In BioShock Infinite, mastering the use of Vigors is crucial for effective combat, especially as the game presents a variety of intense skirmishes against numerous enemies. Combining Vigors strategically with conventional weapons can enhance both crowd control and damage output significantly. Here are some detailed strategies and tips to utilize Vigors effectively in combat scenarios:

Effective Vigor Combinations

1. Possession:
– Purpose: Temporarily takes control of enemies or machines, making them allies.
– Strategy: This Vigor is particularly useful against heavy enemies and turrets. By controlling these units, you can redirect their firepower toward other foes, effectively thinning the ranks of the opposition. This tactic becomes even more critical on harder difficulty levels, as it helps reduce incoming enemy pressure.

2. Murder of Crows:
– Purpose: Disorients and incapacitates groups of enemies.
– Strategy: Use this Vigor to stun multiple foes and immobilize them briefly. Follow up with Devil’s Kiss, which causes an explosive fire attack, or Shock Jockey, which delivers an electric shock. This combo can ensure that stunned enemies are quickly dealt with while maximizing damage in groups.

3. Undertow:
– Purpose: Pulls enemies closer, making them vulnerable.
– Strategy: When the charged version of Undertow is used effectively, it can draw multiple enemies together. This is a prime opportunity to use Shock Jockey to electrocute the clustered targets, resulting in quick, effective damage. The positioning of your enemies matters—utilizing Undertow near edges can also lead to enemies falling to their demise.

Upgrade and Efficiency Tips

– Upgrade Your Vigors: Always prioritize upgrading your Vigors to increase their range, effectiveness, and reduce the Salt (the resource used for Vigors) costs. This allows for more reliable combinations and the ability to sustain combat engagements without running low on resources.

– Combining with Conventional Weapons: While Vigors provide supernatural advantages, conventional weapons should not be neglected. Utilize them alongside Vigors to deliver precise and high-damage attacks on the still-reeling enemies after Vigor combinations.

Tactical Considerations

– Crowd Control First: Initiate combat by using crowd-control Vigors like Murder of Crows or Possession to disrupt enemy formations. Once they are disoriented or under control, transition to elemental or more aggressive Vigors and rifle fire to eliminate threats efficiently.

– Monitor Your Salt Meter: Keep an eye on your Salt meter, as running out of Salts can leave you vulnerable. Planning your Vigor usage based on your available Salt ensures you can sustain your offensive capabilities.

– Positioning: Your physical location on the battlefield is critical. Attempt to position yourself where you can manipulate enemy movements and leverage environmental factors. Using tight spots, cover, or edges can turn the tide of battle.

Conclusion

By effectively combining Vigors and maintaining tactical awareness of both your surroundings and enemy behaviors, you can transform combat in BioShock Infinite into a more engaging and manageable experience. Implement these strategies to fully harness the power of Vigors, making each encounter a showcase of your tactical prowess and adaptability.