Plasmid

Plasmids are special serums made from processed ADAM that introduce special stem cells into the body, allowing for genetic modification and real time mutation, giving the user what some might call "super powers". Plasmids are powerful, but excessive use of them leads to physical and mental addiction, as well as insanity. This helped to bring about the downfall of Rapture.

BioShock


Jack has a limited number of slots for actively equipped plasmids. The player can change his currently equipped plasmids at a Gene Bank. The player may purchase additional slots (up to maximum of six) and select plasmids at a Gatherer's Garden.

Another plasmid, Teleport, was ultimately removed from the game in the final versions. The player also receives a plasmid from Tenenbaum, which allows him to rescue the Little Sisters. Some plasmids are found in bottles lying around Rapture, and they are visually distinguishable from Gene Tonics due to their bright, saturated red glow. A file containing names of possibly-removed plasmids named Predefined_Plasmids.txt can be found in the BioShock directory.

BioShock 2


Players will be able to use plasmids and weapons simultaneously. Upgrading a plasmid also unlocks an alternate use: For example, upgrading the Incinerate! plasmid gives the player the ability to produce fireballs, and can ultimately use their hand as a flamethrower. A larger suite of plasmids will be available, as well as more upgrade levels. It will also be possible for plasmids to be used in conjunction. For example, Plasmid Trap (known as Cyclone Trap in BioShock) can be infused with another Plasmid, such as Incinerate! which will create fire traps. Most, if not all, of the Plasmids from BioShock will return.

The following new plasmids are for multiplayer only:

Trivia

 * The name "Plasmid" was inspired by the term in genetics for DNA strands that can be transferred between bacteria. These are commonly used as vectors in genetic engineering.