Code Vein 2: Preview and Producer Interview

Bandai Namco’s Code Vein, a 2019 soulslike action title, captivated players with its intense gameplay and dark aesthetic. At this year’s Summer Game Fest, the highly anticipated sequel, Code Vein 2, was unveiled. We had the chance to attend a preview event hosted by Bandai Namco, where we explored early details of the game and sat down with its producer, Keita Iizuka, for an exclusive interview. Here’s what we learned about this ambitious new chapter.

Code Vein 2

What to Expect from Code Vein 2

A New World on the Brink of Collapse

Unlike the original, Code Vein 2 introduces a fresh setting with a narrative focused on vampires fighting against annihilation. The story is set in a dystopian future where a phenomenon known as the “Cycle” has shattered civilization. Humanity clings to survival through the power of vampires, but a new threat, the “Moon of Desire,” corrupts these vampires, turning them into monstrous beings and pushing the world toward ruin.

You play as a vampire hunter burdened with the mission to save the world. Joined by Lou Magmel, a mysterious girl with the ability to travel through time, you’ll venture 100 years into the past to rewrite history and prevent disaster.

Time-Travel as a Core Mechanic

The game’s central hook is its time-travel system, which lets players shape the future by altering the past. Your actions in the historical world ripple forward, transforming the present and unlocking new story paths. This mechanic aims to deliver a rewarding sense of agency, as your choices directly influence the narrative and world state.

Characters and Customization

Protagonist: Fully customizable, allowing players to craft their ideal appearance.
Lou Magmel: A pivotal companion who revives the protagonist after a fatal vampire-hunting mission by sharing half her heart. She can sense emotions and manipulate time, making her integral to the story.

More characters will be revealed closer to release.

Gameplay and Combat

Code Vein 2 stays true to its soulslike roots, offering high-difficulty action gameplay. You’ll team up with allies to battle enemies and navigate treacherous environments. A standout feature from the preview is a summonable motorcycle, which speeds up exploration across the game’s expansive world.

Powerful bosses—vampires corrupted by the Moon of Desire—stand in your way, demanding skill and persistence to overcome.

Combat Systems

Vampiric and Technique Attacks: “Vampiric” attacks deal damage while collecting “Netherblood,” a resource used to unleash devastating “Techniques” for high damage, dodging, or unique maneuvers. These systems work together to create a fluid, strategic combat loop.
Blood Code System: This feature lets players switch between distinct playstyles on the fly:
- Balanced Code: Offers versatility with well-rounded stats, ideal for diverse strategies.
- Agile Code: Prioritizes speed and dexterity, rewarding skilled players with smooth, dynamic combat.
- Power Code: Focuses on strength and endurance, minimizing Netherblood depletion and encouraging aggressive Technique use.

In-Depth Interview with Producer Keita Iizuka

We spoke with Keita Iizuka, the producer of Code Vein 2, to dive deeper into the game’s development and vision.

Q: How does Code Vein 2 connect to the original game?
A: This sequel is set in a completely new world with an original story and cast. We’ve introduced a range of compelling new characters, and we’re excited for players to meet them.

Q: What’s new in the combat system compared to the first game?
A: We’ve expanded the arsenal with new weapons and abilities, making combat more diverse and engaging than ever.

Q: The art style seems more realistic this time. What inspired this change?
A: Our goal was to heighten the visual intensity and make battles feel more gripping, which led us to refine the style, including how characters are portrayed.

Q: Some fans noted that the trailer’s character models seemed less polished than the original. Has the team or character design staff changed?
A: The core development team is nearly identical to the first game. The trailer focused on introducing the new world and tone, but the final game will deliver a polished experience that feels distinct.

Q: How difficult is Code Vein 2 compared to its predecessor?
A: It’s a step up in challenge, but we’ve enhanced the combat system with more weapons, a robust companion system, and explorable side areas with helpful features. Fans of the original will enjoy a deeper, more varied experience.

Q: Does the story have branching paths or multiple endings?
A: Yes, player choices create branching storylines, especially since actions in the past affect the present. We’re keeping the number of endings under wraps for now—players will have to discover that themselves.

Q: Are there limitations to switching between the past and present worlds?
A: Time-switching unlocks as the story progresses and is fairly flexible. The game provides prompts when switching is needed for key plot moments. The two worlds also feature unique environments and characters.

Q: What’s the approach to map design?
A: We’ve built on the original’s structure but added explorable side areas beyond the main zones. Moving between dungeons creates fresh gameplay experiences.

Q: Why is the blood golden in Code Vein 2, unlike the red blood in the first game?
A: The vampires in this world have evolved after years in hiding, and we chose golden blood to visually highlight their enhanced powers.

Q: The original had balance issues with companion performance, limiting player choices. How are you addressing this?
A: We’ve taken that feedback seriously. Companions will have distinct abilities, but we’re ensuring players can use their favorites without feeling disadvantaged.

Producer’s Closing Words:
Code Vein 2 takes players to a new world, and we’ve poured our hearts into its creation. The time-travel narrative adds a unique layer to the story, and we can’t wait for players to dive into this adventure.