Bioshock Environment and Character concept art

During the early days of Bioshock, the art team ventured in many different directions. Plenty of ideas did not work but certain sketches would develop into entire levels. There was always a story to tell and that was what this game was all about.
Most of these drawings were made using traditional methods while others used a 3d base to speed the process. The colors got duller, but the art deco and the presence of water became a huge signature to the art style. The illustration of the derailed train cart was the beginning of the look we were going for. Elements of destruction, views of the ocean, art deco structure, the spot lighting , warm verses cold became the pillars to our story of Rapture.