The Chinese Room has released a new Dev Diary for Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, discussing the “visceral, immersive combat.” Project creative director Alex Skidmore says the goal is to “create an action experience that can compete with modern titles.” To that end, players can expect three gameplay styles: Strategic Stalker, Action Brawler and Narrative Adventure.
Strategic Stalker is for those who enjoyed Dishonored or stealth builds in Fallout or The Elder Scrolls. It’s focused on sneaking and the “element of surprise,” as you take out enemies surreptitiously or employ “hit and run tactics.”
Action Brawler is for those who prefer up close and personal combat, with the God of War series, Elden Ring and Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor used as references. The Brujah are most skilled at brawling, going all-out against enemies and using crowd control. However, the two styles are considered “two extremes on the same action spectrum”, and you can mix and match as you see fit.
Narrative Adventurer is for those who prefer to focus on the story over the combat. There aren’t many details, but it’s meant to provide “exciting battles” without delving “too deeply into the combat mechanics if things like characters and story are more important to you.”
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 launches in Fall 2024 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC (with Paradox Interactive confident that it won’t be delayed). Stay tuned for more details in the meantime.
