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Bandai Namco's latest attempt to graft its own spin onto the soulslike template lands on PS5 with a mixture of competence and conservatism. Code Vein 2 delivers combat that rewards timing and build choice, and a character‑customisation suite that encourages experimentation, but those strengths are repeatedly undermined by monotonous encounter design, uninspired environments and a story that struggles to generate momentum.
Combat and progression
The core combat loop is reliable: fast, weighty melee exchanges are bolstered by ranged Blood Arts and a selection of passive and active abilities. Parrying and evasion feel responsive on DualSense, and the game's systems accommodate a wide range of playstyles — from glass‑cannon spellcasters to slow, resilient bruisers. Progression through blood codes and skill trees offers meaningful choices, and weapon and skill synergies allow for distinctive builds that can keep late‑game encounters interesting.
Difficulty spikes are present but rarely feel unfair. Where the combat disappoints is in its repetition; enemy archetypes tend to be recycled across zones, and encounters more often hinge on stat checks than clever positioning or level design. Boss fights provide fleeting moments of excitement but too often revert to extended health‑bar wars rather than memorable set‑piece battles.
Presentation and performance
Visually, Code Vein 2 sits closer to competent generation‑port than showcase title. Character models are serviceable and the anime‑tinged aesthetic carries occasional flair, but environments lack the layered verticality and handcrafted nuance expected from top‑tier action RPGs. Textures and lighting sometimes feel dated, and many areas blend together over the course of a playthrough.
On PS5 the title benefits from brisk loading and generally steady performance. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers are used sparingly but effectively to accentuate attacks and certain abilities. Audio design is functional: combat sound effects land with satisfying thuds, while the score supports mood without rising to memorable heights.
Story, characters and co‑op
The narrative leans heavily on tropes from its genre without offering the same depth or intrigue. Character interactions and party banter provide intermittent charm, but the plot rarely coalesces into a compelling throughline. For players drawn primarily to social and roleplaying hooks, the title provides enough beats to keep interest but not enough to elevate the experience beyond mechanical enjoyment.
Co‑op options return and work as expected, smoothing out difficulty for those who prefer shared progression. Multiplayer integration is straightforward, though the best moments still come from solo experimentation with builds and tackle‑and‑retreat skirmishes.
Longevity and replayability
Endgame systems and build variety extend the lifespan for completionists. New Game+ and alternate blood codes incentivise further runs, but the incentive to replay is tempered by the sameness of later areas and enemy pools. Expect several dozen hours for a full first run, with added time for completionist pursuits.
Verdict
Code Vein 2 is a competent entry in the soulslike space that will satisfy players who prioritise combat customisation and grindable progression. The game falters when it comes to environmental variety, narrative drive and encounter design, which frequently reduce tense skirmishes to repetitive slog. Solid foundations are present, but the execution rarely achieves the finesse required to stand out among better‑executed peers.
- Pros: Responsive combat, deep build customisation, serviceable performance on PS5.
- Cons: Repetitive enemy and level design, lacklustre visuals in places, thin narrative momentum.
Score: 6/10
Final assessment: Code Vein 2 will appeal to players invested in build tinkering and blood‑driven combat loops, but those seeking a more varied and narratively compelling soulslike should temper expectations.