Bloodlines 2 relents on paid clans, offers them to all after "frank feedback"

The two Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 clans that were set to launch as paid DLC will now be included in the base game. The long-awaited sequel is just one month out, but has been mired in discontent over the locking-away of two of its iconic factions. Paradox, White Wolf, and The Chinese Room confirm that, in response to a community outcry, the Toreador and Lasombra clans will now be included as part of the base game from day one.

Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 is shaping up to be tremendously exciting - Lauren's preview paints a picture of a game that delivers on the promise we've waited two decades to see realized. But what could be one of the best vampire games in years has also been marred with controversy around the decision to paywall two of its clans behind an optional DLC pack called 'Shadows and Silk.' The publisher recently said it was considering "adjustments" and refunded PlayStation Store preorders of the premium edition, and now we know why.

The team confirms that both the Toreador and Lasombra clans will be included with the core game when the Vampire The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 release date hits. "Thanks to our community for the frank feedback on Bloodlines 2 and the Premium Edition," Bloodlines 2 executive producer Marco Behrmann says. "That feedback made it clear: Lasombra and Toreador belong in the base game, so that is what we are doing.

"We'd also like to thank The Chinese Room for their quick turnaround on the concepts for the post-launch Story Packs. We're constantly impressed by their creativity and skill in weaving enticing narrative threads that expand on the main story in Bloodlines 2." That means you'll have access to all six Bloodlines 2 clans right from the beginning without needing to pay extra.

The developer is also unveiling two new Bloodlines 2 Story Packs: 'Loose Cannon' will tell Brujah Sheriff Benny's story, while 'The Flower & The Flame' follows the path of Toreador Primogen Ysabella's path. Both are included in the Premium Edition Expansion Pass, alongside the day-one Santa Monica Memories Cosmetic Pack, and will be released in 2026.

Check the Vampire The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 system requirements if you're planning to jump in from the get-go. If you're need an upgrade, here's what we recommend as the best graphics card in 2025.

Are you happy with this change in direction, and will it get you to buy the game where you might have held off previously? Let us know in the PCGamesN community Discord server, where you can chat with staff and fellow readers.