
The Chinese Room recently shared exciting updates about Vampire: The Masquerade Bloodlines 2, particularly shedding light on the vampire hunters. This faction, known as the Information Awareness Bureau (IAB), operates clandestinely with a shadow budget, despite not receiving official government support. Their mission is to hunt down vampires, referred to as "Hollow Ones," under the guise of conducting "training exercises" and "counter-terrorism efforts."
Leading the charge in Seattle is Agent Baker, a disciplined and pragmatic leader dedicated to the permanent eradication of vampires. Known as "The Hen" among her loyal followers, Baker meticulously investigates strange occurrences and delves into historical data to uncover the connections to the hidden vampire society. Her unwavering authority and strategic approach make her a formidable opponent.
The hunters of the IAB are highly coordinated and maintain stringent security at their base, making it extremely challenging to confront them alone. They operate in teams, using spotlights and staying connected via portable radios to enhance their effectiveness. In combat, they employ thermic batons that bypass defensive maneuvers and phosphorous grenades to flush enemies out of cover. Their sniper crossbows are equipped with explosive bolts that cause devastating damage if not promptly removed.
Despite their formidable tactics, the hunters have vulnerabilities. They are physically weaker than ghouls and vampires, which can be exploited with specific skills. For instance, characters with the Fire ability can catch grenades or bolts mid-flight and return them to the sender. Additionally, players utilizing the Ventru clan's powers can possess an enemy, turning them against their own team.
Vampire: The Masquerade Bloodlines 2 is set to launch in the first half of 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, promising a thrilling experience with these new dynamics involving the vampire hunters.