FOLLOWING THE EVENTS OF Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain , vampire Kain has assembled an army to take over the world of humans. His goal is to reach the great city of Meridian and control its stronghold, but he's challenged by the Serafan Order, a force of vampire hunters led by the magical Serafan lord. Kain engages in single combat, is defeated, and his sword, the Soul Reaver, is claimed by his enemy.
After 200 years, Kain awakes under the care of vampire Umah to a world he barely recognizes. The vampires have been hunted down, and only a few remain. The city of Meridian is ruled by martial law, with the Serafan Order using glyph magic that's deadly to vampires. Kain seeks revenge on the one who defeated him and aims to reclaim his place as the ruler of the vampires.
Blood Omen 2 is a third person action game with adventure elements. The player views the environment from behind Kain's shoulder, moving him in different directions, attacking, jumping, using dark gifts, and grabbing on to ledges. Kain's life energy depletes and must be replenished constantly by drinking blood.
As Kain consumes blood, his meter is filled up, granting additional health. He learns new dark gifts by defeating boss creatures, such as blending into mist or firing projectiles. These abilities can be used for stealth kills, which instantly defeat foes. Kain will fight using bare hands or by picking up various weapons that attack differently and eventually break.
The Serafan Order uses glyph magic to power machines and switches, making it deadly to vampires. Glyph barriers often bar Kain's progress, and he must find a way around them. Glyph energy glows as it travels down its path, allowing the player to see exactly where the energy spark is.
Many puzzles in Blood Omen 2 involve creating glyph circuits to deliver power to specific points. The game requires strategy and observation of glyph energy to progress through the story.