Bandai Namco is returning to the world of Revenants with Code Vein II, and the latest previews suggest this isn't just a simple sequel. Developed as a standalone "Final Fantasy-style" story, it aims to lower the barrier for newcomers while introducing emotional time-travel mechanics that add a layer of tragic weight to its difficult boss encounters.
A Standalone Tale Across Time
Set in a world besieged by The Resurgence—a cataclysmic event that turns Revenants into mindless beasts Code Vein II follows a customizable hero and a friend with time-traveling abilities.
To save the present, you must travel 100 years into the past to aid legendary warriors before they fell. Crucially, the game is a standalone narrative.
You don't need to have finished the 2019 original to understand the plot, though returning fans will recognize the "anime maximalism" and the "Blood Code" system used to enhance the six core attributes like Strength, Mind, and Willpower.
Revamped Combat: Formae and Jails
Combat has seen significant depth added through the interaction between weapons, Formae, and Jails. In recent previews of the Sunken Pylon dungeon, seven weapon types were showcased, including the high-skill Rune Blades and the versatile Bayonet. Formae are weapon-specific active abilities that consume Ichor, while Jails (the replacement for the original's Blood Veils) are separate attacks—like the Hound or Reaper—specifically designed to drain Ichor from enemies to fuel your abilities.
The Partner System: Summon vs. Assimilation
The standout feature is how you interact with your past-era allies, such as the fallen hero Josée Anjou. As you build your bond, you gain Link Points (LP), which act as a shield that depletes before your actual health bar. You have two ways to utilize your partner: Summoning, where they fight alongside you as an NPC, or Assimilation, where you absorb their power to gain massive stat boosts for a solo challenge.
Key Game Systems at a Glance
| Feature | Description | Impact on Gameplay |
| Link Points (LP) | A secondary health bar derived from your bond with your partner. | Provides a "buffer" for players, making the genre more accessible. |
| Summon / Assimilate | Toggle between NPC help or a self-buff. | Allows players to switch playstyles between "co-op" and "solo" mid-run. |
| Time-Travel Hub | A motorcycle-accessible portal to the past. | Acts as the primary narrative engine and dungeon selector. |
| Jail Attacks | Visceral drain attacks (e.g., Hound, Ogre). | The primary way to manage Ichor resources during boss fights. |
The Heartbreak of Success
The game’s "emotional weight" is most evident in its boss design. After helping Josée Anjou in the past, you must return to the present to fight her corrupted, monstrous form. Mid-fight, these bosses may regain their memory and beg for a merciful end. It’s a poignant cycle that ensures every victory feels like both a triumph and a tragedy. Code Vein II is scheduled for release on January 30, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
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