Back in 2019, Bandai Namco launched its foray into the soulslike world with Code Vein. While it didn’t shake up the scene, it was an outing that was accepted by many as something that had potential but didn’t quite meet the bar set by other similar soulslike outings. Fast forward to 2025, and Code Vein 2 was announced to the delight of eager fans who have been looking forward to the next installment in this series.

During Summer Game Fest, I sat in with the Bandai Namco team who graciously gave us a deeper look at Code Vein 2, what to expect from the game, and what are some of the new features that would set it apart from similar titles.

Code Vein 2 Preview

Code Vein 2 seeks to refine and expand upon the foundation laid by its predecessor rather than deviating from it, delivering a familiar yet enhanced experience. It sets to retain the core elements that fans appreciated while introducing new mechanics, aiming to elevate both gameplay and storytelling.

One of the standout features of Code Vein was its highly detailed character customization system, allowing players to craft their own unique avatars. In Code Vein 2, Bandai Namco promises an even deeper customization experience, offering an expanded selection of outfits and color palettes, more voice options, and advanced sliders for finer facial and body adjustments.

Beyond the character creator, Code Vein 2 enhances character building with the return of Blood Codes, providing greater variety and flexibility in tailoring playstyles. Players can equip and unlock an expanded set of Blood Codes to optimize strategies and builds suited to their preferred approach.

The game also introduces an evolved partner system, adding more depth to cooperative gameplay. Lou MagMell, a key figure in the story, shares a mysterious connection with the protagonist that unfolds throughout the journey. Together, they will traverse two distinct timelines, past and present, to save humanity.

These timelines play a crucial role in the world of Code Vein 2. 100 years ago, Revenants worked to maintain order after the phenomena known as the Resurgence, fending off the Horrors that threatened civilization. In the present day, the world is on the brink of collapse due to the Luna Rapacis, which drives Revenants to madness and disturbs their coexistence with humans. Players must navigate both time periods, seeking out legendary Revenants who can join them in battle.

It’s worth noting that these Revenants can replace Lou, according to Bandai Namco. It’s possible that playstyles may change depending on who your Revenant partner will be, with certain abilities synergizing better with others.

Interestingly, Bandai Namco mentions that while traveling between the past and present is available, there will be noticeable effects where something you do in the past will affect and result in something in the present. This is quite an interesting concept that could be tricky to implement, so we’ll have to wait and see how this all unfolds.

Combat remains familiar but refined, integrating new mechanics such as the Formae System, which expands attack variety through ranged strikes and status effects. New weapons, including a versatile Bayonet, will look to introduce new playstyles, allowing players to adapt to different situations.

Additionally, the Bequeathed Formae grants access to powerful, ancient weapons beyond modern technology, offering new offensive techniques

Players can also equip Jails, specialized equipment that can provide both offensive and defensive capabilities. Various Jails, including melee and ranged types like the Bat and Bow, add a new layer of style to combat encounters.

Players will traverse an expansive world in Code Vein 2 filled with points of interest, engaging in mini-dungeons with boss encounters. To aid in exploration, a motorcycle provide will allow for faster traveling across different regions.

Overall, Code Vein 2 strives to surpass its predecessor in meaningful ways. While it is still to early to tell, it would be interesting to see how well these new features and systems will work together to provide a cohesive experience.

Code Vein 2 is set to release in 2026 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam.