Hard to choose
Picking plasmids to use early in the game is challenging. They give you so many to choose from and each is so useful. I find myself constantly swapping them
Oh my goodness, I totally get it! When I first jumped into BioShock, I was completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of plasmids available. The game throws "Such a variety!" at you right from the start, and it feels like every single one could be super useful. I remember spending way too much time in the menu, second-guessing my choices and constantly swapping them around, especially in those intense early sections like the Upper Wharf. It's a classic BioShock dilemma: how do you pick the best plasmids when you're just starting out and resources are tight? After many playthroughs, I've developed a few go-to strategies and discovered some absolute must-haves for those crucial early hours. My personal philosophy? Focus on versatility and crowd control initially, then branch out into more specialized offensive powers. For starters, Electro Bolt is almost non-negotiable. It's fantastic for stunning enemies, buying you precious time to land headshots, or escape a tricky situation. Plus, it's essential for opening certain doors and disabling security systems, which is invaluable for exploration and avoiding unnecessary fights. I found myself using it constantly, especially against Big Daddies or groups of Splicers. Next up, I always grab Incinerate!. Not only is it incredibly satisfying to watch Splicers burst into flames, but it's also brilliant for environmental traps. Need to clear a path of ice? Incinerate! Want to make a puddle electrified with your Electro Bolt? Incinerate! Its utility in combat and puzzle-solving makes it one of the best BioShock plasmids to invest in early. It really helped me manage groups of enemies without taking too much damage. Another personal favorite that often gets overlooked is Telekinesis. While it might not seem as flashy as the elemental plasmids, its strategic depth is huge. You can grab projectiles thrown by enemies and hurl them back, pick up items from a distance, or even use environmental objects as weapons. I can't tell you how many times I've saved ammo by throwing an explosive barrel back at a group of Splicers. It's a power that truly makes you feel like you're manipulating the environment, and it’s a game-changer for conserving resources. Now, about swapping plasmids – don't be afraid to do it! The game encourages it. I used to think I needed to stick to just a few, but understanding when and how to swap made a huge difference in my gameplay. For example, if I was about to enter a flooded area, I'd always equip Electro Bolt. If I knew I was facing a lot of Houdini Splicers, I'd make sure Winter Blast was ready for crowd control. The quick menu is your friend here! Practice using it to fluidly switch between powers based on the threat or situation at hand. It's not about finding one best plasmid, but using the right plasmid for the job. Finally, remember to visit those Gatherer's Gardens frequently! Upgrading your favorite plasmids significantly boosts their effectiveness and makes them even more fun to use. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of plasmids and tonics; that's where the true joy of BioShock's combat system lies. Deciding what plasmids should I buy really comes down to your preferred playstyle. Do you want to be a master of elemental destruction, a stealthy manipulator, or a tanky brawler? BioShock lets you be all of them, sometimes all at once!
