Exclusive Interview: CODE VEIN II Producer Keita Iizuka Reveals Exciting New Directions for the Sequel!

After a long six-year wait, Bandai Namco Entertainment thrilled fans by announcing CODE VEIN II at Summer Game Fest. Producer Keita Iizuka shared insights on this exciting sequel to the popular action RPG from 2019.

The original CODE VEIN stood out with its anime style, engaging vampire lore, and a unique buddy system. The sequel, however, promises a fresh narrative focused on time travel, with the tagline "bound by blood" hinting at a darker, richer adventure.

Unlike many sequels, CODE VEIN II starts with a new story. "It’s not a continuation but its own tale," Iizuka noted. This means new players can jump right in without needing to play the first game. Set in a post-apocalyptic world due to a disaster called the Resurgence, players will assume the role of a Revenant hunter, using vampire powers to thwart impending doom alongside a powerful vampire companion, Lou MagMell.

Iizuka emphasized the game’s different drama, showcasing the interactions between vampires and humans. The time-travel mechanic will allow players to explore vampire history, enriching the narrative of the human-vampire relationship.

Combat and Gameplay Updates

Combat builds on the original, introducing the “Vampiric Action” system. Players will alternate between weapon attacks and draining blood from enemies to fuel special abilities. While parrying remains a feature, CODE VEIN II emphasizes full character customization in combat styles, making each player’s experience unique.

The buddy system returns with enhancements based on fan feedback. Players can forge deeper connections with their companions, making battles and exploration more engaging. A solo play option is also available, but Iizuka warns that it may be more challenging.

Character Creation and Visual Enhancements

The character creation system is set for a significant upgrade, aiming for user-friendliness while allowing ample customization. Iizuka shared that fans will enjoy various options to craft their characters.

The sequel will showcase a darker tone and deeper vampire mythology. "These vampires have shaped human history, and we want to explore their lore further," Iizuka explained. Visual changes have also been made, refining the aesthetics while keeping the familiar style intact.

World Design and Exploration

The world will feature two distinct time periods. The present is a ruins-strewn landscape, while the past shows a time when humans and Revenants coexisted in a nearly intact world. Improved traversal options will aid exploration, including new mechanics for navigating dungeons and cities.

Learning from Feedback

Taking six years for development allowed the team to analyze player feedback thoroughly. Players loved the buddy system, but the team recognized areas for improvement. Enhancements to the interface and user experience are underway to welcome new players to the challenging Souls-like genre.

Cutting-Edge Technology

CODE VEIN II will be designed for current-generation consoles, harnessing new technology to create an immersive experience for players. Iizuka clarified that this sequel is entirely separate from the God Eater series, marking a new chapter for the franchise.

Despite the changes, the core feel of the gameplay remains faithful to the original.

The choice of Summer Game Fest for the announcement was strategic. As Iizuka expressed, it provides a significant platform to reconnect with fans and share exciting news. CODE VEIN II aims to balance familiarity and innovation, creating a compelling experience for both newcomers and veterans.

While no specific release date exists yet, the announcement suggests an exciting journey back into a rich world filled with intricate vampire lore and intense battles awaits fans.

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