Spotlight On: Vampire the Masquerade

October 10, 2021

Not only is it the spookiest month of the year, we're also celebrating Free RPG day this Saturday! There isn't a more perfect time to start playing Vampire the Masquerade, but trust us, it's fun in all seasons.

Vampire the Masquerade is a role playing game that is now on it's 5th edition, and was first published back in 1991 by White Wolf Publishing. It has remained a popular choice for decades for players who enjoy dark fantasy and horror elements, and is meant for more mature participants due to the nature of this content. 

Players choose a clan and discipline to start their character creation, and there are a huge variety to choose from! You can be anything from a deranged Malkavian to a glamorous Toreador or a noble Ventrue. The range of characters that can be created, combined with players being part of separate or different clans as a result makes for interesting dynamics and easy to formulate backstories from the get go. Set in the World of Darkness, vampires are bound to keep up “the Masquerade” in order to conceal and protect themselves from humanity.

RPGs are by nature character driven and heavy on oration, but Vampire the Masquerade is even more so given the social relationships between clans and other vampires, and their involvement in the vampire court. It's a delicate balance trying to survive the politics, treachery and ambitions of your own fellow vampires while also dealing with humankind. This RPG is best played with 3-4 players and their game master, as having a more limited player base gives everyone more opportunities to talk and contribute. 

Another good reason to dive in now? The World of Darkness: Crimson Thaw comic series debuts this Wednesday! Taking place in the universe of Vampire the Masquerade, this story will give you some inspiration for your characters and a feel for the backbiting vampire court and its clans. You can also pick up volumes 1 and 2 of Vampire the Masquerade: Winter's Teeth for a completed tale to influence your adventure!

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