Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 got delayed to October 2025

GAMING NEWS Rugir - May 15, 2025, 15:01

The highly anticipated Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 has faced another setback, with its release now pushed to October 2025. Publisher Paradox Interactive and developer The Chinese Room announced the delay, citing the need for additional polish to deliver a worthy successor to the 2004 cult classic. While frustrating for fans, this move signals a commitment to quality for a game that’s weathered a turbulent development cycle.

What was the reason for the delay?

Originally revealed in 2019 under Hardsuit Labs, Bloodlines 2 faced multiple delays, a narrative team overhaul, and a developer switch to The Chinese Room in 2021. The change sparked skepticism, as The Chinese Room’s portfolio leans heavily on narrative-driven “walking simulators,” a far cry from the RPG depth and combat of the original. However, recent previews have eased doubts, showcasing a bold blend of immersive sim mechanics inspired by Dishonored and Deus Ex.

Set in a gritty, nocturnal Seattle, Bloodlines 2 casts players as Phyre, an elder vampire navigating clan politics and supernatural intrigue. The game emphasizes player choice, with branching dialogue, faction alliances, and varied playstyles, stealth, combat, or manipulation, shaped by your vampire clan’s abilities. The Chinese Room has doubled down on the original’s mature tone, blending dark humor, moral ambiguity, and a pulsating soundtrack to capture the World of Darkness essence.

The delay stems from refining the game’s ambitious systems, particularly its open-ended quest design and polished combat. The Chinese Room aims to avoid the original’s launch issues, where bugs overshadowed its brilliance. Fan reactions are mixed: some praise the studio’s transparency and dedication, while others, burned by years of waiting, fear another misstep.

Paradox remains optimistic, promising a 2025 packed with reveals, including extended gameplay trailers. With Bloodlines 2 now targeting a Halloween-adjacent release, it’s poised to sink its fangs into the fall gaming season. For fans of the original’s unique RPG legacy, this delay could ensure Bloodlines 2 rises as a modern classic, not a rushed relic. Check out the best deals for Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 using our price comparison tool.