2 Jaw-Dropping New Soulslike Sequels Revealed at Summer Game Fest

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Summary

  • Code Vein and Mortal Shell are getting sequels, Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2, developed for PS5, Xbox, and PC.
  • Code Vein 2 focuses on stylish anime aesthetics and time manipulation, while Mortal Shell 2 emphasizes brutal combat and ranged weapons.
  • Soulslike games were well-represented at Summer Game Fest 2025.

Approximately six years following their initial releases, the Soulslike games “Code Vein” and “Mortal Shell” are now set to have follow-ups, labeled as “Code Vein 2” and “Mortal Shell 2” respectively. Both “Code Vein” and “Mortal Shell” were initially introduced during the last console generation, however, their sequels will be designed specifically for the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and personal computers.

The 2025 Summer Game Festival is now underway, and it’s already overflowing with intriguing new game announcements and previews. The assortment of trailers and unveilings has been especially enticing for enthusiasts of Soulslike games, as several original titles slated for release in 2025 and 2026 were announced. Notably, existing favorites like the hit game Lies of P also received a significant boost, when its developer Neowiz unexpectedly announced the launch of an expansion pack during the event.

The stream unveiled not one but two surprise continuations: Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2, successors to popular Soulslikes from the latter part of the last console era. Both Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2 seem to build upon their original ideas, introducing fresh elements such as time manipulation in Code Vein 2 and more intricate weapon design in Mortal Shell 2. Developed by Bandai Namco, Code Vein was a unique and visually striking Soulslike featuring multiple endings and a gothic anime style, with ties to the God Eater series. On the other hand, Mortal Shell by Cold Symmetry offers its own refinement of the Soulslike genre, with its own interpretation of a somber, atmospheric setting and a combat system centered around mastering various “Shells” along with an assortment of weapons.

Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2 Both Announced as Sequels to Notable Last-Generation Soulslikes

In terms of its style, Code Vein 2 seems to amplify its captivating anime visuals, showcasing stylish character designs reminiscent of the outstanding character creation feature in the original Code Vein. The trailer hinted at the inclusion of a novel character named Lou, who possesses the ability to control time. Similar to the first installment, players will team up with companion characters, providing a less isolating adventure compared to most Soulslike games. Furthermore, there are brief glimpses of drivable vehicles and colossal boss enemies.

As for the upcoming game, Mortal Shell 2, it delves deeper into a somber, almost black-and-white ambiance. While the original Mortal Shell bore resemblance to Dark Souls, its successor appears to focus on gruesome execution techniques and quick-firing ranged weapons, possibly distinguishing itself from its influences. The game is also said to have “unrestricted” combat, hinting that it will deviate more from the Dark Souls formula when it releases in 2026.

As numerous Souls-like games emerge, enthusiasts of the genre are in for a treat with an abundance of options to anticipate. Yet, this bustling environment could also lead to more intense competition. Whether Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2 will be able to expand upon their predecessors’ accomplishments depends on both time and fortune.

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2025-06-07 18:15