As December 2025 unfolds in Los Angeles, anticipation for The Game Awards reaches a fever pitch. Gamers are buzzing on forums like ResetERA and Reddit, speculating on surprise announcements: Will Phantom Blade 0 get its release date? Which iconic figure will Geoff Keighley bring on stage first—a Muppet or Kojima? And what’s the mystery behind the Mojave Desert monolith? Amidst this excitement, a select group of Soulslike aficionados were invited to Bandai Namco for an exclusive preview of Code Vein II, offering a first glimpse into the game’s world.
Exploring Code Vein II’s Unique World
Though a sequel in name, Code Vein II is crafted as an independent adventure. Developers at Bandai Namco Studios and Shift emphasize that no prior knowledge of the original game is necessary. With its launch scheduled for January, players still have time to familiarize themselves with the world of Code Vein on various platforms. The storyline shifts from the vampire-like Revenants of the original to a new dynamic where players become Revenant Hunters, hunting their former kin who have transformed into Horrors.
Gameplay and Innovations
Code Vein II introduces a compelling theme of altering the past to reshape the present. The game opens with a dramatic cutscene about ancient heroes sealing a calamity, prompting players to journey back in time to disrupt these seals and change the course of history. Players aren’t alone in their quests; an NPC partner assists in battles, providing strategic advantages and serving as an extra life when needed. Though multiplayer is absent, the Partner system enriches the solo experience.
The battle mechanics in Code Vein II enhance the player’s strategic options with defensive forma and varied weapon skills, allowing for customized combat experiences. Players can adapt their defense and weaponry for different situations, maximizing their effectiveness against foes. The new leveling system provides versatility, relying on Blood Codes to specialize and optimize character builds.
Anticipating the Release
With the absence of traditional multiplayer, Code Vein II leans into its robust partner system to offer players a fighting edge. These partners adapt to the player’s style, and absorbing them provides unique benefits, though it requires brave solo ventures. As players explore intricate environments, they will uncover pathways and secrets reminiscent of the first game’s design. The public demo, releasing January 23rd, offers a preview of these thrilling features before the full game launches on January 30th, 2026.
