
Code Vein 2 expands on the original with a larger world, more diverse character builds, and challenging new bosses. While some strategies from the first game will still work, there’s plenty that’s different. Here are 14 tips to help you navigate this time-bending journey.
Diversify Your Weapon Choices
Code Vein 2 features seven weapon types – Halberds, Twin Blades, Hammers, One-Handed Swords, Two-Handed Swords, Bayonets, and Rune Blades – each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Different weapons suit different playstyles, so it’s smart to have more than one. No matter what weapon you prefer, keep a backup that lets you switch up your approach. For example, if you need more speed, keep Twin Blades or a One-Handed Sword available. The Bayonet is good for keeping your distance, while other weapons let you get up close. While any combination works, having variety in your arsenal can be a lifesaver.
iFrame Heavy Formae
If you don’t plan on using your secondary weapon much for attacking or switching things up, then a skill like Looming Slash could be really helpful. It gives you a good amount of invincibility frames – similar to Bloodhound’s Finesse in Elden Ring – which is useful for getting into a better position and damaging enemies. You can find it on the Ame-no-Habakiri Greatsword, a starting weapon, but getting that weapon requires buying the Deluxe Edition of the game.
Swapping Blood Codes
If you’ve built a character focused on ranged Forma attacks and now need more defense, or a way to withstand more damage, try switching Blood Codes during battle. Because Code Vein 2 lets you use any weapon type with any Blood Code, you have a lot more options for customizing your character and adapting to different situations – so use them!
Increase Affinity

Building relationships with your companions—increasing their Affinity—is important because it unlocks helpful new abilities when they fight with you. You’ll need to use a variety of methods to raise Affinity, not just one like giving gifts. While focusing on a few companions is a good strategy, you’ll also need to complete their personal quests to max out their Affinity. So, choose the companions you like best and focus on strengthening those bonds!
When to Assimilate
In Code Vein 2, a new feature called Assimilation is a great option for players who enjoyed playing alone in the first game. Assimilating a companion boosts your stats, but limits the special abilities you can use. It’s especially useful in tough battles, like against bosses, but keeping your companion active allows for revives if you fall. You could even fight bosses with both characters up to learn attack patterns before assimilating for a more focused fight. Both strategies can be incredibly effective if used well.
Coordinated Attacks
When fighting with a partner, stay close and coordinate your attacks. Watch for opportunities to attack enemies from the side while your partner keeps them busy. Also, don’t hesitate to draw an enemy’s attention to protect your partner. This approach works best against single, powerful opponents. When facing groups, feel free to attack freely.
Overburdened Stats
Overburdening is a system that can seem tricky at first. It happens when your stats aren’t high enough to meet the requirements of the gear you’re wearing. When overburdened, your ability to dodge is reduced, but you also gain some benefits specific to that stat (shown by two red arrows). However, there are also downsides – for example, if your Mind stat is overburdened, you’ll have more Ichor but need a constant buff to avoid taking damage. These effects can get worse, requiring even more buffs. While it can add interesting twists to how you play, being overburdened in two or more stats will make your dodge roll slow and cumbersome, so it’s important to be mindful of this if you rely on dodging to avoid attacks.
Early Parrying Equipment

Parrying is a powerful defensive move, but you’ll need to unlock it first by finding a special item. For example, the Mutinous Bracer, available from an NPC on MagMell Island, can be found fairly early in the game. If you’re struggling with dodging or blocking, look for this NPC near the weapon upgrade vendor on the island. Once you have the item, equip it in your Defensive Slot to use parrying.
Pursue Companion Quests
Don’t skip companion side quests! They’re a great way to earn new weapons, and those weapons can come with special abilities that improve your character or let you try new strategies. It’s worth checking what your companions need – you might be surprised by the rewards.
Destroy Map Jammers
Okay, so listen up, fellow gamers! If you stumble across those creepy, twisted trees with the glowing purple lights, don’t just stare at them – smash ’em! They’re called Map Jammers, and taking them out actually reveals more of the map around you. Keep an eye out for red circles on your map – those mark where these Jammers are hiding. They won’t get you any trophies or achievements, but trust me, destroying them in dungeons is super important for figuring out where to go next. It’s a lifesaver!
Travel Path
The bigger, more open environments in Code Vein 2 might be different than what some fans expected, but don’t worry – there are ways to navigate them easily. The game features both a Bike Form to help you get around quickly, and a Travel Path function. Activate Travel Path by pressing R1+R3 (or RB+Right Stick) to reveal existing and potential routes. If you’re lost, use this function to highlight unexplored areas and find your way.
Recommended Early Game Weapons

Looking for powerful early-game weapons? The Statesman’s Longbow is a great choice. You can find this inherited weapon on MagMell Island in 2177, just outside the ruins. While you’re there, check with the merchant to the west, near the coast – they sell the Silver Shot Bayonet, a solid weapon to get you started. For defense, the Bleeding Shield is excellent, but you’ll find it later, in 2277, within the Undead Forest of the Sunken City. It offers fantastic protection and completely eliminates physical damage.
Max Out Blood Code Proficiency
Don’t forget to fully level up your Blood Code Proficiency – you’ll know it’s maxed when you see a red star. Then, talk to the companion linked to that Blood Code to get an upgraded version with better stats. If you’re struggling with a challenge and have already improved your weapons, getting an upgraded Blood Code can give you an extra edge.
Talk to Lou

If you get stuck, definitely talk to Lou in The Confluence – she can offer helpful advice and point you in the right direction. Also, don’t forget to look at the bookshelf nearby; you can use it to rewatch any cutscenes you might have missed.
Read More
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- 7 Home Alone Moments That Still Make No Sense (And #2 Is a Plot Hole)
- Stephen Colbert Jokes This Could Be Next Job After Late Show Canceled
- DCU Nightwing Contender Addresses Casting Rumors & Reveals His Other Dream DC Role [Exclusive]
- 10 X-Men Batman Could Beat (Ranked By How Hard It’d Be)
- Is XRP ETF the New Stock Market Rockstar? Find Out Why Everyone’s Obsessed!
- 10 Most Brutal Acts Of Revenge In Marvel Comics History
- Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau Hold Hands in First Joint Appearance
- XRP: Will It Crash or Just… Mildly Disappoint? 🤷
2026-02-02 16:20