I’ll admit, as someone who’s built a long-standing appreciation for Soulslike games, I wasn’t expecting much from Code Vein 2. The original Code Vein, with its striking anime-inspired visuals and post-apocalyptic setting, largely passed me by when it came out in 2019. I tend to be a purist, drawn to the particular blend of atmospheric world-building, cryptic lore, and tightly tuned combat that FromSoftware nails so consistently. Without that exact mix, I usually have trouble getting invested.
Yet, after spending several hours with Code Vein 2 recently, I’ve found myself pleasantly surprised. The sequel carves out its own space instead of trying to imitate the familiar Souls formula too closely. There’s a distinct style and rhythm here, one that manages to balance challenging combat with a more approachable, character-driven experience. The world still carries that melancholy undertone, but it’s delivered with a fresh visual flair and a bit more narrative clarity than its predecessor.
I wasn’t expecting the game to capture my attention, but it did, and in a way that feels both respectful of what Soulslike fans appreciate and willing to take some interesting risks. Code Vein 2 isn’t just a pale imitation; it’s a game with its own voice, and I’m glad I gave it a chance.
Source: eurogamer.net
