BioShock beginner guide: plasmids, EVE and the Medical Pavilion
Learn the original BioShock combat loop, what ADAM buys and how to change equipped plasmids.
Original 2007 PC BioShock campaign. BioShock Remastered, BioShock 2 and later series entries are outside this guide. Images are publisher assets from the original Steam listing.
Combine Electro Bolt with a follow-up attack
Electro Bolt briefly interrupts many enemies, creating an opening for a wrench strike or aimed shot. Against splicers standing in water, target the water to spread the electrical attack. Watch your own position before using environmental hazards; a useful puddle or oil slick can also trap you in the same small room.
Separate ADAM, EVE and money
ADAM buys genetic upgrades at Gatherer’s Garden machines. EVE fuels active plasmids, while dollars pay for ordinary supplies at vending machines. Spending one resource does not refill the others. Keep an EVE reserve for a needed stun, and search containers and defeated enemies before purchasing ammunition you may find nearby.
Change your loadout at a Gene Bank
Plasmids occupy active slots; gene tonics give passive benefits in their own categories. When a new power displaces an old one, the old power is stored, not destroyed. At a Gene Bank, swap owned plasmids and tonics to suit the next area. Buying a power and buying another slot are separate decisions.
Use Medical Pavilion to learn exploration
Medical Pavilion introduces environmental obstacles alongside ordinary fighting. Incinerate! melts ice, and Telekinesis can move objects and return thrown explosives. Read objectives and explore adjoining rooms when the direct route is blocked. Collect audio diaries as you search: their speakers explain why apparently ordinary clinics have become dangerous.
Before attacking a Big Daddy, reload, refill health and decide where you can retreat.
Picture details
Game artwork belongs to its respective rights holders.
References
Covered edition: Original 2007 PC BioShock campaign. BioShock Remastered, BioShock 2 and later series entries are outside this wiki. Images are publisher assets from the original Steam listing.