System Shock 2 Released On Steam

System Shock 2 is now available through Steam. The 1999 sci-fi horror shooter, developed by BioShock Infinite studio Irrational Games, can be purchased for a discount for a limited time.

In SS2, an experimental ship called the Von Braun is preparing to take its first voyage. During the journey, the crew of the Von Braun and military escort ship Rickenbacker is assimilated by an alien race known as The Many. Players step into the shoes of an anonymous soldier onboard who must defeat The Many and the infected crew members.

BioShock, also by Irrational Games, was considered the spiritual successor to System Shock 2. The two shared many features, including audio logs, character customization, hacking, and respawn chambers. SS2 is less streamlined, though, and less afraid to punish players. Character customization choices are permanent and weapons deteriorate with use. As a result, it's much tenser and scarier experience than BioShock.

System Shock 2 was re-released through GOG in February. The GOG edition comes with several digital extras, including the soundtrack and manual. Those extras don't appear to be available on Steam.

However, the Steam version is cheaper for a few days. To celebrate the game's launch, Valve has marked it down to $6.99. This discount will last until May 17th.