Irrational Games has announced an e-book prequel to upcoming BioShock Infinite called Mind in Revolt, written by Irrational Games' writer Joe Fielder with input from creative director Ken Levine. The prequel will tell the story of Columbia – the city in the sky in which BioShock Infinite takes place – before Booker DeWitt comes along and starts stirring things up with the help of the powerful Elizabeth.
Fielder says:
“Since we first announced BioShock Infinite, our fans have asked for more information about Columbia and the complex cast of characters that inhabit the floating city. After reading the e-book, players will have a better understanding of BioShock Infinite’s world, the struggle between its factions, and the motivations of key characters, like rebel leader Daisy Fitzroy, without spoiling the mysteries of BioShock Infinite.”
What we've seen of Columbia so far does suggest that the world in which BioShock Infinite takes place has plenty of stories to tell that the game will probably only touch on lightly. If this really is spoiler-free, and doesn't ruin the experience of discovering that world in the actual game, then I might give it a try, or at least read it after I've completed Infinite. If you want to pick up a copy, the e-book will be available on the Kindle Store from February 12th, free for those who've pre-ordered Infinite through Amazon and $2.99 for everyone else.