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Paradox, the publisher behind Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, has announced that it will be issuing refunds for PlayStation Store pre-orders as it plans significant modifications following criticism over its decision to gate certain clans behind DLC.

The controversy erupted after it was revealed that Bloodlines 2 would initially include four clans: Brujah, Tremere, Banu Haqim, and Ventrue. This setup offers players four distinct paths to shape their main character, but it falls short of the seven clans featured in the original Bloodlines, a beloved classic.

The game’s developer, The Chinese Room, subsequently introduced two additional clans, Lasombra and Toreador, into Bloodlines 2. However, these clans were accessible only through the Shadows and Silk DLC, priced at $21.99, or as part of the Premium Edition, which costs $89.99. The standard edition of the game is priced at $59.99.

Available from launch day, the DLC has led to perceptions that the complete character set has been fragmented, with only those who pay more receiving the full experience at the outset. Understandably, this has led to considerable discontent among fans.

A post from the official Bloodlines 2 social media account stated, “Hi, we are currently making adjustments and will provide more details on September 17. Significant changes require time, and we aim to get this right.

“Refunds for PS Store pre-orders will be processed on September 8. Pre-orders will be reopened prior to the game’s launch on October 21.

“Thank you for your patience; more information will follow soon!”

Now, fans are speculating whether Paradox will integrate Lasombra and Toreador into the base game without additional costs. The prevailing opinion online seems to anticipate just that.

One user on social media, reacting to the announcement, remarked, “Nothing less than including them in the base game price will change my mind about this. Otherwise, I’m out.”

Another suggested, “The only way to mend this situation and rebuild trust with the community is to offer the base game complete with all clans and reserve DLC for new side stories and cosmetic items, or include these extras in a higher-tier package like a deluxe or premium edition, without affecting the core narrative.”

Some community members expressed their gratitude for the publisher’s response to the backlash. “I’m really looking forward to seeing your solution for the DLC-locked clans,” one fan commented. “Thank you for listening to the community and attempting to resolve this issue. I understand that refunding pre-orders was not an easy choice.”