Bandai Namco's Anime Souls-Like Returns with Time Manipulation Powers
Image: Bandai Namco Entertainment / YouTube
Code Vein II arrives on January 30, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Bandai Namco's latest action RPG picks up years after the original, introducing time manipulation mechanics and a revamped partner system that fundamentally changes how combat flows.
Before the full release, players can try the Character Creator Demo starting January 22 on PC and January 23 on consoles. Those who purchase the Deluxe, Ultimate, or Collector's editions get early access to the full game on January 27.
A New Story in a Collapsing World
Code Vein II introduces the Revenant Hunter, a new protagonist tasked with preventing the Resurgence, a cataclysmic event threatening to end the world. Unlike the first game's more contained narrative, the sequel spans multiple time periods thanks to a companion named Lou who can manipulate time itself.
This mechanic allows players to travel between past and present versions of environments, discovering how areas changed over time and using that knowledge to alter the present. Environmental puzzles and boss encounters will require understanding both timelines.
The mysterious Luna Rapacis corrupts beings into Horrors, the primary enemies players will face. The infection spreads across the frontier, transforming once-safe zones into deadly combat arenas.
Revamped Partner System
The original Code Vein was praised for its AI companion system, and the sequel expands on it significantly. The new Partner System offers two distinct combat modes:
Summoning Mode: Partners fight independently, drawing aggro and providing support during battles. They make their own tactical decisions and can execute combination attacks when positioned correctly.
Assimilation Mode: This new option merges your partner with the Revenant Hunter, boosting stats and unlocking powerful abilities. The tradeoff is losing the independent support, so players must decide when to sacrifice versatility for raw power.
Partners level up alongside the player and can be customized with their own Blood Codes and equipment loadouts.
Combat and Blood Codes
The Blood Code system returns, letting players swap between different ability sets tied to various playstyles. Drain attacks on enemies refill your Ichor gauge, which powers your active skills. Managing Ichor during extended fights remains central to the experience.
New Jail equipment provides unique passive effects and combat modifiers. These items drop from bosses and can dramatically alter build effectiveness.
The nine-minute overview trailer released earlier this month showed expanded weapon variety and faster combat animations compared to the original. Boss fights appear more aggressive, with multiple phases and environmental hazards adding complexity.
Character Creation
Code Vein's character creator was a highlight of the original, and the sequel builds on that foundation. The upcoming demo specifically showcases these tools, letting players experiment before launch.
Created characters carry over to the full game. Players who want to spend hours perfecting their Revenant Hunter's appearance can do so without cutting into their actual playtime.
Editions and Pricing
Bandai Namco offers multiple editions:
- Standard Edition: Base game
- Deluxe Edition: Base game plus Season Pass and early access
- Ultimate Edition: All Deluxe content plus additional cosmetics
- Collector's Edition: Physical extras including artbook and statue
Indian Steam pricing has not been officially announced but should appear on the store page closer to launch. Regional pricing typically makes Steam the most affordable option for Indian players.
What Fans of the Original Should Know
Code Vein II is positioned as a soft reboot. While set in the same universe, the new protagonist and setting mean players can jump in without finishing the first game. Returning players will recognize the aesthetic and core mechanics, but the time manipulation adds substantial new depth.
The January 22-23 Character Creator Demo offers risk-free exploration of the updated systems. With the full game arriving just days later on January 30, Indian players have a new action RPG to fill the post-holiday gaming calendar.
