Cabernet offers a captivating narrative that explores the hereditary nature of monsters, creating a thought-provoking connection between the protagonist’s vampirism and her father’s alcoholism. The game goes beyond superficial comparisons, uncovering the cyclical cruelty within society, especially towards the lower class, and highlighting how the new wealthy often inherit the vices of the past. This creates a gripping, consequence-driven story where each choice reverberates, sometimes with shocking outcomes. Despite a few glitches in the endgame, Cabernet remains an exceptional piece of interactive fiction that leaves players eager for more.
Set in 19th century Eastern Europe, Cabernet introduces players to Liza, who awakens in a dungeon after her funeral, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. After striking a deal with an unseen presence for freedom, she soon finds herself thrust into a world of vampires, where she must navigate a new life filled with rules and supernatural powers. Liza represents the emerging middle class of the time, unable to fully relate to either the wealthy elite or the struggling lower class, yet possessing a unique ability to influence both sides.
The storyline poignantly showcases Liza’s conflict as she must rely on the blood of mortals, often the poorest, to sustain herself. Players face challenging choices that test morality as Liza balances her humanity against nihilism. This morality system diverges from traditional good-versus-evil dynamics, allowing players to navigate a complex web of decisions that affect character interactions and relationships.
Gameplay focuses on managing time wisely as Liza completes tasks, fosters relationships, and fulfills her need for blood. A crucial aspect of the game’s lore is the enchantment mechanic, requiring players to cultivate trust with potential victims before feeding. The tension rises as Liza must carefully choose between survival and maintaining her relationships, with each decision carrying weight in future interactions.
Cabernet expertly intertwines its narrative with real-world politics and ethical dilemmas, enhancing the depth of Liza’s choices while ensuring that her supernatural transformation serves as a backdrop for deeper exploration of societal themes. The compelling character arcs and intricate choices create a rich tapestry where every decision can lead to varied outcomes, reinforcing the game’s significant replay value.
While some technical issues emerged towards the end, which hindered the completion of certain side quests, the overall experience of Cabernet remains impressive. This RPG stands out for its unique perspective on addiction through the lens of vampirism set against the historical backdrop of the 19th-century middle class. The narrative’s emotional depth and the impact of decisions are what elevate Cabernet to the level of quality that vampire stories should aspire to achieve.
