Brawl (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)
Definition
Brawl is fighting with what you brought: fists, elbows, teeth, claws, and the weight of your body against someone else's. For vampires it also covers the strength and speed the Blood provides, and the ugly, efficient way the Beast fights when it takes over and technique stops mattering. It is the combat skill most Kindred lean on because it is always available. No weapon to carry, no weapon to explain to police, nothing to lose in a search. Feeding by force is a Brawl problem too: grabbing a struggling vessel and holding them still is a grapple, which is why even characters who never plan to fight buy a dot or two.
How it works
Tips
Frequently asked questions
Is Brawl or Melee better for a vampire?
Brawl is more practical, since your hands and fangs are always with you and never get confiscated. Melee weapons hit harder per swing, which matters against other Kindred.
Can I grapple a vessel to feed?
Yes, and that is the standard approach for predator types that feed by force. Grappling is a Strength plus Brawl roll, and a struggling vessel gets a chance to break free.
Do claws use Brawl?
Yes. Protean claws change the damage type to Aggravated, but you still roll Strength plus Brawl to hit, so the Discipline does not save you from buying the skill.