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| Key art from the CODE VEIN II overview trailer highlighting the game’s combat style and atmosphere. |
By Jon Scarr
Bandai Namco has released a new overview trailer for CODE VEIN II, offering a closer look at how combat, character progression, and the game’s new Partner System will work ahead of its January 30, 2026 launch.
The trailer focuses on gameplay, breaking down how players will fight, customize their characters, and approach encounters. Alongside the trailer, Bandai Namco also confirmed that a free Character Creator Demo will arrive on January 23, allowing you to carry their created characters into the full game.
Combat Expands With New Systems and More Player Control
Combat in CODE VEIN II builds on the foundation of the original while adding more flexibility and decision-making during fights. The updated system revolves around Drain Attacks, which extract Ichor, the resource used to power special abilities and Formae.
Formae are split into multiple types, giving players more control over how encounters play out. Weapon Formae enhance attacks and add bonuses, Bequeathed Formae summon unique weapons for heavy damage, and Defensive Formae introduce new blocking and counter options. Together, they allow players to shift between aggressive and defensive styles depending on the situation.
Jails return as core equipment and now play a larger role in shaping builds. These back-mounted artifacts modify stats, influence Drain Attacks, and provide situational advantages, making loadout choices more meaningful than before.
The Partner System Adds Risk and Strategy
The new Partner System is one of the bigger changes highlighted in the trailer. Companions can assist in combat and even revive the player using a mechanic called Restorative Offering.
There is a trade-off, though. After reviving the player, partners enter a cooldown period where they are unable to assist, forcing players to decide when it is worth using the ability. It adds a layer of risk that fits the game’s heavier focus on survival and resource management.
Weapon variety has also expanded, with Twin Blades and Rune Blades joining returning options like the Bayonet, Halberd, Hammer, and Greatsword. These weapons pair with the Blood Code system, allowing players to swap builds and abilities as they progress.
Character Creator Demo Arrives January 23
Ahead of launch, Bandai Namco will release a free CODE VEIN II Character Creator Demo on January 23. The demo allows players to create and save up to 64 characters, all of which can be transferred directly into the full game.
The creator offers deep customization options, including body type, facial structure, hair, accessories, and makeup. Players can also view their characters in different lighting environments at the MagMell Institute and use Photo Mode to capture screenshots.
For fans who enjoy spending time fine-tuning their characters, the demo gives a chance to experiment without pressure before the full release.
A Familiar Foundation With More Room to Experiment
From what the trailer shows, CODE VEIN II isn’t trying to reinvent the series. Instead, it looks like it’s building on what already worked and giving players more ways to approach fights. Combat looks more flexible, partners feel more involved, and there’s clearly more room to shape how your character plays from encounter to encounter.
Between the new Formae options, time-based mechanics, and expanded build system, the sequel feels more open to experimentation. You can try different setups, switch tactics when something isn’t working, and adjust your playstyle without feeling locked into one path.
CODE VEIN II launches January 30, 2026, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
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