After a six-year hiatus, Bandai Namco Entertainment delighted fans at Summer Game Fest with the announcement of CODE VEIN II. During a Bandai Namco media event, Producer Keita Iizuka shared insights about the much-anticipated sequel to the anime-inspired souls-like game that captivated players in 2019.
A New Narrative Unfolds
Unlike many sequels that follow directly from their predecessors, CODE VEIN II introduces an entirely new storyline. “It’s actually a new story, so it’s not related to the previous CODE VEIN,” explained Iizuka. This approach allows newcomers to enjoy the game without prerequisite knowledge of the first installment while offering returning players a fresh experience. Set against the backdrop of a world ravaged by a phenomenon known as the Resurgence, players will assume the role of a Revenant hunter, empowered by an implanted heart, partnering with a formidable vampire named Lou MagMell to avert global destruction.
Combat and Gameplay Enhancements
The combat retains its challenging nature but introduces the new “Vampiric Action” system, creating a dynamic cycle where players perform weapon attacks, absorb enemy blood, and utilize that blood to unleash special vampire abilities. Iizuka emphasized that while there is a parry function, the focus of CODE VEIN II is on character customization in combat builds, enhancing player agency.
Character Creation and Visual Upgrades
One of the standout aspects of the original CODE VEIN was its intricate character creation system, which will be significantly expanded in the sequel. “The character customization in CODE VEIN II will be a leveled-up version from the previous game, so there will be more options,” Iizuka disclosed. This improvement aims to facilitate user-friendly creation of appealing characters while incorporating a darker tone that deepens the vampire lore and history.
Exploration and World Design
Players will navigate two distinct timelines: a devastated present world due to the Resurgence and a past world a century prior where humans and Revenants thrived. “The present world is largely uninhabited and in ruins, while the past world is mostly intact, preserved by Revenants’ powers,” according to the presentation materials. The game also introduces new traversal mechanics to enhance exploration.
Independence from Prior Titles
Notably, CODE VEIN II will be a completely standalone experience, with no ties to the God Eater universe, as clarified by Iizuka. “For CODE VEIN II, it’s a totally new world. The story and drama occur in this fresh setting,” he stated. Despite the changes, the team remains committed to preserving the essence that made the original beloved, ensuring familiar gameplay at its core.
