Cabernet is a new narrative-focused role-playing game that has arrived to explore the complexity of being a vampire in a human world. Players embody Liza Morozova, a former doctor who, after her transformation into a vampire, faces deep moral dilemmas while helping other vampires and dealing with her thirst for blood.
The Morality of Vampires
Set in the 19th century in Eastern Europe, Cabernet stands out for its unique focus on character statistics. Instead of using typical RPG attributes, Liza has scores in Literature, Art, Science, and History, which influence the game’s dialogues and decisions. These features allow players to customize their interactions and unveil new narrative paths through the development of relationships with humans and vampires.
The narrative of Cabernet is complicated by the need for Liza to feed on human blood, forcing players to balance their empathy for the living with her vampiric nature. This vital dilemma raises questions about the essence of humanity and the morality of feeding, as players must decide between sacrificing friends or seeking out victims they do not care about. Each choice has consequences, adding tension to the gaming experience.
Despite its interesting premises, Cabernet is not without technical issues. There have been reports of errors and glitches that complicate gameplay, such as confusing interactions and bugged missions. However, the gripping story and the exploration of morality in a world of vampires have generated great interest among genre enthusiasts. Some players have expressed their desire to revisit the game, despite its flaws, drawn in by the intense decisions and the repercussions of their actions.