Code Vein 2: Announcement Trailer Unveiled at Summer Game Fest 2025

Bandai Namco kicked off Summer Game Fest 2025 with a bloody surprise: the Code Vein II announcement trailer, confirming a sequel to the 2019 anime-inspired Soulslike RPG. Set for release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, Code Vein II promises a time-bending narrative, refined combat, and a post-apocalyptic world where Revenants fight to save humanity. The trailer, dripping with gothic vibes and intense action, has sparked massive excitement among fans. Here’s everything you need to know about this thrilling reveal!

A Time-Spanning Gothic Adventure

Code Vein II dives deeper into its vampiric lore, set in a crumbling world where humanity’s remnants and Revenants face a new threat: the Luna Rapacis, a force turning Revenants into monstrous Horrors. Players take on the role of a Revenant Hunter, guided by a mysterious girl named Lou who can travel through time to rewrite history. The trailer teases a narrative spanning two eras, where choices shape the destinies of key characters and uncover hidden truths to save the future. With a darker, medieval fantasy aesthetic reminiscent of Bloodborne, the game blends anime character designs with a haunting, gothic atmosphere.

Revamped Combat and Deep Customization

The announcement trailer showcases dynamic melee combat, giant bosses, and a refined take on the original’s “Anime Souls” formula. Players drain blood from enemies to unleash powerful skills, using the series’ signature Blood Codes to customize combat styles. New weapons and equipment, called Jails, add strategic depth, while a revamped build system lets you tailor weapons and skills to your playstyle. The trailer hints at improved level design and smoother gameplay, addressing fan critiques of the first game’s clunky combat and repetitive maps, like the infamous Cathedral.

A standout feature is the Partner system, where allies fight alongside you with unique abilities and narrative ties. These companions enhance your skills and deepen the story, making every journey visually spectacular and emotionally gripping. Fans on X are already buzzing, with posts calling the trailer “hype” and cheering the return of the character creator, a highlight of the original game.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The reveal has ignited the Soulslike community, with Reddit and X posts reflecting a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Fans praise the first game’s story, music, and character creation but hope for better level design and less “jank” in combat. One X user screamed, “I’M IN TEARS AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA,” while Reddit threads debate the trailer’s softer art style and time-travel twist. Some worry it feels disconnected from the original’s lore, but others are thrilled for a fresh take, especially with promises of a more polished experience. Bandai Namco’s track record with the original, which sold 3 million copies, fuels confidence that Code Vein II could elevate the series.

Coming in 2026

Code Vein II is set to launch in 2026, giving Bandai Namco time to refine the game based on fan feedback. The trailer’s tagline, “If time were a weapon to wield, could you undo the sins of ruin?” sets a dramatic tone for what’s to come. With a robust character creator, deeper narrative, and enhanced gameplay, this sequel aims to stand out in a crowded 2026 Soulslike lineup, alongside titles like Mortal Shell II and Nioh 3. You can wishlist it now on Steam, PS5, or Xbox Series X|S to stay updated.

Are you ready to wield time in Code Vein 2?