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Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 Launches Globally to Mixed Reviews as PC Performance Draws Fire

The Chinese Room’s rebuild follows a turbulent handoff, emphasizing a tighter single-player campaign over deep customization.

Overview

  • The sequel released simultaneously on October 21 for PC via Steam, Epic and GOG, as well as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
  • Technical testing reports pervasive PC stuttering with severe frame-time spikes and no HDR support at launch, despite high average frame rates.
  • Critics praise the atmospheric Seattle setting and central story but cite pared-back RPG systems and awkward combat, with many advising players to skip filler sidequests.
  • The main campaign comprises 21 missions with an estimated 20–25 hours to finish the story, extending to roughly 35–40 hours with side content.
  • All six clans are included in the base game; Standard, Deluxe and Premium editions are available, with Premium adding a 2026 expansion pass for two story packs and a Rik Schaffer “Bloodlines Nostalgia Jukebox” as a pre-order bonus.