Code Vein 2 Interview: Doubling Down on Its Best Traits in a Sea of Soulslikes

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This month, Soulslike enthusiasts have been engrossed in “Elden Ring Nightreign”. However, during Summer Game Fest, several other reveals were unveiled that will broaden the genre over the next year or so. Among these was a well-known title, “Wuchang: Fallen Feathers”, but one of the most exciting Soulslike surprises was the announcement of “Code Vein 2”, a sequel to “Code Vein” which was launched by Bandai Namco Studios in 2019.

After the launch of Code Vein, the action RPG genre has become quite bustling with games such as Remnant 2, Lies of P, Lords of the Fallen, The First Berserker: Khazan, and Elden Ring added to the mix. Although Code Vein 2 wasn’t playable at Summer Game Fest, a presentation revealed that Bandai Namco is keeping the original game’s unique aspects in focus. The sequel appears even more anime-inspired, embodying the popular trope of small anime characters wielding massive weapons. Unlike many Soulslikes, Code Vein 2 reintroduces partner mechanics, allowing players to battle alongside AI companions.

As a dedicated fan, I’ve been eagerly watching the evolution of Soulslikes since Code Vein made its splashy debut in 2019. Ever since the announcement of Code Vein 2 in 2020, Bandai Namco Studios has undoubtedly kept an attentive eye on the competition. With a new protagonist, story, and fresh mechanics to explore, Code Vein 2 might seem like a familiar sight when we first catch a glimpse of it in its debut trailer. However, this resemblance is intentional – they’re aiming to capitalize on what worked in the original game.

During our interview at the Summer Game Fest, Code Vein 2 producer Keita Iizuka mentioned that they examine many other games similar to Soulslike for research, but they always keep in mind the unique qualities of Code Vein. As a result, they are constantly searching for where these strengths lie.

Beyond the anime-inspired visuals that contrasted sharply with the harsh, grim atmosphere typically found in other Soulslikes, Code Vein stood out for its companion system. This feature allowed you to select a character to join your own custom-created character during battles. Each companion had unique abilities that enhanced gameplay based on individual characters, catering to different playstyles. Additionally, these companions were part of a relationship system where players could exchange preferred items to strengthen their bond. The partner system received much feedback from gamers, and Bandai Namco acknowledged it.

One clear advantage is the cooperative partner system, allowing you to delve into dungeons side by side and conquer bosses, according to Iizuka. He praised it as a lot of fun and fans agreed. In Code Vein 2, we aim to enlarge and enhance this feature based on feedback. Fans have been experimenting with different build combinations for characters, among other things, which is another positive.

In Code Vein 2, character personalization remains a significant aspect, and it’s set to be even more expansive than before. Although we didn’t get a detailed glimpse in the trailer, take comfort in knowing that customization is a key focus. During our exclusive preview, we were treated to a brief sneak peek at an extensive array of customization options for your character, suggesting that players will likely invest a good deal of time tinkering with these settings before they even begin playing the game.

As a devoted fan, I’d express it like this: “Compared to Code Vein 1, there are significantly more options to customize and divide game elements in this new title, as Iizuka mentioned. This extends to the various components of your character’s attire and even the facial features. You can adjust balance and parameters that weren’t available in Code Vein 1, but remember, it’s all within the realm of an anime-inspired visual aesthetic. The goal is for players to craft their dream or ideal anime character.

In the case of Code Vein, not every piece of feedback was entirely positive, as some players felt that the boss battles could be more engaging. Despite its unique style, Code Vein is part of the Soulslikes genre, which heavily relies on boss fights. Some players have noted an inconsistency in difficulty levels among different bosses. However, Iizuka from Bandai Namco Studios has mentioned that for Code Vein 2, they will delve deeper into the boss encounters to create more balanced difficulty curves while preserving the narrative drama and how the bosses are integrated within the storyline.

He mentioned that the distinctive anime style in Code Vein’s visual presentation is unlikely to alter significantly in the future. This unique identity is one of its strengths, but he also emphasized the importance of creating an immersive world and intense boss fights while maintaining the same anime aesthetic. In other words, the bosses should be designed to appear intimidating yet fitting within the established anime style.

Given that we’re seeing numerous games being transformed into movies and TV series these days, it’s natural to wonder if Iizuka mentioning “Code Vein universe” might imply a potential adaptation for Code Vein 2 (or elements of this newly created Code Vein world). With the anime aesthetic already prominent in the game, such an adaptation seems especially possible.

If provided the chance and necessary tools, I’d delight in transforming this into another style,” he expressed. “Considering your suggestion about it potentially becoming a franchise or a universe, I believe the shared elements could be the Remnants and the post-apocalyptic visual atmosphere, and that would be quite fascinating to convert it into an audiovisual format.

Code Vein 2 is releasing in 2026 but does not yet have a precise release date.

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2025-06-15 00:10