For fans of the original 2019 cult classic, stepping into Code Vein II feels like returning to a familiar, blood-soaked home. Released this week on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, Bandai Namco’s latest action RPG doubles down on the anime-gothic aesthetic that made its predecessor a hit, while introducing a stunning new level of visual fidelity. After spending 40 hours battling through a world ravaged by the Luna Rapacis corruption, it’s clear that while Code Vein 2 refines the formula to a mirror sheen, it hesitates to rewrite the rulebook. For those seeking the best action RPGs of 2026, this sequel offers a stylish, accessible, yet distinctly safe evolution of the anime Soulslike genre.
The Luna Rapacis Threat: A Stunning New Apocalypse
The narrative stakes in Code Vein II are immediately higher. You play as a customized Revenant Hunter tasked with stopping the Luna Rapacis—a corruption turning the remaining vampires into mindless Horrors. The story takes a bold swing with its new time-travel mechanic, pairing you with a mysterious companion named Lou. Together, you leap 100 years into the past to alter the course of history.
This dual-timeline structure allows for some breathtaking environmental storytelling. The contrast between the ruined, industrial dystopian present and the slightly more intact (though still perilous) past is striking. The game’s graphical leap on the Code Vein II PS5 version is particularly noticeable here; particle effects during combat are mesmerizing, and the anime-style character models look sharper and more expressive than ever before. While some PC reviews have noted optimization struggles, the console experience feels tailored to highlight this visual polish, delivering a smooth frame rate that keeps the fast-paced combat fluid.
The 'Revival' Mechanic: Accessibility Meets Challenge
Perhaps the most talked-about addition in Code Vein 2 reviews is the new 'Revival' mechanic. In a genre known for its punishing difficulty, this system acts as a fascinating bridge for solo players. Your AI partners—who no longer have traditional health bars—can now revive you infinitely, provided they aren't on a cooldown from a previous rescue. This removes the frustration of constantly micromanaging your companion's health, allowing you to focus entirely on your own survival.
Some hardcore enthusiasts might argue this makes the game too forgiving, but in practice, it changes the tactical rhythm of boss fights. You can afford to be more aggressive, knowing you have a safety net, but once that net is used, you are vulnerable until your partner’s cooldown resets. It’s a smart evolution that keeps the adrenaline high without the 'Game Over' screen fatigue common in other anime Soulslike 2026 titles.
Combat and Progression: Playing It Safe
While the visuals and accessibility features are fresh, the core Code Vein 2 gameplay remains incredibly faithful to the original—perhaps to a fault. The Blood Code system returns, allowing you to switch classes on the fly, but veteran players will find the rhythm of combat virtually unchanged. You dodge, you parry, and you unleash flashy Drain Attacks to refill your Ichor.
New Toys: Jails and Motorcycle Forma
There are, however, new layers to the loadout. The introduction of 'Jails'—specialized equipment that interacts with the new 'Forma' abilities—adds some build variety. Furthermore, the open-world segments now feature the Motorcycle Forma, a magical vehicle that lets you traverse the wastelands with speed. It’s a thematic win that screams 'rule of cool,' even if the open-world activities themselves can feel a bit sparse compared to the dense, interconnected dungeons of genre giants.
Verdict: A Polished but Familiar Journey
Code Vein II is exactly what it promises to be: a bigger, prettier, and more user-friendly version of the game fans fell in love with seven years ago. It doesn't revolutionize the genre like some of the Bandai Namco reviews 2026 might have hoped, but it polishes the existing jagged edges into a gleaming gem. The addition of Lou’s time-travel narrative and the forgiving Revival mechanic make it an excellent entry point for newcomers, while the deep Blood Code customization remains a playground for min-maxers.
If you loved the first game’s mix of melodrama and masocore combat, this is an essential purchase. Just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel—it’s just happy to put some very stylish rims on it.
