Introducing Phyre: The Enigmatic Elder Kindred of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

Phyre’s Past and Present

Phyre has been around for quite a while, Embraced back in the early 17th century. That’s right, they’ve seen a lot of history unfold, but what makes Phyre unique is that you can tailor them to your liking. You get to choose their gender, clan, outfits, and even their behavior. It’s like picking out a new outfit, but for a centuries-old vampire.

But be careful! Your choices, from your conversations to your fashion sense and even how you snack on the local Seattle residents, will shape the world around you. Yes, your decision to snack on a particular Seattleite might have consequences. So, choose wisely!

Welcome to 2024 Seattle

“Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2” is set in Seattle in the year 2024, and Phyre is waking up from a long, 100-year nap. As an Elder Kindred, Phyre’s been around for at least three centuries, but there’s a gap in their knowledge. That’s like being a vampire grandparent who can’t figure out how to use a smartphone!

But don’t fret – Phyre won’t be navigating this brave new world alone. There’s a mysterious companion named Fabien, a thinblood vampire from modern-day Seattle, who’s moved in. He knows stuff Phyre doesn’t, and he’s like the little devil on their shoulder, but with information instead of mischief.

The Phantom Fabien

Fabien is like your invisible friend who only Phyre can see or hear. He’s here to help guide players, especially those who are new to the expansive world of Vampire: The Masquerade. Fabien’s like your cheat sheet to the vampire universe, helping you make sense of it all.

“Even if you don’t understand much of what is going on at the beginning, Fabien is here to help be that cipher for you a little bit, even though it’s not your character,” Le Bray explained. “You, as the player, are still getting that information alongside Phyre.”

Choices, Choices, Choices

When it comes to the game, it’s not as black and white as “good” or “evil.” You won’t be stuck choosing between being a goody-two-shoes or a heartless vampire. Your choices will shape Phyre, and you’ll be free to play as you see fit.

“We didn’t want it to feel like you can only be a nice person or a jerk,” Le Bray noted. “So, one of the things that we looked at very early on is how can we make it feel like Phyre is a person in control from moment to moment? How can you go about getting that outcome?”

Shaping a Legend

Phyre’s been around for centuries, and many in Seattle know the “legend of Phyre.” But here’s the fun part: you can help mold that legend. You can choose to confirm, deny, or stay silent about your past deeds, especially if it helps you achieve your goals. Think of it like editing your Wikipedia page, but with a twist.

Vampires in the Real World?

One of the coolest things about “Bloodlines 2” is that it blends vampire tales with real-world history. In the game, you’ll meet Lou, who’s based on a historical figure named Lou Graham from the 1800s in Seattle. She was a madame of a brothel and a wealthy and influential citizen. So why is she popping up in 2024? Well, that’s part of the game’s charm – blending fact and fiction in a way that keeps you guessing.

“That is one of the fun things about Vampire: The Masquerade – the real-world elements and sort of looking at, well, what was the reason for that real-world thing?” Le Bray pondered. “Did that thing happen because of history saying that it happened for this reason? Or was there an alternate reason why such a thing happened, especially in Seattle.”

What’s Next for Bloodlines 2?

And if all this has whet your appetite for vampire adventures, stay tuned. The Chinese Room, the brains behind the game, will soon delve into the world of clans. And if you’re eager to sink your fangs into the action, you won’t have to wait too long – a gameplay reveal is slated for January 2024, with a fall release date. So, clear your schedule and get ready for some bloodsucking fun!

“Bloodlines 2” is the sequel to the 2004 classic, and it’s set to take players to the gritty underbelly of Seattle, where vampires prowl and politics get as intense as the thirst for blood. So, sharpen your fangs and prepare to immerse yourself in a world where keeping the vampire society hidden from humanity is the name of the game.