Bandai Namco's new action RPG title, Code Vein, is scheduled for a 2018 roll-out and the release of new gameplay footage showcases more of what players can expect. Two distinct dungeons, the Ridge of the Frozen Souls and the City of Falling Flame, make an appearance and the video also demonstrates more clearly how the combat mechanics will work.

Set in an unnamed post-apocalyptic world, Code Vein sees the player taking on the role of a revenant (a vampire) that needs to consume blood to avoid becoming a creature called a "lost," while the game itself will use precise combat and challenging enemies to keep players engaged with the concept. On the face of it, Code Vein is setup similarly to Dark Souls and if it can live up to that standard the developers will be pleased, but the title will also be looking to forge its own position within the genre. Multiplayer has also been confirmed and will allow players to request and receive assistance, as well as communicate with others via emotes.

As can be seen in the video below, the HUD features quick access items and abilities, like the aforementioned Dark Souls, but Bandai Namco is certainly employing Code Vein's art style and ambiance to differentiate itself from its competitors.

The trailer also further highlights the unique selling point of Code Vein, it's AI companion assisted combat. First with the rifle-wielding Mia and then Yakumo, both of whom are available buddies within the game. The buddy system is there to add a different dynamic, but they do serve practical purposes other than damage assistance.

These characters are also there to provide a variety of commentary, alongside information on locations and creatures. Mia and Yakumo are two of five currently confirmed available buddy characters, although it is currently unclear how changing the buddy will work, and whether certain characters have to be locked in at certain points in the story.

Code Vein clearly wants to show that it is more than just an anime Dark Souls but response to the new video has been mixed, with some viewers stating that the combat looks as though it is too sluggish and lacking in dynamism. Only Bandai Namco knows whether it actually feels this way when playing the game, although the discrepancy between how Dark Souls feels to play and how it feels to watch, will certainly be cause for encouragement. With information on this title still coming out sporadically, there will inevitably be more gameplay in the near future before the titles eventual release.

Code Vein is scheduled to release sometime in 2018 for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.