3 Things Code Vein 2 Needs to Have This Time (to Get Better Reviews Than the First Game)

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When *Code Vein* first launched, it aimed to make a name for itself among games like *Dark Souls*. Its unique anime style and fast-paced battles caught people’s attention, but it didn’t receive widespread praise. Players were often conflicted – they loved the game’s look but found some aspects unpolished. This left *Code Vein* feeling like it was always trying to measure up to the games that inspired it. However, it still had a hidden charm and a lot of promise that maybe deserves another look.

If Bandai Namco makes a sequel to *Code Vein*, they have a great chance to improve upon the original. The first game had strong points – like its cool combat, interesting post-apocalyptic world, and memorable characters – but also some flaws. A sequel that focuses on polishing those strengths and offering more freedom to players could be a big hit with both critics and fans.

3. More Open Class Customization

Okay, so I really liked the idea behind *Code Vein’s* Blood Code system, but honestly, it didn’t quite live up to what I expect from a Souls-like game. They basically felt like pre-made classes, giving you fixed stats and skills. The ability to switch between them mid-battle sounded awesome, but it ended up limiting how I could actually build *my* character. I missed being able to level up specific stats and really customize my build. It didn’t feel like *my* progression, you know? What could have been a really cool, flexible system ended up feeling kind of limited and not very deep after a while.

To improve the character progression in *Code Vein 2*, Bandai Namco should move away from fixed character classes. Instead, the sequel should let players directly customize their stats – like strength, agility, health, and willpower – to create a truly personal experience. A good solution might be to combine the interesting style of Blood Codes with the deeper, more flexible character building found in traditional RPGs. This would encourage players to try different builds and give them the same satisfying sense of control that makes games like *Dark Souls* so addictive and replayable.

If *Code Vein 2* can successfully blend its unique style with more player freedom, it would be a significant improvement over the first game. The Blood Code system was a good idea that helped *Code Vein* stand out, and it doesn’t need to be removed. However, it needs to be updated to be more versatile. While the original game showed promise, reviewers noted it lacked complexity. A more open progression system, based on stats, could give players the diverse character builds that fans of Souls-like games are looking for.

2. More Ambitious Level Design

One consistent weakness of *Code Vein* was its level design. Though the game had a beautiful art style, many areas felt repetitive and confusing. Corridors often looked the same, and layouts made exploring feel like a tedious task. While a few landmarks stood out, and areas were connected, these routes weren’t particularly memorable. Instead, the zones in *Code Vein* often felt like separate battlegrounds linked only by foggy pathways.

When creating the next *Code Vein* game, Bandai Namco should learn from FromSoftware and prioritize thoughtfully designed environments. Each area should have a unique story told through its visuals, with memorable landmarks and shortcuts that encourage players to explore. While the game doesn’t need to be open-world, varied locations are key – think of cities overtaken by nature, frozen areas where you can barely see, or flooded ruins that change as you play. The first game had a good atmosphere, but each area felt similar. With the series now well-established as a “Souls-like,” *Code Vein 2* has the opportunity to create much more distinct and memorable environments.

Improving the level design in a potential *Code Vein 2* would significantly enhance the combat. The first game’s battles often took place in small, confined spaces, restricting player options. A sequel with larger, multi-level areas, opportunities for vertical movement, and interactive environmental dangers would add the depth that many players and critics felt was lacking. When the environment itself becomes part of the challenge – a weapon or a puzzle – exploration becomes more than just traveling between fights; it becomes an integral part of the experience, making those areas truly memorable. Consider how iconic locations like Anor Londo from *Dark Souls* or Leyndell, the Royal Capital, in *Elden Ring* are still celebrated by fans years later.

1. Proper Mod Support

Giving players official tools to modify a game – often called ‘mod support’ – can significantly extend its lifespan, and this is especially true for visually striking and mechanically interesting titles like *Code Vein*. Even without official tools, *Code Vein* has already fostered a small but passionate modding community that’s created new costumes, camera adjustments, and performance improvements. This demonstrates the huge potential a sequel could realize if Bandai Namco actively embraced modding. Providing mod support sends a clear message to players that the developers value their community’s contributions and trust them to help improve the game.

Adding official mod support to *Code Vein 2* could be a huge win. This could include things like easy access to Steam Workshop, tools for editing game files, or even official community challenges. Players of Souls-like games love to customize and tweak their experiences – it’s almost essential in that genre! This is an opportunity for *Code Vein 2*. Imagine players creating new character classes (Blood Codes), weapons, or even completely reimagining the game’s world. With the right tools, the modding community could keep *Code Vein 2* fresh and exciting for years, turning it into an evolving platform instead of a game people play once and move on from. No other major Souls-like game has fully embraced modding yet, so *Code Vein 2* could be the first – and that could significantly improve reviews and boost sales long-term. The developers just need to recognize this potential.

Besides extending the game’s lifespan, allowing mods would fix a major problem from the first game: uneven quality. Bethesda games are often celebrated *despite* being buggy at launch, because dedicated players are willing to fix those issues themselves, at no cost. This kind of helpful, free work usually improves the game for everyone, including the developers. In the past, fans frequently created fixes to improve performance or adjust difficulty. By embracing modders from the beginning, Bandai Namco could turn a potential weakness into a real advantage. This approach has worked consistently since the early 90s: give players the freedom to create, and they’ll keep your game alive for years and maintain a positive relationship with you. So it makes sense to support modding, doesn’t it?

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2025-10-09 04:11