BioShock Infinite Vigors guide: Salts, traps and crowd control
Use Columbia’s powers alongside firearms and understand the difference between a direct cast and an alternate use.
The original 2013 BioShock Infinite Columbia campaign on PC. Burial at Sea and Clash in the Clouds are outside scope; the Infusion guide explicitly separates the Season Pass bonus. Images are 2K publisher assets from the Steam listing.
Spend Salts to create a firing opportunity
Vigors draw on the blue Salts resource. Use a power to interrupt, separate or weaken a threat, then make the opening count with an aimed shot or a change of position. Buying a Vigor upgrade is different from refilling Salts. Check the meter before planning an escape that depends on another cast.
Read the tap and hold behavior for each power
Several Vigors offer a direct cast and a charged or trap version, while others use their hold input differently. Watch the demonstration when you acquire one and inspect its description before assuming every hold creates the same kind of trap. Place a trap where enemies must pass rather than under your feet after you are already surrounded.
Use Possession and control powers deliberately
Possession changes a target’s allegiance temporarily, while powers such as Bucking Bronco and Murder of Crows create openings against susceptible enemies. Heavy or specialized foes do not all react like ordinary soldiers. If an expensive cast is producing little value, switch the approach instead of emptying the meter into the same resistant target.
Buy upgrades for powers you actually combine
Veni! Vidi! Vigor! machines sell improvements using Silver Eagles. Read whether an upgrade affects duration, damage, efficiency or a new interaction, then choose one that matches your regular tactics. A few reliable powers can carry a fight when used with appropriate guns and cover; spreading money over every option can leave your favorite tools underdeveloped.
A control Vigor earns its cost only if you use the time it creates to attack, reload or reposition.
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