CODE VEIN (2019)

Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Platforms: Windows
Genres: Action, RPG
Rating: 4.2 of 5, 61,997 player ratings
Typical playtime: about 30 hours
Where to get it: Steam

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The catalog in 3D

The same catalog has a room you can walk around in. The cat behind the counter is the AI Catbot, and they pick real games from it when you tell them what you feel like playing. Nothing is for sale, here or in there. Go in from here and this game is already out on the counter, with more like it waiting on the shelf next to it.

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How it feels

A punishing but rewarding action RPG where you methodically explore a ruined post-apocalyptic world alongside a partner, relying on careful combat and coordination to survive.

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What players say

Players praise the deep character creator and flexible Blood Code builds, but are split on the combat, which some call clunky and unbalanced, with parry input delays and multi-enemy ganks. The level design is a sore spot, especially the infamous Cathedral of Blood, while the story and soundtrack are highlights. Many say to pick it up on sale, and note the game has not received updates since 2020.

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