The original Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines, despite its age and notorious bugs, holds a special place in many hearts as one of the most atmospheric RPGs ever made. Its storytelling was so captivating it almost overshadowed its technical flaws. While Bloodlines 2, the long-awaited follow-up, might not perfectly recapture that unique charm, it still offers a compelling Vampire: The Masquerade experience. If the recent mixed reviews have left you undecided, you’ll be pleased to hear there’s an attractive launch discount available.
It’s important to note that Bloodlines 2 isn’t a direct continuation of Troika Games’ classic; it’s more of a spiritual successor. It aims to evoke a similar mood, transitioning the setting from Los Angeles to a contemporary Seattle. The legacy of the first Bloodlines, considered one of the best vampire games, set a challenging precedent. Therefore, it’s perhaps best approached as a fresh narrative within the rich Vampire: The Masquerade universe, rather than a direct sequel.
Currently, you can purchase Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 at a reduced price through Fanatical. For example, it’s available for $55.19 (down from $59.99) in the US, and £45.99 (down from £49.99) in the UK.
Our own review for Bloodlines 2 noted that it struggles to replicate the original’s unique charm, often highlighting its imperfections. However, for many, the allure of embracing a new vampire identity and exploring a modern World of Darkness setting with contemporary visuals is irresistible.
Players step into the shoes of Phyre, an ancient 400-year-old elder who awakens in Seattle from a long sleep. Branded and with their powers diminished, Phyre is also accompanied by a persistent Malkavian presence named Fabien within their mind. True to the World of Darkness tradition, you select your clan, each offering distinct playstyles—from the arcane Tremere to the formidable Brujah. Naturally, Seattle’s vampiric factions are embroiled in a bitter power struggle, and Phyre is soon drawn into the escalating conflict.
While the combat in Bloodlines 2 can feel a bit rough around the edges, it successfully delivers on the fantasy of wielding immense elder power. Abilities like ‘Blood Curse’ allow you to spectacularly detonate enemies, while ‘Hypnosis’ provides potent crowd control. Furthermore, the game encourages creative builds by letting you integrate Disciplines from other clans, opening up exciting possibilities for unique vampire combat styles, such as a blend of Toreador and Lasombra abilities.
Despite some reservations, fans of the original will appreciate a new entry in the Vampire: The Masquerade universe. If the mixed critical reception has made you hesitant, this launch discount offers a great opportunity to experience The Chinese Room’s vampire narrative. You can currently purchase Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 for just $55.19 or £45.99 at Fanatical, making it more accessible to those looking to delve into Seattle’s Kindred underworld.
To fully immerse yourself in the game and maximize your elder vampire potential, ensuring optimal performance is key. Guides are available to help players find the best settings for Bloodlines 2, allowing for a smoother experience through its various missions and quests, minimizing technical interruptions.
If you’re eager to connect with fellow World of Darkness enthusiasts and discuss your favorite games, consider joining a dedicated community server.