Vampires have long captivated the imagination of gamers. The horror staple offers a rich tapestry of dark lore, supernatural powers, and eternal struggles. From Gothic castles to modern metropolises, vampire-themed video games have explored the myriad facets of vampiric existence. Immersing players in immersive worlds filled with mystery, intrigue, and danger. In this article, we delve into the 7 best vampire games that have left a mark on the gaming landscape. Each one inviting players to embrace the darkness and embark on unforgettable journeys into the realm of the undead.
Video games go through thematic cycles. It’s hard to argue that the 2000’s were heavy on the zombie games, while the 2010 saw the rise of MOBAs and hero shooters. With the upcoming full launch of V Rising and Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 grabbing headlines, plus some well received VR vampiring in Vampire: The Masquerade – Justice, could 2024 be the start of a new trend? We all love some vamp action, but it’ll have to fend off survival games to become the latest trend.
Without further ado, let’s jump into Chit Hot’s picks for the 7 best vampire games to date.
Best Vampire Games
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines (2004)
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines is a cult classic action RPG. Developed by Troika Games and released in 2004, the game invites players to step into the shoes of a newly embraced vampire. Upon doing so, you’ll navigate the dark underbelly of modern-day Los Angeles. With its deep narrative, complex character interactions, and branching storylines, Bloodlines offers impressive player choice and immersion. Despite initial technical issues, the game’s rich atmosphere, compelling characters, and moral dilemmas have earned it a dedicated fanbase and cemented its status as one of the best vampire games of all time.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night made its debut for the PlayStation in 1997. The game is widely regarded as a landmark title in the iconic Castlevania series. Blending action-platforming with RPG elements, the game follows the journey of Alucard, the son of Dracula. With its atmospheric visuals, haunting soundtrack, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Symphony of the Night set a new standard for the metroidvania genre and remains a beloved classic among gamers and critics alike.
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver (1999)
Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver is a dark and atmospheric action-adventure game developed by Crystal Dynamics. Released in 1999, the game follows Raziel, a vampire-turned-wraith seeking revenge against his former master, Kain. Set in the gothic world of Nosgoth, Soul Reaver features intricate level design, puzzles, and a compelling narrative. With its themes of fate, redemption, and existentialism, Soul Reaver remains a standout title in the vampire gaming genre.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Dawnguard (2012)
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Dawnguard is an expansion for Bethesda’s critically acclaimed open-world RPG. Released in 2012, Dawnguard introduces players to the ancient conflict between the Dawnguard, a group of vampire hunters, and the Volkihar Clan, a powerful coven of vampires. Players can choose to join either faction, embarking on a questline filled with epic battles, dark secrets, and moral choices. With its immersive lore and diverse gameplay options, Dawnguard offers a captivating vampire experience.
Dark Souls III: The Ringed City (2017)
Dark Souls III: The Ringed City is the final DLC expansion for FromSoftware’s challenging action RPG. Released in 2017, The Ringed City takes players on a journey to the eponymous city at the end of the world, where they encounter fearsome enemies, deadly traps, and powerful bosses. Among the denizens of The Ringed City are the feared Ringed Knights, twisted and corrupted beings reminiscent of vampires. With its haunting atmosphere, intricate level design, and punishing difficulty, The Ringed City offers a thrilling and memorable vampire-inspired experience for Dark Souls fans.
Vampyr (2018)
Vampyr was developed by Dontnod Entertainment and is an action RPG set in a fictionalised version of London, during the early 20th century. Released in 2018, the game follows the story of Jonathan Reid, a newly turned vampire. Grappling with his newfound thirst for blood, and the moral choices that come with it, players navigate the plague-ridden streets of London. They must balance their need to feed with the consequences of their actions. Every life taken or spared has a ripple effect on the city and its inhabitants. With its engaging narrative, morally ambiguous choices, and atmospheric setting, Vampyr offers a unique and immersive vampire experience.
BloodRayne (2002)
BloodRayne is a third-person action-adventure game developed by Terminal Reality and released in 2002. Players assume the role of Rayne, a half-vampire dhampir on a quest to rid the world of supernatural threats. Set during World War II, the game features fast-paced combat, acrobatic moves, and supernatural abilities that allow Rayne to dispatch her enemies with brutal efficiency. With its blend of horror, action, and campy humor, BloodRayne offers a fun and entertaining vampire-themed experience for fans of the genre. There have been several attempts to bring back the series and even a movie adaptation, but the original still remains the high point.
The best vampire games offer a diverse range of experiences. Atmospheric RPGs, action-packed adventures and even visual novels. Whether exploring gothic castles, navigating dark urban landscapes, or embracing supernatural powers, these games invite players to immerse themselves in the rich lore and timeless allure of vampire mythology. The best vampire games continue to captivate and entertain across the globe. Hope is high that forthcoming additions to the vampiric gaming scene can live up to expectation.
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