The Chinese Room recently shed light on Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2's vampire hunters, the Information Awareness Bureau (IAB), in a development update. Operating on a clandestine budget, independent of government backing, the IAB hunts vampires, or "Hollow Ones," under the guise of training exercises and counter-terrorism operations.
Agent Baker, the Seattle bureau chief, is a pragmatic and disciplined leader, wholly dedicated to the permanent eradication of vampires. She meticulously investigates unusual events, poring over historical records to uncover connections to the hidden vampire world. Her unwavering command has earned her the moniker "The Hen" amongst her loyal team.
The IAB hunters are highly organized, maintaining a heavily secured base, both internally and externally. Confronting them solo is exceptionally difficult; they operate in coordinated teams, employing spotlights and maintaining communication via portable radios. Their arsenal includes thermic batons, bypassing standard defenses, and phosphorous grenades to flush enemies from cover. Their sniper crossbows launch explosive bolts inflicting significant damage unless swiftly removed.
Despite their effectiveness, these hunters aren't invulnerable. Physically weaker than both ghouls and vampires, players can exploit specific skills to overcome them. For instance, the ability to catch and redirect fire can neutralize grenades and bolts mid-flight. Similarly, the Ventrue clan's powers allow players to possess an enemy, turning them against their own team.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is slated for release in the first half of 2025 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
