TheAlkaizer
Game Designer
Hi!
I've been a stalker of ENWorld for a bit for my upgrades on tabletop games. I've now created an account because I am in a dilemma.
I played the Vampire the Masquerade video games many years ago and really enjoyed the mood and setting. I never got to play the Vampire tabletop games but I often delved into bits of lore and plot. Recently, I decided that I'd try something new and I chose Vampire. I've done some research to fully understand the different editions and versions of the game.
To me, it seems that the two suggested versions of the game are: the V20 or 20th anniversary edition that came out in 2011; and the 5th edition that came out in 2018.
To my understanding, the V20 is very comprehensive and is probably the most complete and authentic version of what Vampire was for most of its lifetime. However, I was told that the mechanics feel very dated, are clumsy and that because of the insane amount of lore it's very hard to get into. But most opinions were that once you're past the accessibility issue, it's a very rewarding game that's hindered a bit by cumbersome mechanics.
5th edition is apparently quite elegant in its mechanics. It's easy to understand, there's not much content that came out and the lore has apparently been moved to a place that's easier to pick up. However, I read many posts from purists that are saying that even though the game is mechanically elegant, some mechanics really change the dynamics, power level and fantasy of the game. I've also read many comments on how 5th edition turned its back to a big part of what made Vampire the Masquerade lore so great.
I'd say that it's been 50/50 from what I read. I've scoured the internet for hours but can't seem to find something to convince me which version is right. So I wondered if some people on ENWorld were fans of Vampire and could help me make an informed purchase.
Thank you in advance
I've been a stalker of ENWorld for a bit for my upgrades on tabletop games. I've now created an account because I am in a dilemma.
I played the Vampire the Masquerade video games many years ago and really enjoyed the mood and setting. I never got to play the Vampire tabletop games but I often delved into bits of lore and plot. Recently, I decided that I'd try something new and I chose Vampire. I've done some research to fully understand the different editions and versions of the game.
To me, it seems that the two suggested versions of the game are: the V20 or 20th anniversary edition that came out in 2011; and the 5th edition that came out in 2018.
To my understanding, the V20 is very comprehensive and is probably the most complete and authentic version of what Vampire was for most of its lifetime. However, I was told that the mechanics feel very dated, are clumsy and that because of the insane amount of lore it's very hard to get into. But most opinions were that once you're past the accessibility issue, it's a very rewarding game that's hindered a bit by cumbersome mechanics.
5th edition is apparently quite elegant in its mechanics. It's easy to understand, there's not much content that came out and the lore has apparently been moved to a place that's easier to pick up. However, I read many posts from purists that are saying that even though the game is mechanically elegant, some mechanics really change the dynamics, power level and fantasy of the game. I've also read many comments on how 5th edition turned its back to a big part of what made Vampire the Masquerade lore so great.
I'd say that it's been 50/50 from what I read. I've scoured the internet for hours but can't seem to find something to convince me which version is right. So I wondered if some people on ENWorld were fans of Vampire and could help me make an informed purchase.
Thank you in advance