Paradox Reflects on Bloodlines 2 Development Shift: 'A High-Risk Maneuver'

Paradox Interactive's deputy CEO, Mattias Lilja, has shed light on the company's decision to hand over development of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 to The Chinese Room. This move, announced in September last year, marked a significant turn of events in the game's development journey. Initially slated for release in 2020, the game is now expected to launch in the first half of 2025. According to Lilja, the change in development team was necessary to prevent the project from being shut down entirely. He described the move as a 'high-risk maneuver' but expressed confidence in The Chinese Room's ability to deliver, citing their experience in crafting games with tight storytelling and settings. The new developer has taken over where Hardsuit Labs left off, with Paradox allowing them the freedom to decide what elements to carry over and what to change. Lilja emphasized that the game's vision remains largely intact, with The Chinese Room bringing their own unique touch to the project. He also hinted that players can expect an action RPG experience steeped in the lore of the World of Darkness, drawing comparisons to Dishonored. The decision to switch developers was not taken lightly, with Lilja acknowledging the challenges that Hardsuit Labs faced in building a team while simultaneously developing the game. In contrast, The Chinese Room brings a more stable and experienced approach to the project, which has given Paradox increased confidence in the game's potential for success.