Code Vein: Anime Souls-like With Deep Character Customization and an Intriguing Vampire Story!

For those craving a challenging action RPG experience with a dash of anime aesthetics, look no further than Code Vein. Developed by Bandai Namco Studios and released in 2019 for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, this game beautifully blends the unforgiving combat mechanics reminiscent of FromSoftware’s Soulsborne series with a captivating story set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by mysterious cataclysms.
Code Vein plunges players into a dystopian future where vampires known as Revenants struggle for survival. These Revenants are cursed with bloodlust and a debilitating affliction known as “Blood Veils,” which grants them superhuman abilities but also threatens to consume their humanity entirely. The game revolves around your journey as a newly awakened Revenant, tasked with uncovering the secrets of this desolate world while battling monstrous Lost – twisted creatures corrupted by the Blood Code – and forging alliances with other survivors.
One of the most striking aspects of Code Vein is its deep character customization system. You can choose from a wide array of pre-designed characters or create your own unique Revenant using a detailed customization suite. This allows you to tweak everything from facial features and hairstyles to body proportions and clothing styles. Beyond appearances, you also get to customize your combat style by choosing from a variety of Blood Codes - essentially classes that grant access to specific weapons, Gifts (special abilities), and stats.
This intricate system encourages experimentation and allows players to tailor their experience to their preferences. Want to be a nimble swordfighter specializing in quick strikes? Choose the “Hunter” Blood Code. Prefer to unleash devastating magic from afar? The “Carol” Blood Code might be more your style. This flexibility makes each playthrough feel unique, catering to both veteran Souls-like players and newcomers looking for a more accessible experience.
Combat: A Dance of Precision and Aggression
Code Vein’s combat system stays true to its Souls-like inspirations, demanding precision timing, strategic positioning, and an understanding of enemy attack patterns. Unlike the unforgiving one-hit deaths often associated with the genre, Code Vein introduces a “Drain Attack” mechanic that allows you to recover health by attacking enemies. This system adds a layer of risk-reward gameplay, encouraging players to be more aggressive while still punishing reckless behavior.
Mastering combat in Code Vein requires understanding the various weapon types and their strengths and weaknesses. Swords offer balanced versatility, Axes excel at breaking through enemy defenses, Bayonets boast impressive reach, and Spears provide exceptional counter-attacking potential. Each weapon type comes with unique attack combos and special moves, adding depth to the combat system and encouraging players to experiment and find their preferred style.
Beyond weapons, Gifts – special abilities tied to Blood Codes – play a crucial role in shaping your combat approach. These Gifts can range from powerful offensive spells like fireballs or ice shards to defensive buffs that increase your resilience or healing abilities. Combining Gifts with weapon attacks allows for creative and devastating combos, further emphasizing the game’s focus on customization and personal expression.
Table: Sample Blood Codes & Associated Abilities
Blood Code | Weapon Type Preference | Notable Gifts |
---|---|---|
Hunter | Swords | Ichor Parasite (Regenerate HP), Blood Veil Enhancement (Increased Attack Power) |
Ranger | Spears | Blood Shot (Ranged Damage), Phantom Assault (Dash Attack) |
Prometheus | Axes | Blazing Heat Wave (AoE Fire Damage), Iron Will (Damage Reduction) |
Narrative and Worldbuilding: A Vampire Tale With a Twist
Code Vein’s narrative shines through its engaging characters and a world steeped in mystery and intrigue. As you journey through the ruined landscape, you encounter a diverse cast of Revenants – each with their own backstories, motivations, and struggles. Forging bonds with these companions is essential to survival, as they offer invaluable support during combat and provide crucial insights into the world’s lore.
The story unfolds gradually through exploration, dialogue interactions, and cryptic environmental storytelling. You uncover fragments of the past, piecing together the events that led to the cataclysm and learning more about the enigmatic Blood Codes and their connection to humanity’s fate. While Code Vein embraces many tropes common to vampire fiction – immortality, bloodlust, and a struggle for power – it also introduces fresh twists and perspectives, exploring themes of loss, identity, and the enduring hope for redemption.
Visual Presentation: A Stylized Blend of Anime Aesthetics and Dark Fantasy
Code Vein’s art style blends striking anime aesthetics with a gothic-inspired dark fantasy setting. Character designs are vibrant and detailed, reflecting their unique personalities and backstories. The environments are hauntingly beautiful, juxtaposing crumbling ruins with overgrown vegetation and ethereal landscapes bathed in otherworldly light.
The soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere, featuring a mix of soaring orchestral scores, intense battle themes, and melancholic melodies that evoke both hope and despair. While Code Vein’s technical presentation may not push the boundaries of graphical fidelity compared to some modern AAA titles, its distinct art style and atmospheric worldbuilding create a truly memorable visual experience.
Final Verdict: An Engaging and Challenging Anime RPG Experience
Code Vein is a worthy addition to any RPG enthusiast’s library, offering a compelling blend of challenging combat, deep character customization, and an intriguing vampire story. While its difficulty may prove frustrating for newcomers, the game’s rewarding gameplay loop, captivating narrative, and unique aesthetic make it a standout experience in the genre.
If you’re looking for a Souls-like RPG with a distinct anime flair and a story that will keep you hooked until the very end, Code Vein is undoubtedly worth diving into.