sound              =unknown
+
# Replace <code>T=ZoomCycle</code> with <code>T=ZoomCycle {{!}} onRelease ZoomCycle</code>
|surround sound notes        =
 
|subtitles                  =unknown
 
|subtitles notes            =
 
|closed captions            =unknown
 
|closed captions notes      =
 
|mute on focus lost          =unknown
 
|mute on focus lost notes    =
 
|eax support                =
 
|eax support notes          =
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
== Issues fixed ==
+
===Disable auto-aim===
=== Hold to Duck / Hold to Aim Down Sights ===
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set AutoAim in Bioshock2SP.ini|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox|1=
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
{{Fixbox/fix|Hold to Duck}}
+
# Open {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}.
# Open User.ini file
+
# Edit the line <code>AutoAim=True</code> to <code>AutoAim=False</code>.
# Steam Location:
 
# Locate this line: "Aliases[13]=(Command="Toggle bDuck{{!}}Axis aUp Speed=-1200.0",Alias=Duck)"
 
# Replace with: "Aliases[13]=(Command="Button bDuck",Alias=Duck)".
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Disable Xbox 360 Controller vibration===
{{Fixbox/fix|Hold to Aim Down Sights}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set Vibration in Bioshock2SP.ini|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
# Open User.ini file
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
# Steam Location:  
+
# Open {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}.
# Find the keybind that has the word "ZoomCycle" attached to it (T by default)
+
# Edit the line <code>Vibration=True</code> to <code>Vibration=False</code>.
# Should look like this:
+
}}
## T=ZoomCycle
+
 
# Replace with this:
+
===Inject EVE Hypo===
## T=ZoomCycle {{!}} onRelease ZoomCycle
+
{{Fixbox|description=Inject EVE Hypo|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
 +
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
 +
# Scroll down to the <code>[Default]</code> section and bind <code>InjectBioAmmo</code> to any unused key.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Pick individual items from containers===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Pick individual items from containers|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
 +
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
 +
# Scroll down to the <code>[ContainerUIActive]</code> section and bind <code>CollectContainerItemInSlot 0</code>, <code>CollectContainerItemInSlot 1</code> and <code>CollectContainerItemInSlot 2</code> to any unused keys.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Audio==
 +
{{Image|BioShock 2 Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}}
 +
{{Audio
 +
|separate volume          = true
 +
|separate volume notes    =
 +
|surround sound          = true
 +
|surround sound notes    = Up to 7.1 output
 +
|subtitles                = true
 +
|subtitles notes          =
 +
|closed captions          = false
 +
|closed captions notes    =
 +
|mute on focus lost      = true
 +
|mute on focus lost notes =
 +
|eax support              =
 +
|eax support notes        =
 +
|royalty free audio        = unknown
 +
|royalty free audio notes  =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{L10n|content=
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = English
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = French
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Hungarian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = Fan translation, [https://magyaritasok.hu/magyaritasok/bioshock-2/bioshock-2/1146 download].
 +
|fan      = true
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Italian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Polish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Official localization by Cenega – retail only. Fan patch which corrects some issues of the original translation [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1419616494 here].
 +
|ref      = <ref name="Bioshock 2 Polish/Russian">[http://support.2k.com/hc/en-us/articles/201338163-BioShock-2-Steamworks-Update-Frequently-Asked-Questions Bioshock 2 Steamworks FAQ]</ref>
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|fan      = true
 +
|notes    = Fan translation, [https://tribogamer.com/traducoes/55_traducao-do-bioshock-2-para-portugues-do-brasil.html download].
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Russian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Retail only. Patch for digital release [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=596143481 here].
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Spanish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Network==
 +
{{ii}} Online features in non-Steam versions require a [https://live.xbox.com/Account/Signin Microsoft account] (optional for offline play).
 +
 
 +
{{Network/Multiplayer
 +
|local play          = hackable
 +
|local play players  = 10
 +
|local play modes    =
 +
|local play notes    = Use [https://github.com/SplitScreen-Me/splitscreenme-nucleus/releases Nucleus Co-op].
 +
|lan play            = unknown
 +
|lan play players    =
 +
|lan play modes      =
 +
|lan play notes      =
 +
|online play          = true
 +
|online play players  = 10
 +
|online play modes    =
 +
|online play notes    =
 +
|asynchronous        =
 +
|asynchronous notes  =
 +
}}{{Network/Connections
 +
|matchmaking        =
 +
|matchmaking notes  =
 +
|p2p                =
 +
|p2p notes          =
 +
|dedicated          =
 +
|dedicated notes    =
 +
|self-hosting      =
 +
|self-hosting notes =
 +
|direct ip          =
 +
|direct ip notes    =
 +
}}{{Network/Ports
 +
|tcp  =
 +
|udp  =
 +
|upnp =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==VR support==
 +
{{VR support
 +
|gg3d name                  = Bioshock 2
 +
|native 3d gg3d award        =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision gg3d award = bronze
 +
|tridef 3d gg3d award        = platinum
 +
|iz3d gg3d award            =
 +
|native 3d                  = unknown
 +
|native 3d notes            =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision            = hackable
 +
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = Use [https://helixmod.blogspot.com/2013/03/bioshock-2-by-mana84-see-stereo-3d-on.html Helix Mod: Bioshock 2] (DirectX 9 only)
 +
|tridef 3d                  = true
 +
|tridef 3d notes            =
 +
|iz3d                        = unknown
 +
|iz3d notes                  =
 +
|vorpx                      = true
 +
|vorpx modes                = G3D,DirectVR
 +
|vorpx notes                = Officially supported game, see [https://www.vorpx.com/supported-games/ official vorpx game list].
 +
|htc vive                    =
 +
|htc vive notes              =
 +
|oculus rift                =
 +
|oculus rift notes          =
 +
|osvr                        =
 +
|osvr notes                  =
 +
|keyboard-mouse              =
 +
|keyboard-mouse notes        =
 +
|3rd space gaming vest      = true
 +
|3rd space gaming vest notes =
 +
|novint falcon              =
 +
|novint falcon notes        =
 +
|trackir                    =
 +
|trackir notes              =
 +
|tobii eye tracking          =
 +
|tobii eye tracking notes    =
 +
|play area seated            =
 +
|play area seated notes      =
 +
|play area standing          =
 +
|play area standing notes    =
 +
|play area room-scale        =
 +
|play area room-scale notes  =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Issues unresolved==
 +
===Mouse sensitivity not correctly adjusting===
 +
{{ii}} On some computers, the game's mouse sensitivity will be extremely low, and raising the values makes mouse movements imprecise.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Possible mouse acceleration fix (doesn't work for everybody)|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://forums.2k.com/showthread.php?56876-PC-Tweaks-lower-mouse-sens-toggle-duck-and-zoom-aim|title=PC Tweaks: lower mouse sens, toggle duck and zoom/aim - 2K Forums|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Set in-game sensitivity to "1"
 +
# Disable mouse acceleration in-game.
 +
# Quit the game.
 +
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
 +
# Open {{file|User.ini}}.
 +
# Bulk replace every <code>Speed=2000.0</code> with whatever your desired sensitivity value is (300 is a good starting point)
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Menu flickering ===
+
==Issues fixed==
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Crash on startup===
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable v-sync}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Delete damaged save files|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
Disable v-sync from the in-game settings menu.
+
# Go to {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioshock2\SaveGames\}}.
 +
# Copy the save files somewhere as a backup.
 +
# Sort the folder by "Date modified".
 +
# Delete the damaged save file causing the game to crash on startup (this will probably be the newest save and/or quicksave).
 
}}
 
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Game crashes randomly===
{{Fixbox/fix|Force v-sync}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set "Graphics Quality" to low|ref=<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/8850/discussions/0/3032600513506459008/ PSA: PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM CRASHES, TRY THIS FIX! - Steam Users' Forums] (retrieved)</ref>|fix=
Force v-sync through graphics adaptor.
+
# Go to Graphics settings in-game.
 +
# Set Graphics Quality to Low preset.
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Crash on startup ===
+
===Menu flickering===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Disable or force vsync|ref={{cn|date=September 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Change read/write permissions of save files}}
+
{{ii}} Disable Vsync from the in-game settings menu.
* Backup the <code>Bioshock 2</code> folder from your <code>My Documents</code> folder.
+
{{ii}} Force Vsync through graphics adaptor.
* Delete the original <code>Bioshock 2</code> folder.
 
* Launch BioShock 2 and begin a new game.
 
* Save your game and exit BioShock 2.
 
* In <code>My Documents</code> right-click on the new <code>Bioshock 2</code> folder that was created and select <code>Properties</code>.
 
* Disable the <code>Read-Only</code> checkbox and click OK.
 
* Move any backed-up save files back into the new <code>Bioshock 2</code> folder under <code>\Bioshock 2\SaveGames\</code>.
 
* Ensure that any file moved back into the new folder also has the <code>Read-Only</code> checkbox disabled.
 
* Run the game and allow GFWL to update your profile before any further action is taken.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Left Plasmid hand disappears ===
+
===Game brightness is extremely high in DirectX 9 mode===
{{ii}} This glitch is especially likely when using the Scout-Plasmid. Therefore it is advisable to quicksave '''before''' using it.
+
{{ii}} This behavior is triggered by notification popups from the Steam overlay
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Steam Overlay|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Respawn}}
+
# Right click on Bioshock 2 in your Steam library and select Properties
# Make sure Vita-Chambers are enabled.
+
# Uncheck "Enable Steam Community In-Game"
# Being killed and respawning should fix the left hand.
+
}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Editing launch options|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
Use the <code>-nogamma</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]].
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Green Pepper Edition - no product key ===
+
===Audio Cutting Out in Combat Sequences===
{{--}} The Green Pepper Edition of Bioshock 2 does '''not''' contain a product key. Therefore it is not possible to create a Windows Live Account or add Bioshock 2 to an existing account.  
+
{{ii}} On some computers, user audio will cut out during combat sequences.  
 +
{{ii}} Issue can be lessened slightly by not using constant-fire weapons such as lasers / hacked sentry bots, or increasing max sound channels in BioShock2SP.ini and Default.ini
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Edit the maximum number of channels|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=284464205|title=Steam Community Guide - Fix audio cutting out|date=2017-02-12}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Create a local profile}}
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
# [[Games for Windows Live#Create a local profile|Create a local profile]].
+
# Open {{file|bioshock2SP.ini}}.
# You can now save in singleplayer but multiplayer and DLC are still unavailable.
+
# Find the following line, under [FMODAudio.FMODAudioSubsystem], and increase the number of channels.
 +
<pre>
 +
MaxChannels=128
 +
</pre>
 
}}
 
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Left Plasmid hand disappears===
{{Fixbox/fix|Contact Green Pepper}}
+
{{ii}} This glitch is especially likely when using the Scout-Plasmid.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20141205122702/http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2037219 Frequent Loss of Plasmid Hand - Steam Users' Forums] (retrieved)</ref> Therefore, it is advisable to quick save '''before''' using it.
Contact the Green Pepper Customer Hotline and insist that you rightfully deserve a product key.
+
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Respawn|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Make sure Vita-Chambers are enabled.
 +
# Being killed and respawning should fix the left hand.
 
}}
 
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Game cannot load or save===
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable GFWL}}
+
{{ii}} There are damaged save files bugging up the game's ability to load or save
Refer to [[#Disable_GFWL_using_Timeslip.27s_bioshock2-xlive.7z|Timeslip's bioshock2-xlive.7z xlive.dll fix]].
+
{{Fixbox|description=Delete damaged save files|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioshock2\SaveGames\}}.
 +
# Copy the save files somewhere as a backup.
 +
# Sort the folder by "Date modified".
 +
# Delete the damaged save file causing the game to crash on startup (this will probably be the newest save and/or quicksave).
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Game does not start on Windows 8 ===
+
===Game crashes in DirectX 10 mode===
{{--}} When installed on Windows 8 Pro x64, trying to run the game doesn't do anything. This is mostly like an issue with GFWL.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Increase Texture Streaming Memory Size|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/8850/discussions/0/540741859213676880/|title=Steam Community|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{ii}} This increases the size of the texture cache.
{{Fixbox/fix|Reinstall GFWL under Windows 7 compatibility mode}}
+
# Open {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}. Steam users will find this in {{folder|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam}}.
# Uninstall '''Microsoft Games for Windows  - LIVE Redistributable''', '''Microsoft Games for Windows - LIVE''' and '''Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace'''.
+
# Find "TextureStreamingMemoryLimit=512.000000" and increase the amount to something inline with the video card (e.g. 2048).
# Download the GFWL installer from [http://www.xbox.com/en-US/LIVE/PC/DownloadClient here].
 
# Right click the above installer, choose Properties and go to the Compatibility tab. Here, check the "Run this program in compatibility mode" box and change its mode to "Windows 7". Also, check the "Run this program as an administrator" box. Save and exit.
 
# Run the installer. After it finishes, try running the game again.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== Crashing Windows 7 and 8 ===
+
{{Fixbox|description=Force the game to run in DirectX 9 mode|ref={{cn|date=September 2016}}|fix=
{{--}} The game will periodically crash when installed on Windows 7 or 8.
 
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Activate DirectX 9 mode}}
 
 
{{ii}} This switches the game to DirectX 9 instead of the default DirectX 10.
 
{{ii}} This switches the game to DirectX 9 instead of the default DirectX 10.
# Create a shortcut to <code>Bioshock2Launcher.exe</code> somewhere convenient.  
+
# Create a shortcut to {{file|Bioshock2Launcher.exe}} somewhere convenient.  
# Right click this shortcut, select Properties and add <code>-dx9</code> in the target box after the quotation mark.  
+
# Right click this shortcut, select Properties, in the Target box add <code>-dx9</code> in the text field after inserting space after the quotation mark.  
 
# Now launching the game from this shortcut will force the game to run in DirectX 9.
 
# Now launching the game from this shortcut will force the game to run in DirectX 9.
 +
 +
'''Notes'''
 +
{{ii}} Running the game in DirectX 9 mode can mess with the brightness levels of the system, even after exiting the game. To fix this, simply remove the <code>-dx9</code> switch, then run and exit the game again.
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== No Little Sister voice acting ===
+
{{Fixbox|description=Uninstall update KB2670838|ref=<ref>https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=411190623</ref>{{cn|reason=This update is required for some newer games, so this is the wrong solution. SuicideMachine: What games? (yes this update often causes BSODs) - https://www.google.pl/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&es_th=1&ie=UTF-8#q=KB2670838+bsods&es_th=1|date=September 2015}}|fix=
{{--}} May occur after installing 1.5 Patch, which causes Little Sisters to become mute.
+
{{ii}} This will uninstall Internet Explorer!
 +
{{ii}} Tested on Windows 7
 +
# Open the start menu
 +
# Go to control panel
 +
# Under "Programs" click "Uninstall a program"
 +
# On the top left "View installed updates"
 +
# After all the updates are displayed, simply search for KB2670838.
 +
# Uninstall it
 +
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===No Little Sister voice acting===
{{Fixbox/fix|Download Protector Trials DLC}}
+
{{--}} Bug causes Little Sisters to become mute.
# Download the "Protector Trials" DLC from GFWL (it's free but requires an online GFWL-account).
 
# Once downloaded and installed just load the single player the Little Sister voices will be working.
 
}}
 
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set sound quality of standard sound device|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Set sound quality of standard sound device}}
 
 
# Start > type "sound" > open the soundpanel.
 
# Start > type "sound" > open the soundpanel.
 
# Right-click on your common sound device > go to the tab "advanced" > set sound quality to lowest (CD quality).
 
# Right-click on your common sound device > go to the tab "advanced" > set sound quality to lowest (CD quality).
Line 260: Line 604:
 
}}
 
}}
  
=== [[SecuROM]] ===
+
==Other information==
{{ii}} Error message: Too many activations on different PCs or too many reactivations on the same PC have been performed
+
===API===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{API
{{Fixbox/fix|Revoke activations using bioshock2revoke.zip|ref=<ref>https://support.securom.com/pop_bioshock2.html</ref>}}
+
|direct3d versions      = 9.0c, 10
Use [http://download.securom.com/support/bioshock2/bioshock2revoke.zip bioshock2revoke.zip] to revoke activation.
+
|direct3d notes        =
 +
|directdraw versions    =
 +
|directdraw notes      =
 +
|opengl versions        = 2.0
 +
|opengl notes          = OS X only.
 +
|glide versions        =
 +
|glide notes            =
 +
|software mode          =
 +
|software mode notes    =  
 +
|mantle support        =
 +
|mantle support notes  =
 +
|vulkan versions        =
 +
|vulkan notes          =
 +
|dos modes              =
 +
|dos modes notes        =
 +
|shader model versions  = 3, 4
 +
|shader model notes    =
 +
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 +
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app = unknown
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = true
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        = {{CN|date=August 2015}}
 +
|linux 32-bit executable= unknown
 +
|linux 64-bit executable= unknown
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Performance tweaks==
+
===Middleware===
===Havok===
+
{{Middleware
{{Fixbox|1=
+
|physics          = Havok
{{Fixbox/fix|Improving Havok physics engine performance}}
+
|physics notes    =  
*Locate your game installation folder.
+
|audio            = FMOD
*Inside your installation folder, navigate to <code>\SP\Builds\Binaries\</code>.
+
|audio notes      =
*Open the file titled <code>Default.ini</code>.
+
|interface        =  
*Find the line <code>HavokNumThreads</code>.
+
|interface notes  =  
*Edit the line <code>HavokNumThreads=2</code> to represent the number of cores in your machine's CPU.  For example, using a quad-core CPU, change the line to <code>HavokNumThreads=4</code>.
+
|input            =
 +
|input notes      =
 +
|cutscenes        = Bink Video, Flash
 +
|cutscenes notes  =
 +
|multiplayer      = Games for Windows - LIVE, Steamworks
 +
|multiplayer notes=  
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Mods===
 +
A collection of mods are available at [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=9045.0 this thread].
 +
 +
===Performance tweak (Havok)===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Improving Havok physics engine performance|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}\SP\Builds\Binaries\}}.
 +
# Open {{file|Default.ini}}.
 +
# Edit the line <code>HavokNumThreads=2</code> to represent the number of cores in your machine's CPU. For example, using a quad-core CPU, change the line to <code>HavokNumThreads=4</code>.
 +
# Some systems may require doing the same with {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}, located in {{folder|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam\}}.
 +
{{ii}} Using all cores may result in crashing to desktop on some systems. In this case, use only half of your core count.
 +
}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Improving Engine Memory usage|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to {{folder|{{p|appdata}}\Bioshock2Steam\}}.
 +
# Open {{file|Bioshock2SP.ini}}.
 +
# Search for <code>[Engine.GameEngine]</code> and increase the <code>CacheSizeMegs</code> value under it (maxes out at 512).
 +
# Search for the line <code> TextureStreamingMemoryLimit</code>, change this to match your graphics card's VRAM e.g. 2048 for 2 GB
 +
# Also change <code> TextureStreamingDistanceLimit</code> to 10000
 +
}}
 +
 +
===Bypass Games for Windows - LIVE===
 +
{{ii}} A fake version of {{file|xlive.dll}} can allow you to play the single-player without having [[Games for Windows - LIVE|GFWL]] installed.
 +
{{--}} Pre-existing saved games are not compatible with this fix.
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use BioShock 2 fake xlive|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://timeslip.users.sourceforge.net/|title=Timeslip's utilities, mods and patches|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download [http://timeslip.users.sourceforge.net/ BioShock 2 fake xlive].
 +
# Extract {{file|xlive.dll}} to {{folder|{{p|game}}\SP\Builds\Binaries\}}.
 +
}}
 +
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
 
{{System requirements
 
{{System requirements
 
|OSfamily = Windows
 
|OSfamily = Windows
  
|minOS    = Windows XP SP2
+
|minOS    = XP SP2
|minproc = AMD Athlon 64 3800+ 2.4 GHz<br />Intel Pentium 4 530 3.0 GHz
+
|minCPU  = Intel Pentium 4 530 3.0 GHz
|minmem   = 2 GB
+
|minCPU2 = AMD Athlon 64 3800+ 2.4 GHz
 +
|minRAM   = 2 GB
 
|minHD    = 11 GB
 
|minHD    = 11 GB
|minGPU  = NVIDIA 7800GT 256 MB<br />ATI Radeon X1900 256 MB
+
|minGPU  = Nvidia GeForce 7800 GT
 +
|minGPU2  = ATI Radeon X1900
 +
|minVRAM  = 256 MB
 +
|minDX    = 9.0c
 +
|minaudio = DirectX 9.0c compatible
 +
 
 +
|recOS    = Vista, 7
 +
|recCPU  = Intel Core 2 Duo E6420 2.13 GHz
 +
|recCPU2  = AMD Athlon 64 X2 5200+ 2.6 GHz
 +
|recRAM  = 3 GB
 +
|recGPU  = Nvidia GeForce 8800 GT
 +
|recGPU2  = ATI Radeon HD 4830
 +
|recVRAM  = 512 MB
 +
|recDX    = 10
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{System requirements
 +
|OSfamily = OS X
 +
 
 +
|minOS    = 10.9.5 (Mavericks)
 +
|minCPU  = 2 GHz
 +
|minRAM  = 4 GB
 +
|minVRAM  = 256 MB
 +
|minHD    = 18 GB
  
|recOS    = Windows 7
+
|recOS    = 10.10.5 (Yosemite)
|recproc  = AMD Athlon 64 X2 5200+ 2.60 GHz<br />Intel Core 2 Duo E6420 2.13 GHz
+
|recCPU  = 2.4 GHz
|recmem   = 3 GB
+
|recRAM   =  
|recGPU  = NVIDIA 8800GT 512 MB<br />ATI Radeon HD 4830 512 MB
+
|recVRAM  = 512 MB
 +
|recHD    =
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}
 
[[Category:Windows]]
 
[[Category:OS X]]
 

Latest revision as of 00:37, 28 May 2023

This page is for the original version. For the remastered version, see BioShock 2 Remastered.

BioShock 2
BioShock 2 cover
Developers
2K Marin
2K China
2K Australia
DLC (PC porting) Iron Galaxy Studios
Multiplayer Digital Extremes
macOS (OS X) Feral Interactive
macOS (OS X) Open Planet Software[1]
Publishers
2K Games
OS X Feral Interactive
Engines
Unreal Engine 2.5
Release dates
Windows February 9, 2010
macOS (OS X) March 29, 2012
Reception
Metacritic 88
IGDB 87
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase, DLC
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Immersive sim, RPG, Shooter
Art styles Realistic, Stylized
Themes Sci-fi, Steampunk
Series BioShock
BioShock 2 on HowLongToBeat
BioShock 2 on IGDB
BioShock 2 guide on StrategyWiki
BioShock 2 on MobyGames
BioShock 2 on Wikipedia
BioShock
BioShock 2007
BioShock 2 2010
BioShock Infinite 2013
BioShock Remastered 2016
BioShock 2 Remastered 2016

Warnings

For Games for Windows - LIVE on Windows 8 or later, install the latest Games for Windows - LIVE software.

BioShock 2 is a singleplayer and multiplayer first-person immersive sim, RPG and shooter game in the BioShock series.

Steam version DRM switched from Games for Windows - LIVE and SecuROM to Steam.[2] The Steamworks patch introduced some audio level balance issues.[3]

Ragdoll physics and animations are locked at 30 FPS.

General information

2K Games Forum
GOG.com Community Discussions for game series
GOG.com Support Page
Steam Community Discussions

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Icon overlay.png
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
CD key
Requires online activation
SecuROM 7 and SecuROM PA DRM. Optional Steam unlock.[2] Russian retail has separate achievements.
Icon overlay.png
Windows
GamersGate
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Gamesplanet logo.svg
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
GOG.com
DRM-free
Bundled with BioShock 2 Remastered
Windows
Green Man Gaming
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Humble Store
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Steam
Icon overlay.png
Bundled with BioShock 2 Remastered
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Games for Windows Marketplace (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
[4]
Windows
All non-Steam/GOG Windows versions require Games for Windows - LIVE DRM.[Note 1]
All Windows retail and digital versions of BioShock 2 activate on Steam.[2] Activation unlocks all DLC, including Minerva's Den, and BioShock 2 Remastered.

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
The Protector Trials Included in the Steam version.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Minerva's Den
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Sinclair Solutions Tester Pack Included in the Steam version.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Zigo & Blanche Included in the Steam version.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Rapture Metro Pack Included in the Steam version.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Kill 'em Kindly Released for free.
Windows
macOS (OS X)

Essential improvements

Patches

A Title Update is available for the Games for Windows - LIVE version. The game should automatically prompt for the update when using a LIVE profile; the updates can also be downloaded manually (update 1, update 2).

Fix audio balance issues

The latest patch (1.5.0.019) introduced some audio balance issues, most notably gun fire is much quieter as well as other sound effects. The sound effects can be restored by downloading a modified .ini file:

Restore correct audio settings[citation needed]
  1. Download SoundMixStates.ini from Fix Quiet Guns and Unbalanced Audio - Restoring the Retail Audio Mix.
  2. Go to <path-to-game>\SP\Content\System and place SoundMixStates.ini inside.

Skip intro videos

Use -nointro parameter[citation needed]

Use -nointro command line argument.

BioShock Tweaker

Allows you to change settings that are not normally adjustable from the options menu (i.e. custom resolution). Point the program at the game's configuration file location.

Game data

In-game general settings.
In-game general settings.

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows %APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam
macOS (OS X)
Steam Play (Linux) <Steam-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/8850/pfx/[Note 2]

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioshock2\SaveGames\
%APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam\<user-id>.profile
macOS (OS X)
Steam Play (Linux) <Steam-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/8850/pfx/[Note 2]
Achievements and saves for the Steam and Games for Windows - LIVE versions are separate (a new game is required when switching versions).
SP saves: %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioshock2\SaveGames
MP saves: %APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam\<user-id>.profile

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
GOG Galaxy
OneDrive
Requires enabling backup of the Documents folder in OneDrive on all computers.
Steam Cloud

Video

In-game video settings.
In-game video settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
Multi-monitor
Use Flawless Widescreen or Widescreen Fixer with this plugin to fix HUD scaling.
Ultra-widescreen
Use Flawless Widescreen to fix the HUD.[5]
4K Ultra HD
Field of view (FOV)
See Field of view (FOV).
Windowed
Borderless fullscreen windowed
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
See Anisotropic filtering (AF).
Anti-aliasing (AA)
See Anti-aliasing (AA).
Vertical sync (Vsync)
60 FPS and 120+ FPS
No frame rate or refresh rate cap.[6] Physics simulation and many animations are locked to 30 FPS.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.
Color blind mode
Base game had color blind support issues with the hacking ui, a fix was bundled with the DLC, requiring owning the Protector Trials or Minerva's Den.[7] Meaning the Steam and GOG versions come with them fixed.

Field of view (FOV)

Custom FOV settings will not work in multiplayer.
3rd party fixes[citation needed]
Bind FOV to key press[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open User.ini.
  3. Scroll down to the [Default] section and bind SetFOV # to any unused key (# being the desired FOV).
  4. During the game, press the key you defined in User.ini to set the custom FOV.

Notes

Any custom FOV settings will be reset automatically at various times during gameplay when control is taken away from the player; i.e. for cutscenes. Zooming down iron sights will also yield this effect.

Anisotropic filtering (AF)

Raise AF Above Default Value of 4X[citation needed]
  1. Go to <path-to-game>\SP\Builds\Binaries\.
  2. Open Bioshock2SP.ini.
  3. Edit the line LevelOfAnisotropy=4 to LevelOfAnisotropy=# where # denotes the max level of AF supported by your graphics card(s). For example, change the line to read LevelOfAnisotropy=16.

Anti-aliasing (AA)

MSAA can be forced through your graphics driver's control panel.
SGSSAA can be forced in DX9 mode via Nvidia Profile Inspector with the compatibility flag 0x000010C1[8]

Ambient Occlusion (AO)

AO can be forced through your graphics driver's control panel.
HDAO+ (denominated High quality) can be forced in DX9 mode via Nvidia Profile Inspector with the compatibility flag 0x0002002D[9]

Input

In-game control settings.
In-game control settings.
In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.

Hold to duck/aim down sights

Hold to duck[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open User.ini.
  3. Replace Aliases[13]=(Command="Toggle bDuck|Axis aUp Speed=-1200.0",Alias=Duck) with Aliases[13]=(Command="Button bDuck",Alias=Duck).
Hold to aim down sights[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open User.ini.
  3. Find the keybind that has the word "ZoomCycle" attached to it (T by default)
  4. Replace T=ZoomCycle with T=ZoomCycle | onRelease ZoomCycle

Disable auto-aim

Set AutoAim in Bioshock2SP.ini[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open Bioshock2SP.ini.
  3. Edit the line AutoAim=True to AutoAim=False.

Disable Xbox 360 Controller vibration

Set Vibration in Bioshock2SP.ini[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open Bioshock2SP.ini.
  3. Edit the line Vibration=True to Vibration=False.

Inject EVE Hypo

Inject EVE Hypo[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open User.ini.
  3. Scroll down to the [Default] section and bind InjectBioAmmo to any unused key.

Pick individual items from containers

Pick individual items from containers[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open User.ini.
  3. Scroll down to the [ContainerUIActive] section and bind CollectContainerItemInSlot 0, CollectContainerItemInSlot 1 and CollectContainerItemInSlot 2 to any unused keys.

Audio

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Up to 7.1 output
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
French
German
Hungarian
Fan translation, download.
Italian
Polish
Official localization by Cenega – retail only. Fan patch which corrects some issues of the original translation here.[10]
Brazilian Portuguese
Fan translation, download.
Russian
Retail only. Patch for digital release here.
Spanish

Network

Online features in non-Steam versions require a Microsoft account (optional for offline play).

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
Local play
10 Use Nucleus Co-op.
LAN play
Online play
10

VR support

3D modes State GG3D Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
Use Helix Mod: Bioshock 2 (DirectX 9 only)
TriDef 3D
vorpX
G3D, DirectVR
Officially supported game, see official vorpx game list.
Devices
3RD Space Gaming Vest

Issues unresolved

Mouse sensitivity not correctly adjusting

On some computers, the game's mouse sensitivity will be extremely low, and raising the values makes mouse movements imprecise.
Possible mouse acceleration fix (doesn't work for everybody)[11]
  1. Set in-game sensitivity to "1"
  2. Disable mouse acceleration in-game.
  3. Quit the game.
  4. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  5. Open User.ini.
  6. Bulk replace every Speed=2000.0 with whatever your desired sensitivity value is (300 is a good starting point)

Issues fixed

Crash on startup

Delete damaged save files[citation needed]
  1. Go to %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioshock2\SaveGames\.
  2. Copy the save files somewhere as a backup.
  3. Sort the folder by "Date modified".
  4. Delete the damaged save file causing the game to crash on startup (this will probably be the newest save and/or quicksave).

Game crashes randomly

Set "Graphics Quality" to low[12]
  1. Go to Graphics settings in-game.
  2. Set Graphics Quality to Low preset.

Menu flickering

Disable or force vsync[citation needed]
Disable Vsync from the in-game settings menu.
Force Vsync through graphics adaptor.

Game brightness is extremely high in DirectX 9 mode

This behavior is triggered by notification popups from the Steam overlay
Disable Steam Overlay[citation needed]
  1. Right click on Bioshock 2 in your Steam library and select Properties
  2. Uncheck "Enable Steam Community In-Game"
Editing launch options[citation needed]

Use the -nogamma command line argument.

Audio Cutting Out in Combat Sequences

On some computers, user audio will cut out during combat sequences.
Issue can be lessened slightly by not using constant-fire weapons such as lasers / hacked sentry bots, or increasing max sound channels in BioShock2SP.ini and Default.ini
Edit the maximum number of channels[13]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open bioshock2SP.ini.
  3. Find the following line, under [FMODAudio.FMODAudioSubsystem], and increase the number of channels.
MaxChannels=128

Left Plasmid hand disappears

This glitch is especially likely when using the Scout-Plasmid.[14] Therefore, it is advisable to quick save before using it.
Respawn[citation needed]
  1. Make sure Vita-Chambers are enabled.
  2. Being killed and respawning should fix the left hand.

Game cannot load or save

There are damaged save files bugging up the game's ability to load or save
Delete damaged save files[citation needed]
  1. Go to %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioshock2\SaveGames\.
  2. Copy the save files somewhere as a backup.
  3. Sort the folder by "Date modified".
  4. Delete the damaged save file causing the game to crash on startup (this will probably be the newest save and/or quicksave).

Game crashes in DirectX 10 mode

Increase Texture Streaming Memory Size[15]
This increases the size of the texture cache.
  1. Open Bioshock2SP.ini. Steam users will find this in %APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam.
  2. Find "TextureStreamingMemoryLimit=512.000000" and increase the amount to something inline with the video card (e.g. 2048).
Force the game to run in DirectX 9 mode[citation needed]
This switches the game to DirectX 9 instead of the default DirectX 10.
  1. Create a shortcut to Bioshock2Launcher.exe somewhere convenient.
  2. Right click this shortcut, select Properties, in the Target box add -dx9 in the text field after inserting space after the quotation mark.
  3. Now launching the game from this shortcut will force the game to run in DirectX 9.

Notes

Running the game in DirectX 9 mode can mess with the brightness levels of the system, even after exiting the game. To fix this, simply remove the -dx9 switch, then run and exit the game again.
Uninstall update KB2670838[16][citation needed]
This will uninstall Internet Explorer!
Tested on Windows 7
  1. Open the start menu
  2. Go to control panel
  3. Under "Programs" click "Uninstall a program"
  4. On the top left "View installed updates"
  5. After all the updates are displayed, simply search for KB2670838.
  6. Uninstall it

No Little Sister voice acting

Bug causes Little Sisters to become mute.
Set sound quality of standard sound device[citation needed]
  1. Start > type "sound" > open the soundpanel.
  2. Right-click on your common sound device > go to the tab "advanced" > set sound quality to lowest (CD quality).
  3. After you made your changes, click OK.

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9.0c, 10
OpenGL 2.0 OS X only.
Shader Model support 3, 4
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
macOS (OS X)
[citation needed]

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Physics Havok
Audio FMOD
Cutscenes Bink Video, Flash
Multiplayer Games for Windows - LIVE, Steamworks

Mods

A collection of mods are available at this thread.

Performance tweak (Havok)

Improving Havok physics engine performance[citation needed]
  1. Go to <path-to-game>\SP\Builds\Binaries\.
  2. Open Default.ini.
  3. Edit the line HavokNumThreads=2 to represent the number of cores in your machine's CPU. For example, using a quad-core CPU, change the line to HavokNumThreads=4.
  4. Some systems may require doing the same with Bioshock2SP.ini, located in %APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam\.
Using all cores may result in crashing to desktop on some systems. In this case, use only half of your core count.
Improving Engine Memory usage[citation needed]
  1. Go to %APPDATA%\Bioshock2Steam\.
  2. Open Bioshock2SP.ini.
  3. Search for [Engine.GameEngine] and increase the CacheSizeMegs value under it (maxes out at 512).
  4. Search for the line TextureStreamingMemoryLimit, change this to match your graphics card's VRAM e.g. 2048 for 2 GB
  5. Also change TextureStreamingDistanceLimit to 10000

Bypass Games for Windows - LIVE

A fake version of xlive.dll can allow you to play the single-player without having GFWL installed.
Pre-existing saved games are not compatible with this fix.
Use BioShock 2 fake xlive[17]
  1. Download BioShock 2 fake xlive.
  2. Extract xlive.dll to <path-to-game>\SP\Builds\Binaries\.

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) XP SP2
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium 4 530 3.0 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 3800+ 2.4 GHz
System memory (RAM) 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 11 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 7800 GT
ATI Radeon X1900
256 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9.0c compatible
Sound (audio device) DirectX 9.0c compatible
macOS (OS X)
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 10.9.5 (Mavericks)
Processor (CPU) 2 GHz
System memory (RAM) 4 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 18 GB
Video card (GPU) 256 MB of VRAM


Notes

  1. Games for Windows - LIVE DRM features: Legacy activation, supports local profiles.
  2. 2.0 2.1 File/folder structure within this directory reflects the path(s) listed for Windows and/or Steam game data (use Wine regedit to access Windows registry paths). Games with Steam Cloud support may store data in ~/.steam/steam/userdata/<user-id>/8850/ in addition to or instead of this directory. The app ID (8850) may differ in some cases. Treat backslashes as forward slashes. See the glossary page for details.

References