Revamped BioShock with RTX delivers superior visuals beyond anticipated expectations
BioShock RTX Remix Brings Modern Graphics to Classic Game
In an exciting development for fans of the original BioShock game, released in 2007, a two-person team has created a fan-made mod called the BioShock RTX Remix. This mod uses NVIDIA's RTX Remix tools to enhance the visuals of the game with real-time ray tracing (RTX) technology, upgraded lighting, and physically based rendering (PBR) materials.
The mod, developed by Skurtyyskirts (art/assets) and Watbulb (programming/reverse engineering), was created for the NVIDIA RTX Remix competition. A free demo version (v0.1a) of the remix was released on July 18, 2025, and is currently available for download on Moddb.com.
Unlike official remasters or remakes, the BioShock RTX Remix rebuilds the game's art and rendering from the ground up to utilize modern GPU path tracing capabilities. This is achieved through a custom-built middleware, a hybrid rendering wrapper, which resolves engine compatibility issues. The mod offers a visually stunning, more stable, and performant experience, featuring advanced effects like real-time path tracing across the original game's environments up to the Floodlight Theatre area.
As of August 2025, the BioShock RTX Remix is the closest experience to a "BioShock RTX" that players can try. However, it's important to note that this is a competition mod project rather than an official game update, so there's no official release date for a full version of the remix. The winners of the NVIDIA RTX Remix competition are due to be announced on August 18, 2025.
Meanwhile, official BioShock remake projects, including BioShock 1 remake and BioShock 4, have faced setbacks and cancellations earlier in 2025. The developers of the BioShock RTX Remix have rebuilt the game's art deco world from the ground up and resolved engine issues to improve stability, performance, and visuals. Despite a few bugs, the developers hope others will use the compatibility mod to build on their work.
BioShock is a landmark game for its blend of first-person shooter and role-playing elements, immersive world-building, and complex narrative. Set in the fictional underwater city The Rapture, the game explores philosophical and moral themes such as the dangers of unchecked power and the consequences of ideological extremism. The original BioShock Remastered was released in 2016.
- Skurtyyskirts and Watbulb have showcased their creative flair in the development of the BioShock RTX Remix, which introduces modern graphic design to the classic game.
- The BioShock RTX Remix takes advantage of cutting-edge technology, such as real-time ray tracing, upgraded lighting, and physically based rendering, to elevate the game's visuals.
- The team's hard work resulted in a complete rebuild of the game's art and rendering, making use of modern GPU path tracing capabilities.
- With advanced UI and UX improvements, the BioShock RTX Remix provides an immersive experience, featuring realistic color palettes and effective layout designs.
- The remix also incorporates 3D elements, enhancing the game's visual appeal, and demonstrating the artists' mastery over modern gadgets and technology.
- The development of the BioShock RTX Remix, powered by artificial intelligence and progressive design concepts, continues to explore the intersection of art and technology in gaming.
