So how does the new CLANBOOK: MALKAVIAN measure up? Well, the new CLANBOOK series books are handsome but more conventionally designed than their predecessors. No kiddie drawings here (darn) or "Blind Bats and the Elephant" (double darn). However, in their place is a wonderful expanded presentation of the Malkavian's history and character.

The text is mostly new. In the original, Malkavians were tricksters who challenged accepted concepts with mad pranks. The new edition emphasizes the mystical character of Malkavian insanity, develops the prophetic group mind underlying this and explores the loss and return of the Dementation discipline. (If Gehenna prophecies are part of your chronicle you need this book. Malkavians are canaries in the coal mine- the Final Nights affect them first.) Two (apparently) different Malkavians narrate. Both know things seemingly beyond their experience- one from a voice in his head and the other from memories he can't account for. It's more horrific than the original, almost as eccentric and easier to follow.

It has features standard in the new CLANBOOK series: new discipline variations, merits and flaws, an expanded noteworthy Malkavians section and a sample Malkavian coterie. It details new derangements and, unlike the original, helpfully includes derangements in the (all new) player character templates and the noteworthy Malkavians' stats. The antitribu templates defy the expectations created in GUIDE TO THE SABBAT and sound more rewarding to play.


Much Improved   November 27, 2000
 9 out of 9 found this review helpful

Gone are the yacko warner ripoffs and bunny slippers. This revised edition actually sheds light on the children of Malkav instead of printing pages backward and being obtuse. Most of the source material from the first clanbook has been thrown out of the window, and replaced with much more workable( and fluid) interpretation. Even the madness network gets a facelift, becomming the 'Cobweb'. For players wanting to really get into the role of a Malkavian, this book is your best foothold.


Feel the pull of Malkav.   August 11, 2000
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

Excellent. I found the book to quite insightful. It was written well, a bit confusing at times. Yet, what does one expect from this mad lineage. It is a must for all Malkavian players. It shows that the madness need not be horrid and "flashy." Rather, they can be subdued and withdrawn to the point where all other characters become queasy wondering when you may burst.

The character concepts in the back are great from hich to garner ideas. I feel Clanbook: Malkavian is perfect for the role-player. Happy Hunting


Very good!   August 11, 2003
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

This is a must for players of Malkavians. Here is the nit and gritty of the Malkavian clan. They are truly insane mystics not stuffed animal hugging whiney children, as they are often portrayed. These Malkavians have seen the truth; and the truth has made them mad.

This book has an excellent working of the Malkavian Madness Network and Clan specific Merit and Flaws.

If you like Malkavians or if you think they are all mindless children, buy this book.


Invaluable   August 4, 2001
 3 out of 4 found this review helpful

This book is quite simply invaluable to the maniac in you. It's in depth explinations and histories have made me the leading authority on not only Malkavians but all vampires within the playing circle I'm associated. Worth 10 times it's price