I think there were things Code Vein did well, and other aspects where the game flopped. One of the areas the game flopped was the levels themselves. Many games from the Souls series (Bloodborne included) provide levels where you pop out at a very scenic view, and can often times actually see features of the world you are traveling through. It’s a facet of exploring that the Souls series pulls off very well. Code Vein’s levels are very maze-like, and often a chore to navigate. The Cathedral of Sacred Blood in particular was extremely painful. I must have used over 100 chemical lights to try and keep my bearings.
The storyline is actually compelling, and the way you learn more about each character, their background and their situation, by traversing their memories is done well. The characterization is pretty good; I felt like I actually knew the characters by the end of the game. The Souls series is kind of the opposite of this, done on purpose, to provide a feeling of vague mystery, so it was nice to see a Souls-type game with a little more clarification as to where the plot is heading and who the main players are.
I also liked the different blood codes in the game. There are lots and lots of different blood codes; I really didn’t get a chance to try them all. It adds a lot of flexibility and replayability to the game. On my first play through, I gravitated towards the ISIS blood code with a maxed out Nagimukuro Fortification +10 weapon and Imperial Raiment +10 armor. The sword packed a punch.
Overall, I enjoyed Code Vein. The story and play were enough to keep pushing through the maze-like levels. I think the story is set up well for a sequel too. What ARE the monsters that the red mist was keeping away? There is definitely more to the mystery, and I would gladly play a Code Vein 2 if it came out in the future.
