Following the huge surprise that was the first Code Vein, we now have the new title, Code Vein II, presented as a standalone sequel that not only expands the universe of its predecessor but also introduces a complete overhaul of its core gameplay through time travel mechanics. From a design perspective, the title attempts an ambitious synthesis: maintaining Bandai Namco's anime aesthetic while transitioning from the linear corridors of the first game to an open-world structure inspired by the architecture of Elden Ring. The result is a polarizing experience, capable of both dazzling with its narrative expansion and infuriating purists of the first **** of the first things that stands out is the depth of customization; you have many tools to make your character the ideal person with whom you want to embark on this adventure. Code Vein 2 has achieved a quantitative and qualitative evolution in its progression system, diversifying the arsenal more rigorously with light, heavy, and alternative weapons, and featuring attack patterns that surpass the technical complexity of the first installment. This, in turn, presupposes a clear tension in the combat philosophy. For less experienced players, the game positions itself as one of the most accessible Souls games, provided a technically viable build is managed. However, for veterans of the first Code Vein, this openness will represent a shift towards the Western market, sacrificing technical rigor for a style closer to open-world hack and **** transition to an open world has demanded poor graphical compromises. Frankly, it's a game with PS3-level graphics, but in HD. The developers' work is very poor; in fact, the cel-shading tries to blend seamlessly into real-world environments, resulting in a sense of a lack of integration between the two planes. Where they have significantly improved compared to the first game is in the writing. The characters are endearing and well-written, avoiding empty clichés. The use of time travel cleverly expands the universe, and the "True Ending" remains an epic challenge that perfectly concludes the narrative arc. Regarding fan service: it's still present but more restrained, a point some will appreciate for its maturity and others will criticize for feeling the influence of a "woke" fanbase softening the anime style. The title presents a substantial challenge for all of us who love the open world of Elden Ring, as it has an estimated 50 hours to reach the credits. The narrative structure relies on multiple endings, with the "True Ending" being the most demanding and satisfying, culminating in a final confrontation that coherently concludes the protagonist's **** music of Code Vein 2 is a true reflection of its identity crisis: brilliant in its narrative but diluted in its gameplay. In the cutscenes, the score reaches its peak, employing anime-gothic compositions that masterfully underscore the emotional weight of well-written characters, making the climax of the "true ending" an epic sonic experience.However, this brilliance fades in the open world. The transition to vaster environments has brought with it ambient music that feels generic and repetitive, losing the atmospheric oppression that defined the first game. This problem is exacerbated by the reuse of bosses, conveying that fighting the same enemy for the third time with the same musical theme reinforces the feeling of a lack of technical polish. In the end, the soundtrack feels tame, sacrificing the aggression of its roots as a God Eater spin-off in favor of a more conventional epic that, while functional, lacks the soul and risk of the **** conclusion, Code Vein II is a work of stark contrasts. While its narrative, characters, and build variety surpass the first installment, its technical execution and shift towards more generic action have created a rift among its most loyal fans. It's a game that shines in its world-building, but still requires systemic refinement to reach the excellence its universe promises. It's a brave but uneven sequel; its well-crafted cinematics and deep systems are positive aspects, but it stumbles in its graphics and suffers from an identity crisis that could alienate those seeking the rigor of pure Souls gameplay. It's a worthwhile 50-hour journey, but one that demands patience and an open mind to change. The game's greatest strength lies in its writing, with memorable and well-developed characters, and a highly satisfying ending. RATING 7.5/10

Not a True sequel. Enemy diversity is atrocious. It's been more than a month and still no infos from the studio about the censorship on multiple outfits and Jadwiga, nor the masciuline running animations on female characters. The fact we are forced to make a female character at least moderately muscular is annoying too, I'd like less muscular. Very disappointed as a big fan of Code Vein 1, I do not recommend.

This is already a very underrated game. I loved it! Same with the first which was AnimeSouls, and this is Elden Vein. Interesting story and great characters, excellent game-play, and neat world. I got the true ending - just need to keep going after "end", they make it obvious. It had some initial performance issues, but it's been patched and runs great.