During a recent preview of the highly anticipated Bloodlines 2, players discovered an intriguing piece of literature, an Anarch manifesto, buried within the Makom. This manifesto alluded to the idea that Prince LaCroix was 'on the wind,' a phrase referencing the aftermath of the Los Angeles incident in the original Bloodlines. This revelation prompted questions about which ending from the original game is considered canonical, sparking curiosity among fans.
Multiple Truths in Vampire Lore
Jason Carl, the brand manager for World of Darkness (WoD), addressed this conundrum, providing clarity yet sustaining the mystique that surrounds vampire narratives. He elaborated, 'Everything is canon, but not everything is true.' This enigmatic statement emphasizes the complexity of storytelling in the vampire universe, where vampires often lie and fragmented perspectives allow multiple truths to coexist. In this light, different character representations, like those of LaCroix, may hold truth from varying viewpoints, despite lacking objective validation.
Further complicating the narrative landscape is the enduring mystery of Ming Xiao and the Kuei-jin. While the lore for Vampire: The Masquerade's fifth edition indicates that the Kuei-jin have departed Los Angeles, their influence remains indelible. Carl underscored that 'the story of Bloodlines was a specific slice of time in a specific place,' noting that although the Kuei-jin have left without a 'forwarding address,' their imprint persists in canon, albeit shrouded in ambiguity.
New Horizons in the Bloodlines Universe
The narrative direction of Bloodlines 2 takes bold steps into new territory, stepping away from direct sequels that could constrain creative expression. According to Ian Thomas, the narrative director, the inherent branching choices in the original game presented challenges in constructing a direct sequel. An 'air gap' between the original storyline and the new setting contributes to a fresh narrative canvas.
The Chinese Room's development of Bloodlines 2 places Seattle at the center of this new universe. This bustling city serves as a distinctive setting, devoid of the historical baggage Los Angeles carries, offering a dynamic and unexplored environment for players. Though Bloodlines 2 acknowledges its origins, it also charts its path, providing both homage to and advancement from its predecessor.
As the Bloodlines franchise continues its journey, players and fans are invited to explore narrative complexity and diversity, understanding that the multiplicity of truths enriches the storytelling experience. As vampires navigate the twisted interplay of truth and deception, their stories continue to captivate and inspire exploration.
