Code Vein II is coming: what newcomers should play first in Code Vein before the sequel (Jan 2026)

Excitement is mounting in the action RPG community: Code Vein II is set to launch on January 30, 2026. For newcomers curious about whether to dive into the original Code Vein now, the answer is a resounding yes. Playing the 2019 classic before the sequel’s arrival gives you narrative context, mechanical fluency, and a deeper appreciation of the evolving systems. This article outlines how best to experience Code Vein first—what order to play, which builds to test, and how your time now can enhance your sequel experience.

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What We Know About Code Vein II

When Bandai Namco officially unveiled Code Vein II at Summer Game Fest 2025, fans learned it’s headed to PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The teaser trailer and developer notes hinted at ambitious changes: a narrative that spans two eras (present and past), time-manipulation, and new gameplay mechanics such as Jails and Formae that extend combat depth. While the full extent of mechanics is still under wraps, early coverage suggests that core themes—draining blood, weapon customization, and partner bonds—remain central. With such promises, having a firm grasp of Code Vein’s strengths and quirks can give newcomers a head start when stepping into the sequel’s more polished battlefield.

Why Play the Original Code Vein First?

1. Understand the world & lore. Many characters, factions, and unresolved plot threads from Code Vein look likely to carry over into Code Vein II. Experiencing the original lets you form attachments and spot callbacks.
2. Master foundational systems. The original introduces you to Blood Codes, Gifts, Veils, and Drain mechanics—systems likely refined (not replaced) in the sequel.
3. Reduce friction in the sequel. By learning the flow of exploration, partner synergy, and progression in Code Vein, you’re less likely to feel lost when Code Vein II upgrades those systems.
4. Build anticipation through experiment. Use the original as your lab: test builds, optimize for your style, and note which features you hope the sequel pushes further.

Recommended Play Order & Priorities

1. Main Story Path

Focus first on the main route, taking on Successor bosses to progress the central narrative. However, don’t rush—Code Vein rewards thorough exploration and ritual cleanup: before each Successor fight, aim to restore all Vestiges in that area to unlock better endings and bonus content. Always balance forward momentum with backtracking to catch missed content.

2. DLC & Optional Content Priority

Don’t jump into DLC too early. Prioritize finishing the base game, then tackle the three DLCs in descending story significance: Hellfire Knight, Frozen Empress, and Lord of Thunder. These expansions offer extra boss battles, gear, and replay value. Use them after the main story so they don’t spoil surprises or overlevel your base experience.

3. Best Blood Codes & Builds to Try

At key milestones, experiment with different Blood Codes to find what fits you:

• Lean physical or strength builds for melee lovers

• Try hybrid or magic-based builds (Gifts) to diversify

• Transfer mastered Gifts across Blood Codes to refine your set
  Don’t forget to carry a ranged / magic Gift in your bar—it gives you options when things get messy.

4. Companion Strategy & Co-op Use

Your AI partner plays a critical role. Use them to cover your build’s weaknesses, heal, or buff. In online co-op, your partner can help clear areas, but only if they’ve unlocked those areas themselves. Assistance is a bonus—not mandatory. Give priority to keeping your partner alive: neutral Gifts that share health or revive them are gold.

Tips & Tricks to Maximize Your Experience

• Always include at least one magic-type Gift in your loadout: it helps with ranged pressure or interrupting enemies.
• After defeating a boss, revisit earlier zones. New NPC dialogue, quests, or loot might open up.
• Smash destructible scenery and drop to lower paths—often hidden shortcuts or loot lie below.
• Use the combo-into-drain trick (press R1 + light attack mid combo) to surprise aggressive foes.

Transitioning to Code Vein II: What You’ll Carry Forward

• Lore & continuity: Recognizing characters, factions, and events from the original will enrich your sequel journey.
• Mechanics foundation: The sequel is likely to polish rather than discard Drain / Blood Code systems, so your experience transfers forward.
• Expect creative expansion: CV II already garners attention for its “over-the-top” character creator, with advanced customization teased.
• Muscle memory advantage: Knowing how Code Vein feels—its pacing, read timings, partner cues—gives you a leg up in a more polished sequel.

Conclusion

Playing Code Vein before jumping into Code Vein II isn’t just nostalgic — it’s strategic. You’ll earn lore insight, test builds, and refine your instincts. When Code Vein II launches in January 2026, you’ll arrive already primed, ready to dig into its new systems with confidence. Dive into the original, absorb its quirks, and stand prepared for what comes next.