There are some flaws with hunger, not the least of which might be the confusing way they are presented in some of the book’s examples, and the “messy criticals” leave something to be desired in the case of what the core rulebook considers impossibly non-messy actions, like stealth. Hunger mechanics are odd at first blush of life, but you’ll come to appreciate this clear element of risk in the horror genre. This is partially due to the metaplot having moved forward to a point where the Camarilla’s ivory towers have mostly fallen, the old alliances are broken, the Sabbat are all out in the East, and most nights are about trying to sate the beast riding shotgun in your soul. seemingly focuses on the “street level” of cities where characters play, which can be jarring for older players used to the grander politics in a kindred cold war. Mostly good things here, including the move away from blood pools, an updated metaplot, social combat mechanics, and more. The 5th edition of White Wolf’s Vampire: The Masquerade quickens the blood of long-held traditions in the game’s history.
