Simpler Vampire

[Superj3nius]

One of my players wants to make a vampire character, or at least have his character get bit by one. I have no problem except that the vampire stuff in the monster manual is crazy and way too over powered for my game and the level. I would like a simpler vampire, not so powered. I would like to make it but I have no idea where to start, any ideas on a homebrew? or another creature that might suffice as a good subsitution?

 

[RUMBLETiGER]

If the character is less than 5HD (I think?), than he/she becomes a vampire spawn, which is weaker than a vampire.

Or homebrew something. Check the Vampire progression and maybe choose the first few levels?

 

[Dragonwriter]

Or you could check out the Half-Vampire template from Libris Mortis, if you have access to it. Some of the goodies of a vampire, some of the problems and a lot lower-power overall.