Bloodlines 2 Refunds Issued Amid Major Pre-Launch Changes

Paradox Interactive, the publisher of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, is now issuing refunds for PlayStation Store pre-orders as it implements major changes following player backlash. The controversy stems from the decision to lock certain vampire clans behind a day-one DLC paywall.

The uproar started when it was confirmed Bloodlines 2 would launch with four core clans: Brujah, Tremere, Banu Haqim, and Ventrue. While this offers distinct starting archetypes for players, it's a smaller selection compared to the seven clans featured in the original cult classic game.

The developer, The Chinese Room, later added two more clans—Lasombra and Toreador—but only as part of the Shadows and Silk add-on pack. This DLC costs $21.99 separately or is included in the $89.99 Premium Edition, while the standard edition is priced at $59.99.

Having this DLC available immediately at launch created a perception that the "complete" clan roster was being segmented, with only players paying extra receiving the full experience. Fan dissatisfaction was swift and vocal.

At gamescom 2025, a Paradox representative told IGN the move was a business-driven decision, which only intensified the criticism. Last month, a Discord post from the publisher hinted at significant pre-launch adjustments, and now they have escalated their response by initiating these PlayStation refunds.

"Hi everyone," began a post on the official Bloodlines 2 social media account. "We are making some adjustments and will share the full details on September 17. These big changes take time, and we want to get them right.

"PlayStation Store pre-orders will be refunded on September 8. You will be able to pre-order the game again ahead of its launch on October 21.

"Thank you for your patience; we will have more to share soon!"

The community is now speculating whether Paradox will integrate the Lasombra and Toreador clans into the base game by default, rather than keeping them as separate paid DLC. The prevailing sentiment online strongly favors this outcome.

"Honestly, nothing short of including them fully in the base game will change my mind," one social media user responded to the announcement. "Otherwise, I'm skipping this title."

"The only way to salvage trust is to sell the base game with all clans included," suggested another fan. "DLC could then offer new side stories and cosmetics, or those could be part of a higher-tier Deluxe or Premium Edition, without fragmenting the core narrative."

Some fans appreciated the developer's responsiveness. "I'm hopeful to see how you address the clan-locked DLC issue," commented one supporter. "Thank you for listening to the community and working on a fix. I'm sure refunding pre-orders was a tough call."

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 has endured a turbulent development cycle with multiple delays, making this a critical release for Paradox. The publisher is undoubtedly eager to ensure the game's success, and revising its DLC strategy may now be the most viable path forward. While awaiting further news, you can read IGN's hands-on preview of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2.