Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 Confirms Fan-Favorite Clans in Base Game After Backlash

After weeks of heated debate in the community, Paradox Interactive has officially walked back one of its most controversial decisions regarding Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2. The publisher confirmed that both the Lasombra and Toreador clans—two of the most iconic and beloved bloodlines in the World of Darkness universe—will now be fully available in the base game at launch, rather than being locked behind a premium DLC paywall.

This announcement comes after significant backlash from fans, who were quick to voice frustration when Paradox revealed in August that these clans would only be accessible through a $22 DLC bundle. Considering that Lasombra and Toreador are central to the lore and community of Vampire: The Masquerade, the initial decision was seen as a blow to player trust. With the game already delayed multiple times since its original 2020 release window, this added controversy threatened to overshadow its long-awaited debut.

Paradox Interactive’s executive producer, Marco Behrmann, released a statement thanking the community for its feedback, stating: “Lasombra and Toreador belong in the base game, and we are grateful to our fans for speaking up.” In addition to confirming the clans’ inclusion, Paradox also shared a brand-new overview trailer and outlined future narrative expansions. Two story packs are already planned for the Premium Edition Expansion Pass: Loose Cannon, focusing on Brujah Sheriff Benny, and The Flower & The Flame, which will spotlight Toreador Primogen Ysabella. These expansions are expected to release sometime in 2026.

The reversal marks a major win for the community, which has waited more than two decades for a proper follow-up to the cult classic Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines. Fans were understandably frustrated after years of development turbulence, including a change in studios from Hardsuit Labs to The Chinese Room in 2023. Despite those hurdles, early previews have painted a promising picture, with critics praising the game’s dark atmosphere, branching narrative, and faithful adaptation of the World of Darkness setting.

With its October 21, 2025 launch date fast approaching, Bloodlines 2 is one of the most anticipated RPGs of the year. By addressing fan concerns and ensuring that core clans are not paywalled, Paradox has taken an important step toward rebuilding trust and excitement ahead of release.