Code Vein II

 PlayStation 5
Metascore
70

Mixed or average reviews - based on 85 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 44 out of 85
  2. Mixed: 39 out of 85
  3. Negative: 2 out of 85
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  1. Critical Hits
    Jan 26, 2026
    45
    Code Vein II tries to evolve the “anime Souls-like,” but delivers a weak story and an overabundance of cutscenes. The combat offers solid builds and variety, yet suffers from stiff animations, repetitive enemies, and an open world that lacks incentives for exploration. Serious technical issues on PS5 hurt the experience, making it safer to wait for fixes before playing.
  2. Metro GameCentral
    Jan 29, 2026
    40
    An outdated and uninteresting Soulslike that takes an already flawed original and makes it even less compelling, with unengaging storytelling, bland visuals, and repetitive action.
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  1. 3DJuegos
    Jan 29, 2026
    This mix between JRPG and Soulslike worth your time even if it is not perfect at all. [Recommended]
  2. Kotaku
    Jan 29, 2026
    Code Vein II doesn’t just take a superficial anime aesthetic and use it as window dressing on a popular genre. Its story and charming cast elevate it to create a unique middle ground that will appeal to JRPG and Soulslike fans alike. It’s got its fair share of issues, such as the performance woes and boring enemy fodder design. Still, if you’re looking to ease into the Soulslike genre before hitting the big leagues, Code Vein II is worth spilling blood over.
  3. Polygon
    Jan 26, 2026
    Code Vein 2 is at its best when you can string together ridiculous combos and go all out with unique multifaceted builds you've customized yourself. It's a strength so at odds with the idea of Soulslikes — with their methodical combat and builds centered on one or two specific pieces of equipment — that I wonder why Bandai Namco didn't just abandon that mimicry and lean into what makes Code Vein distinct to begin with.
  5. The Escapist
    Jan 26, 2026
    On the whole, Code Vein 2 is far from a perfect game, but it is far from a bad one, too. This will not hit the same highs as Elden Ring or Dark Souls; however, perhaps it does not need to. As another in the burgeoning catalog of Soulslikes, it offers unique combat and plenty of panache while owning its imperfections and inspirations alike.