It may show signs of age, but Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines remains a standout title in the RPG genre, primarily due to its immersive atmosphere. Released in 2004, this classic offers a narrative so compelling that it nearly overshadows the myriad of game-breaking bugs that plagued its launch. While Bloodlines 2 may not quite recapture that elusive magic, it still provides an engaging experience within the Vampire: The Masquerade universe. For those hesitant due to mixed reviews on Steam, there is encouraging news on the pricing front.
Exploring the New World of Darkness
It’s essential to clarify that Bloodlines 2, despite its title, does not serve as a direct sequel to Troika Games’ original. Rather, it functions as a spiritual successor, striving to evoke a similar ambiance but set against the backdrop of modern-day Seattle instead of Los Angeles. The original Bloodlines set a high standard, often regarded as one of the finest vampire games ever created. Therefore, it may be more beneficial to view this installment as a fresh spin-off within the tabletop RPG’s expansive universe.
In her review for PCGamesN, superfan and news editor Lauren Bergin awarded Bloodlines 2 a modest score of 5/10, noting that it “fails to recapture the original’s magic, instead magnifying the worst parts of Troika’s classic.” Nevertheless, the allure of wandering the streets as a bloodthirsty Kindred, combined with modern graphics, makes this new entry appealing to many fans.
Players assume the role of Phyre, a 400-year-old elder who awakens from a prolonged slumber only to find themselves marked and stripped of their powers in Seattle. Accompanied by a chattering Malkavian named Fabien in their head, Phyre navigates a city rife with conflict among warring factions. As is customary in the World of Darkness, players can choose their clan, each offering distinct playstyles—ranging from the mage-like ranged abilities of the Tremere to the formidable strength of the Brujah.
While Bloodlines 2’s combat mechanics may come across as somewhat clunky, they do allow players to indulge in the fantasy of wielding immense power. Abilities such as Blood Curse, which causes enemies’ blood to boil and explode, or Hypnosis, enabling control over unsuspecting foes, add layers of excitement. Additionally, players can borrow Disciplines from other clans, allowing for unique character builds that blend the strengths of various bloodlines.
For those who cherished the original, Bloodlines 2 may not fulfill all expectations, but the mere existence of a new VTM game is a cause for celebration. If the mixed reviews have deterred you, consider taking advantage of a current discount; The Chinese Room’s vampire adventure is available for just .19 / £45.99 at Fanatical, making it a more tempting purchase.
To ensure optimal gameplay, it’s advisable to check out our guide on the best settings for Bloodlines 2, which will help enhance performance and minimize disruptions during missions. And for those eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts, we invite you to join our PCGamesN Discord server, where World of Darkness fans can gather to discuss their favorite titles from the franchise.
