Andrew Ryan

About

Andrew Ryan is a pivotal character in the BioShock series, serving as the founder of the underwater city Rapture. Born as Andrei Rianofski in the Russian Empire, he fled to the United States after the Bolshevik Revolution, deeply disillusioned with communism. Ryan became a successful business magnate but grew discontent with government interference in his affairs. He built Rapture as a utopia where individuals could pursue their ambitions free from external control, embodying his objectivist philosophy. Ryan's vision for Rapture was rooted in his disdain for authoritarianism and his belief in individual freedom. However, his ideals led to a dystopian society as wealth disparities and power struggles emerged. His confrontation with Frank Fontaine, who manipulated the city's inhabitants, led to a civil war and Ryan's descent into paranoia and totalitarianism. Despite his tragic downfall, Ryan remains a complex figure, symbolizing both the potential and pitfalls of unchecked individualism. His character draws inspiration from figures like Ayn Rand and Howard Hughes, adding depth to his philosophical and tragic narrative.