The wait is finally over. Code Vein 2 officially launched today, January 30, 2026, on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, bringing players back to Bandai Namco’s post-apocalyptic vampire dystopia. As the highly anticipated anime Dark Souls sequel, fans have been eager to see if this follow-up could surpass the cult classic status of the original. However, the critical consensus is in, and the results are polarizing. With a current Code Vein 2 Metascore sitting at 73, reviewers are torn between the game's ambitious open-world expansion and its undeniable technical stumbles.
A Bold but Flawed Open World Experiment
The most significant shift in Code Vein 2 gameplay impressions revolves around the move from linear corridors to a sprawling open-world structure. Critics acknowledge the developer's bravery in attempting to replicate an Elden Ring-style evolution, but the execution appears uneven. Reviewers from major outlets like IGN and Game Informer have pointed out that while the sheer scale of the "Frontier" is impressive, it often feels barren.
A major addition to traversal is the new motorcycle mechanic, allowing your Revenant Hunter to speed across the wasteland. While conceptually stylish and perfect for the game's edgy aesthetic, the vehicle controls have been described as "floaty" and akin to a "flimsy RC car" by some critics. Despite this, the ability to glide and traverse large gaps adds a new layer of verticality that separates it from other Bandai Namco soulslike 2026 releases.
Character Creator and Customization: The High Point
If there is one aspect receiving universal acclaim in every Code Vein 2 review, it is the character creation suite. The original game set a high bar, but the sequel vaults over it with an absurd level of detail. Players can tweak everything from granular hair physics to accessory placement, leading some reviewers to joke that the "true endgame" is spending hours in the creator menu before even fighting the first boss.
Beyond visual customization, the build variety remains a strong suit. The new "Formae" system, which replaces some of the traditional Gift mechanics, allows for more flexible combat styles. Whether you prefer heavy weapons or ichor-draining spellcasting, the Code Vein 2 character creator and build system ensure that your vampire feels uniquely yours. For players who love tinkering with stats and fashion, this alone might justify the entry price.
Performance Issues and Visual Consistency
Unfortunately, the transition to Unreal Engine 5 hasn't been entirely smooth. Technical performance is a recurring complaint in the Code Vein 2 review landscape. Reports of severe frame rate drops on PS5 and Xbox Series X are common, particularly during chaotic boss fights or when speeding through the open world. Visuals, too, have faced scrutiny; while some vistas are breathtaking, critics note a "muddy" quality to textures that makes the game look surprisingly dated in certain areas.
These technical hiccups are a significant factor keeping the game from ranking higher among the best soulslike games 2026. While patches are expected, the launch state suggests that the game's ambition may have outpaced its optimization time.
The Verdict: For Fans, Not Everyone
The narrative, centering on a time-travel mechanics where you alternate between the ruined present and a heroic past alongside your companion Lou, offers emotional highs that fans of the genre will appreciate. However, the repetitive dungeon design and lackluster enemy AI in the open world drag down the experience for general audiences.
Ultimately, Code Vein 2 is a stylish but messy sequel. It successfully doubles down on what made the first game great—style, customization, and anime melodrama—but stumbles in its attempt to modernize with an open-world format. If you can look past the jank and performance issues, there is a bloody good time to be had. But for those expecting a polished masterpiece to rival the genre's giants, you might want to wait for the first few stability patches.
