Dead by Daylight was close to featuring a different but equally iconic Dungeons & Dragons villain.
Behaviour Interactive developers recently revealed what Dead by Daylight’s year nine roadmap will bring, including collaborations with beloved franchises. The upcoming Dungeons & Dragons chapter will introduce the Undying King Vecna as a Killer, bringing one of D&D’s most iconic villains into the game.
In an interview on the Slasher Radio Podcast with Game Director/Mathieu Cote, Behaviour Interactive’s Head of Partnerships, it was revealed that Vecna wasn’t the only option for the Dungeons & Dragons Killer. Cote mentioned that Count Strahd von Zarovich was also considered but ultimately passed on, likely due to the upcoming addition of an iconic vampire from Castlevania in the game later this year.
Cote explained the decision to select Vecna as the Killer, stating, “Vecna has been part of D&D in some form for the last fifty years.”
As Dungeons & Dragons celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, Vecna is also being featured in the newly released adventure book Vecna: Eve of Ruin, where the Lich attempts to reshape the universe. When asked if Count Strahd was considered, Cote provided insight into the decision-making process, mentioning the need to differentiate between vampire characters and the association of Ravenloft with Dungeons & Dragons.
While Count Strahd may not be included in the current roadmap, there is potential for a future D&D Chapter where he could make an appearance. For now, players can anticipate the arrival of Vecna in Dead by Daylight.