StartPlaying logo
Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition

Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition

Vampire: The Masquerade presents a more dramatic, contemplative world than most tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs). While the average TTRPG experience is a Dungeons & Dragons inspired one (fighting monsters and getting treasure), Vampire is about simply surviving and keeping a piece of yourself intact. Players in Vampire become the titular mythological figure in a version of our modern world. And while near-immortality and superpowers seems cool, they come at the cost of existing in a secret society where hunters and other clans are out to get you. And there’s also the whole hungering for blood thing. In a typical Vampire game, holding onto humanity is just as tough as fending off foes.

Originally created by Renegade Game Studios

Details

3-5 Players
Storyteller System
D10

Themes

Horror
Gritty Fantasy
Modern
Supernatural

Release Date

2018
Play Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition online
Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition Reviews (18)

See what other Game Masters and players are saying about Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition

DM Disaster avatar

DM Disaster

New review

Ran 64 sessions

I've been a GM for several years and ran many systems both known and obscure and yet this system sunk its teeth into me and won't let go. I've been running this system almost exclusively for a year now (VTM, WTA, HTR) and it has to be my absolute favorite (which is saying a lot, for me). The variety of stories you can tell, the atmosphere, the beauty and tragedy.. it's all wonderfully unforgiving in a way that makes you beg for more. I believe everyone can find a way to put a piece of themselves in a World of Darkness game. 100/100 recommend you to try this system out

Chris avatar

Chris

New review

Vampire the Masquerade’s 5th edition takes some of the crunchier and more complex rules from earlier editions and makes them much more manageable. With the dice determining the effects and costs of your abilities, players are able to focus more on the narration of the story and to face the consequences that come from it. This makes for a game that can be run at a faster pace then other versions while keeping up the cool factor of playing a vampire in a modern (or not) setting. The system utilizes d10s and the better you are at something, the more dice you get to roll. Skills combine with attributes and can be bolstered by abilities and the sacrifice of some of your stored blood to accomplish just about anything. Characters are differentiated by Clans, Disciplines, and Organizations that offer their own unique boons and carry with them some drama and preconceptions among other vampires. The plotline and explanation of how vampire society came into being, what different groups are working towards, the hierarchy of the society, and so much more are included, and expanded upon in supplemental books. Campaign books give exciting but relatively short campaign adventures, and City centric books give deeper insight and hooks to make a city feel alive. For Game Masters, this is a game that can go any number of directions. Political intrigue and spy focused games are great for characters that can hide in plain sight, influence the thoughts and emotions of others, and can even invoke unimaginable terror. At the same time, a game of brutes that wish to make a name for themselves are given the same chance to make their body a weapon, increase their strength, send bullets flying in extraordinary numbers or with deadly precision, or call the creatures of the night to do their dirty work for them. The game shines best when using a combination of these things as well as any other themes you wished to utilize when telling a story that is focused around the place of the players in their city and vampiric society. I would suggest this to anyone that enjoys the idea of playing a vampire. I know that’s vague, but I feel like simply saying that will invoke ideas to just about anyone. This game promotes storytelling and character progression above all else without sacrificing the mechanics that bring people back to TTRPGs.

Bas Belda avatar

Bas Belda

New review

I've been tasting RPGs since I was 12, and after 20+ years of playing, Vampire is the one that keeps on coming up as the most classic, the most iconic. This is the most conducive game for the fullest ttRPG experience I can envision. The system and the lore couple together brilliantly to push even the most crunchy players into the world of darkness--a world of actual, deep roleplay.

ChaoticCreative avatar

ChaoticCreative

New review

Vampire: The Masquerade is a system that captures the restriction but also the immense power of the vampire. Its mechanics lend themselves to light number crunch and deeply immersive roleplay, though the latter is where I feel this system truly shines.

Onur Temel avatar

Onur Temel

New review

Ran 233 sessions

Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition manages to perfectly capture the heart of what makes vampire stories truly wonderful: personal horror. While previous edition focuses a lot more on the state of the world and the political intrigues of elders, V5 instead switches is perspective on the younger generation vampire, who struggles to survive on a nightly basis. Your characters must navigate the complex web of schemes whichever sect they are with, manage their nightly commitments, and of course their never-ending thirst for blood. The use of Hunger system, as well as Humanity, Touchstones and Convictions, allows tables to create any kind of vampire experience that they might have been inspired from: whether it's the works of Anne Rice, Braum Stoker, or Sheridan Le Fanu, this version of the game allows the exploration of all sorts of themes. That being said, it makes the use of safety tools even more important, due to its heavy elements. Overall, Vampire: The Masquerade is an unforgettable experience, and a system that anyone who likes a good horror story must give a try.

Roxas avatar

Roxas

Ran 24 sessions / Played 23 sessions

Vampire: The Masquerade (VTM) is an unforgettable dive into a shadowy world of intrigue, power, and personal struggle. While I’ve only run one chronicle, played in a few others, and explored its rich universe through many of its video games, the game’s epic lore and immersive storytelling have left a lasting impression on me. What makes VTM so compelling is its ability to craft deeply personal and morally complex narratives. The lore is breathtakingly deep, pulling you into a world where ancient rivalries, political intrigue, and supernatural mysteries collide. Every character feels like they have a role to play in a larger, darker story, and the game empowers players to create moments of true drama and suspense. The mechanics, though serviceable, can feel a bit clunky at times and may require some tweaking to keep the flow of the story smooth. But honestly, the narrative potential more than makes up for it. The system shines brightest when the focus shifts to roleplaying, character development, and exploring the intricate world of the Kindred. Whether you’re a seasoned player, a new Storyteller, or someone who’s fallen in love with the franchise through its video games, VTM offers an experience like no other. If you’re looking for a game that combines unforgettable characters, rich lore, and high-stakes storytelling, Vampire: The Masquerade is absolutely worth sinking your fangs into.

How to play Vampire: the Masquerade

Vampire: the Masquerade is played with ten-sided dice. When a player character faces a challenge, they gather a “pool” of these dice based on their relevant attribute and skill corresponding to their approach, then roll them against a target number. Each die which meets or exceeds this target number is a success, with greater numbers of successes meaning a greater degree of success. Characters might have specialties or flaws which help or hinder them, and in Vampire, players must also manage their character’s Humanity as they drift farther into their monstrous urges, as well as their Hunger the longer they go without feeding.

Online Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition campaigns
Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition Dungeon Masters

3 years on StartPlaying

689 games hosted

Average response time: 3 hours

Response rate: 100%

DMs Guild Writer
Podcaster
LGBTQ+
Queer
Veteran
Published Writer
Voice Actor
Women/Femme Identifying
Game Designer

3 years on StartPlaying

1001 games hosted

DMs Guild Writer
Streamer
LGBTQ+
Queer
Neurodivergent
Game Designer

4 years on StartPlaying

790 games hosted

Average response time: 1 hour

Response rate: 100%

Artist
Game Designer
Multi-lingual

3 years on StartPlaying

819 games hosted

Average response time: Under 1 hour

Response rate: 100%

Streamer
LGBTQ+
Queer
Neurodivergent
Voice Actor

2 years on StartPlaying

559 games hosted

Average response time: 1 hour

Response rate: 100%

Streamer
Artist

3 years on StartPlaying

1705 games hosted

Average response time: 7 hours

Response rate: 100%

Streamer
Artist

3 years on StartPlaying

1158 games hosted

Average response time: 1 hour

Response rate: 100%

DMs Guild Writer
Veteran
Disabled
Published Writer
Cosplayer
Teacher/Educator
Game Designer

4 years on StartPlaying

1124 games hosted

Average response time: 3 hours

Response rate: 100%

Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition community artists

Jesper Myrfors

Jesper Myrfors is a Swedish artist and game designer. He was the original art director for Magic: The Gathering and has contributed to various role-playing games, including Vampire: The Masquerade. His work has significantly influenced the visual style of the game.

Explore Art

Attila Adorjany

Attila Adorjany is a Hungarian artist whose work has appeared in comics, video games, film, TV, and role-playing games, including Vampire: The Masquerade. His art has contributed to the game's rich visual narrative.

Explore Art

Brom

Brom is an American artist known for his dark fantasy and horror illustrations. He has contributed to various role-playing games, including Vampire: The Masquerade, with his distinctive style adding depth to the game's atmosphere.

Explore Art

Tim Bradstreet

Tim Bradstreet is an American artist and illustrator, best known for his work on comic books, book covers, movie posters, role-playing games, and trading cards. His artwork for White Wolf and Onyx Path publications, particularly for Vampire: The Masquerade, has garnered critical acclaim.

Explore Art
Frequently asked questions about Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition

Explore Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition Classes
Brujah image

Brujah

The Brujah are fierce warriors who value passion, freedom, and individuality above all else. Clan Brujah are known more for their rebellious nature and uncontrollable tempers. They are often found on the frontlines of change, whether leading social movements or inciting riots, and they wield their unrelenting strength and speed to enforce their ideals. Despite their reputation for chaos, the Brujah harbor deep convictions and unshakable beliefs that guide their actions. They despise oppression and often clash with the rigid hierarchies of the Camarilla, but their disdain for authority can make them just as likely to burn a system to the ground as to create something better.

Gangrel image

Gangrel

The Gangrel are primal kindred capable of shifting their form at a whim, adopting more animalistic traits. Known as wanderers, they are deeply connected to nature and often find solace in the wilderness, away from the politics. Their ability to commune with the beasts of the earth has earned them a reputation as savage predators, but Gangrel are also wise survivalists who understand the delicate balance between humanity and the beast within. Despite their solitude, Gangrel tend to be fiercely loyal to those they trust, though such bonds are rare. They value freedom above all else and are reluctant to submit to the rigid structures of the Camarilla and lean more towards anarch territories. Their rugged independence and intimate connection to the natural world make them both feared and respected among Kindred.

Malkavian image

Malkavian

The Malkavians are cursed with a fractured psyche that grants them unsettling insights into reality. Their madness can manifest in countless forms—delusions, compulsions, or even full-blown psychosis—but beneath their eccentric or disturbing behavior lies a profound, if often incomprehensible, wisdom. Malkavians can sometimes seem to speak in riddles or nonsense, but their words can hold cryptic truths that defy conventional understanding. Viewed with suspicion and fear by other clans, Malkavians are often marginalized for their unpredictability. However, their unique perspective allows them to see patterns, connections, and dangers that others overlook. Their presence can unsettle even the most stoic Kindred, yet are held in high regard in some courts for their insight.

Nosferatu image

Nosferatu

The Nosferatu are the shadowy, grotesque underbelly of Kindred society, cursed with hideous physical deformities that make blending into mortal society difficult. They dwell in sewers, abandoned buildings, and the forgotten corners of cities, yet many revere them for being unparalleled information brokers, masters of espionage, and sometimes even assassins. Without being able to rely on their looks or abnormal charm, many Nosferatu become cunning fast. Their pragmatism make them invaluable allies, though they rarely engage in politics openly. Nosferatu value discretion, but they are not above using their vast knowledge to manipulate others if it serves their interests. Hidden yet ever-present, the Nosferatu see all and say little, ensuring that their role in the vampire hierarchy remains indispensable.

Toreador image

Toreador

The Toreador are the visionaries of Kindred society, captivated by beauty in all its forms. They revel in art, music, and culture, often surrounding themselves with the most talented mortals to feed their insatiable desire for inspiration. However, their obsession with beauty can make them shallow, self-absorbed, and dangerously distracted. Toreador possess a sharp cunning that belies their supernaturally graceful exterior. They excel in social maneuvering, using charm, wit, and seduction to bend others to their will. These kindred may seek beauty, but they are no strangers to the darkness within, and their pursuits often lead them into dangerous obsessions or destructive rivalries.

Tremere image

Tremere

The Tremere are the secretive and scholarly masters of Blood Sorcery. Their unique abilities allow them to bend blood to their will offering immense insight, power, or utility. These gifts grant these warlocks a level of infamy that leaves their peers equally in awe and fear. Tremere are known for their ambition and meticulous nature, often pursuing knowledge and power at any cost. They are distrusted by many for their abilities, however none can deny that their mastery of rituals and wards makes them indispensable allies.

Ventrue image

Ventrue

The Ventrue are the aristocrats and rulers of Kindred society, born to lead and bred to command. Ventrue are known for their unshakable discipline, impeccable manners, and ability to wield power with subtlety and grace. Thanks to their tenacity, they often occupy positions of authority within the Camarilla, where their influence shapes the future of their territory. However, the Ventrue’s pride can also be their greatest weakness, driving them to arrogance and inflexibility. Despite this, Ventrue are master strategists, adept at navigating the complex webs of politics and intrigue that define Kindred life. Their unyielding will ensures that they remain steadfast in their pursuit of order, even in the face of chaos.

Lasombra image

Lasombra

The Lasombra are the masters of shadow and intrigue, wielding darkness itself as a weapon and a tool. Their mysterious Oblivion powers allow them to manipulate darkness, creating terrifying displays of power that strike fear into their enemies. They see themselves as predators among predators, embracing their vampiric nature with ruthless efficiency. Similar to the Venture, Lasombra value strength, cunning, and self-determination but where these two leader clans differ is the Lasombra’s ruthless tenacity. Their disdain for traditional authority is matched only by their hunger for power, and they will manipulate, betray, and destroy to achieve their goals. Despite their brutal nature, Lasombra possess a dark charisma that draws others to them, making them both feared and admired.

Salubri image

Salubri

The Salubri are a mysterious and often misunderstood clan, known for their unique approach to vampirism and their tragic history. Once revered as healers and spiritual guides, they have been reduced to pariahs due to centuries of persecution. Salubri kindred are characterized by their third eye, often seen as a mark of their connection to the spiritual and metaphysical. They are deeply introspective, seeking redemption, enlightenment, or balance between the Beast and their humanity. Most Salubri follow a path of healing, striving to mend both body and soul. Salubri often are preyed upon for the unique properties of their vitae and it is said that only seven of them exist at any one time. The Salubri walk a lonely path, their tragic legacy shaping their every step as they seek to reclaim their place in Kindred history.

Hecata image

Hecata

The Hecata, often referred to as the Clan of Death, are an enigmatic amalgamation of necromantic bloodlines unified by their shared mastery over death and the afterlife. Comprised of various older bloodlines, the Hecata are bound by their sinister practices and an uncanny ability to manipulate the boundary between the living and the dead. United in recent nights this clan has become a powerhouse of necromantic knowledge and a dangerous force within Kindred society. They embrace their macabre nature, using their powers to commune with spirits, command the dead, and uncover hidden truths buried in death itself. While they operate as an unholy coalition, the Hecata are plagued by internal rivalries and ancient grudges, making their unity tenuous at best. Their dealings with death often lead them to walk morally gray paths, driven by curiosity, ambition, or revenge. Despite their unsettling nature, the Hecata are pragmatic and often act as diplomats or intermediaries in supernatural disputes, using their knowledge and influence to broker deals or settle scores.

Banu Haqim image

Banu Haqim

The Banu Haqim are a clan of disciplined warriors, judges, and assassins with a storied legacy rooted in honor and justice. Known for their martial prowess and mastery of blood sorcery, the Banu Haqim have long been feared as lethal killers who use their skills to strike with precision and efficiency. Their traditional focus on justice and retribution has earned them a reputation as impartial arbiters, though many distrust their methods, particularly their infamous practice of diablerie, where a kindred devours another kindred, to strengthen their power. In modern nights, the Banu Haqim find themselves torn between their ancient traditions and their integration into the Camarilla, where they are seen as both valuable allies and dangerous outsiders. Their deep-seated codes of honor often clash with the duplicity and corruption of Kindred politics, yet their discipline allows them to navigate this treacherous landscape with cunning and strength.

The Ministry image

The Ministry

The Ministry is a clan shrouded in charming mystery. They believe that true freedom lies in breaking the chains of morality and societal norms. The Ministry operates as both a religious cult and a web of infiltrators, using manipulation, seduction, and persuasion to achieve their goals. They often offer wisdom or power to those in need while subtly ensnaring them in their schemes. Their clan believes that through chaos and transformation can true enlightenment be achieved. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various domains, from crime syndicates to political intrigue, spreading their influence like a shadowy network of whispers. Ministry vampires often blur the line between ally and enemy, their motives obscured by their silver tongues and enigmatic philosophies.

Caitiff image

Caitiff

Caitiff are clanless kindred born without a clear connection to any specific lineage. Whether abandoned by their sires, created accidentally, or victims of unknown anomalies, Caitiff lack the inherited powers, traditions, and curses that define the other clans. This absence of a clan identity often leaves them struggling to understand their place in Kindred society. Outcasts by default, Caitiff frequently endure scorn and mistreatment from their peers. Particularly within the rigid hierarchies of the Camarilla. Because of this, many find solace among Thin-Bloods or in Anarch territories where they can escape the suffocating expectations of traditional vampiric society. Despite their hardships, Caitiff possess a unique freedom: unbound by the curses or rivalries of the clans, they are free to define their own destinies.

Tzimisce image

Tzimisce

The Tzimisce are the flesh-shaping scholars and warped artists of Kindred society, revered and feared for their mastery of Vicissitude. They view vampirism as an opportunity to transcend mortal limitations, experimenting on themselves and others to create horrifying and beautiful new forms. The Tzimisce’s connection to their ancestral lands and their obsession with territory give them an almost spiritual bond with the places they claim as their own. Tzimisce are notoriously cruel, often treating others as mere materials for their grotesque creations. However, beneath their monstrous exterior lies a deep philosophical core, as many Tzimisce seek to understand the true nature of existence and their place within it. Their blend of intellect, artistry, and sadism makes them some of the most enigmatic and terrifying Kindred in existence.

Thin-Bloods image

Thin-Bloods

Thin-Bloods occupy a precarious position in Kindred society, straddling the line between mortal and vampire. Descended from the weakest strains of vampiric blood, they lack the full potency of their undead kin and often experience an unstable yet powerful alchemy. Many Thin-Bloods are unable to embrace others, and their connection to their clan lineage is tenuous at best. Despite these limitations, their ‘thin blood’ allows them to more easily pass as a mortal and even endure sunlight more than their full-blooded peers. Thin-Bloods are often outcasts, struggling to find their place in an already hostile society. The Camarilla enforces harsh measures against them, leaving them to go into hiding or flee to Anarch-controlled territory for even a modicum of freedom. Despite this, their hybrid nature offers them a unique perspective, often granting them a more grounded connection to humanity.

Similar game systems to Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition

Find a Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition group and Start Playing today!

Looking for a group to play Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition online? Find a group run by a professional game master. Search for games by day, time, and experience and start playing Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition today!