The preview embargo for Code Vein 2 lifted recently, flooding the internet with hands-on impressions just weeks ahead of its January 30, 2026 launch on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios, this sequel to the 2019 cult hit Code Vein promises a refined take on the "anime soulslike" genre.
But with the soulslike market saturated by 2026 releases like Nioh 3 and Lords of the Fallen 2, does Code Vein 2 break free from being "just another clone," or does it recycle familiar tropes with an anime skin?
Combat: Fluid, Customizable, and Punchy
At its core, combat retains soulslike DNA: stamina-managed dodges, parries, blocks, and pattern learning against punishing bosses with phases, status effects (acid, paralysis), and one-shots. Death drops Haze (currency), retrievable at risk, with Mistles as bonfires that respawn foes and refill heals.
What elevates it? A revamped resource loop: Build bleed stacks via attacks, execute Jail/Drain moves (claws, bats, scythes, spears) for Ichor (mana), then unleash 200+ Formae skills (buffs, projectiles, AOE). Blood Codes dictate stats/playstyles (e.g., Josée's attacks generate Ichor but overflow damages you), switchable anytime with boosters. Weapons span greatswords (charged smashes), bayonets (slash + charged shots), rune blades (telekinetic spins), hammers, halberds, twin blades, and more. Guns shine: Limited ammo rifles knockdown foes from mid-range, prompting "why more soulslikes don't have guns."
Faster and "more responsive" than Code Vein 1's stiffness, it rewards experimentation. Pair a slow greataxe with speed buffs or bracers for parry stance-breaks. Bosses demand adaptation, but viable builds abound.
Partners: The Soulslike Game-Changer
No multiplayer here, doubling down on AI companions as a "distinct" hook. Summon via Jail for aggro-draw, distractions, and revives (Restorative Offering: cooldown, diminishing returns). Or assimilate for buffs/stats, enabling true solo play. Smarter than CV1, they hold their own without dominating. Link Traits unlock Blood Codes, tying progression to bonds. Previews call it a "great trade-off," softening difficulty while preserving tension.
Exploration: Dungeons, Zones, and Time Shifts
Dungeons like the flooded Sunken Pylon mix linear paths with open floors, shortcuts, and objectives (purify pollution). Golden paths aid navigation (blue for backtracked), but time jumps reshape zones: Fix the past, heal the present, reveal secrets. More expansive than CV1, with motorcycles teased for traversal.
Customization: A Creator's Dream
The standout: An absurdly deep character creator (demo drops January 23), tweaking sclera, pupils, nails, veils, gas masks, and more for anime perfection. Carryover to full game. Builds layer Blood Codes, Formae, gear, and burdens for endless viability.
Just Another Souls Clone? No, a Distinct Evolution
Yes, it's a soulslike: Bosses punish impatience, Mistles reset foes, retrieve losses. But clones? Hardly. Companions replace co-op with smart AI and revives; guns/ranged diversify melee focus; time travel adds agency and emotion; hyper-customization (RPG dials like Nioh) ensures no "wrong" build. "Dark Souls through an anime lens," but with heart: Tragic bonds make deaths personal. Previews agree: Refined CV1 flaws, "marked improvement," sidestepping fatigue via sauce.
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