Code Vein 2 launched just yesterday, and players are already diving into its punishing yet rewarding souls-like gameplay. Set in a post-apocalyptic world of vampiric Revenants, the game emphasizes build crafting, exploration, and partner bonds. With an open structure across timelines like Magmell's past and present, missing early unlocks can lead to frustration. Prioritizing these five will give you a massive edge, smoothing boss fights, traversal, and customization right from the start.

1. Blood Code Mastery

Blood Codes act as your classes, dictating stats, traits, and playstyles. Mastering them early unlocks powerful, unique Boosters that passively enhance your build.

How to Unlock

After beating the prologue boss Franz the Dejected Assailant, talk to Lavinia in present-day Magmell. Equip a Blood Code and farm proficiency EXP by killing enemies - stronger foes like Resurgence Abominations fill the gauge faster. Max it out, then return to Lavinia and select "Catch Up" for the Booster.

Why Early?

Lycoris Blood Code is the easiest to master first (just two codes available before Undead Forest locks it). Boosters offer permanent stat tweaks and flexibility - swap codes mid-fight without pausing. This sets up versatile offense, defense, or support from hour one.

Tip: Pair with Noah's code for Dexterity-scaling dual blades or Josee's for Ichor generation on attacks.

2. The Motorcycle

Traversal is key in Code Vein 2's vast open world, and nothing beats fast travel between hubs and quests.

How to Unlock

It unlocks automatically after Franz and early quests with Noah and Valentin. Return to present-day Magmell Island Bridge near the Water Treatment Plant for permanent access. Summon with V on PC or R1 + Left D-Pad on consoles (not usable in dungeons).

Why Early?

Cuts backtracking tedium, speeds side quests, and lets you ram enemies for quick damage or escapes. In a game with interconnected areas and timeline shifts, this QoL boost prevents burnout.

Tip: Use it to hunt blue map icons for health upgrades like Golden Blood Beads (better potion heals) early.

3. Booster Extraction

Boosters are your passive build cornerstones - extract them to mix and match for god-tier setups.

How to Unlock

Available right after the prologue in Magmell's past. Head to any unlocked Mistle (rest point) and use materials from exploration to craft.

Why Early?

Lets you fine-tune stats beyond default codes. Farm mats while exploring for weapons and Haze currency, turning aimless wandering into build power. Essential for adapting to diverse enemies and bosses.

Tip: Prioritize Strength, Dexterity, or Mind Boosters to amp early weapons like VK Dual Blades or Ame-no-Habakiri Greatsword.

4. Jail Booster Capacity

The Jail system holds your Formae (active skills split into Weapon, Bequeathed, and Defensive lanes). Expanding capacity means more experimentation.

How to Unlock

Complete Holly's optional Timeline Shift quests, defeat her present-day form, then unlock Free Exploration Era in Magmell. Speak to her to start Jail research and max capacity.

Why Early?

Permanently increases slots for Traits and stats, preventing overload as you collect gear. Rushing the main story risks missing this - it's a long-term powerhouse for hybrid builds.

Tip: Upgrade Jails like Reaper for parries or Bat for blood-draining swarms. Max weapons/Jails to +20 at Magmell shops.

5. Mutinous Bracer

This Defensive Formae is a parry master's dream, opening stagger windows on tough foes.

How to Unlock

After the opening past quest and accessing Magmell, go to the room on the right side of the main staircase. Talk to Jadwiga to get it.

How to Use

Equip in Defensive slot, activate with L1/LB for parry timing - perfect guard staggers for Drain Attacks.

Why Early?

Gives control in elite packs and bosses where dodging alone fails. Risky to learn, but mastering it trivializes early Magmell Island. Synergizes with partners like Lou for aggro draw.

Tip: Combine with Bleeding Shield Formae to nullify physical hits while guarding.