Summary
More than five years after their launches, the Soulslike gamesCode VeinandMortal Shellnow have sequels on the way, titledCode Vein 2andMortal Shell 2, respectively. BothCode VeinandMortal Shelldebuted during the previous console generation, but their sequels will be developed natively for the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
The2025 Summer Game Festhas just begun, but has already delivered a veritable truckload of exciting new game announcements and teases. The crop of trailers and reveals has been particularly good for fans of Soulslike games, with multiple new original titles announced for launch in 2025 and 2026. Even popular existing Soulslikes got a boost, such as when developer Neowiz announced the surprise launch of an expansion for its hitLies of Pduring the event.
The stream also brought with it a couple of unexpected sequels, in the form ofCode Vein 2andMortal Shell 2, both follow-ups to notable Soulslikes from the tail end of the previous console generation. BothCode Vein 2andMortal Shell 2appear to expand upon their predecessors' core concepts, adding new twists like time manipulation inCode Vein 2and deeper weapon design inMortal Shell 2. Developed by Bandai Namco,Code Veinwas a stylish and unusual Soulslike with multiple endingsand a distinctive, goth anime aesthetic, as well as some connections to Bandai Namco’sGod Eaterfranchise. Cold Symmetry’sMortal Shellpresented its own refinement of the Soulslike formula, with its own take on a grim, moody atmosphere and a combat system that revolves around mastering different “Shells” alongside an array of weapons.
Code Vein 2andMortal Shell 2Both Announced as Sequels to Notable Last-Generation Soulslikes
For its part,Code Vein 2leans even more heavily into its stylish anime aesthetic, featuring fashionable character designs that call to mindthe excellentCode Veincharacter creator feature. The trailer also teased the involvement of a new character named Lou, who can manipulate time. As with the original, players will fight alongside partner characters, making it a less lonely experience than the typical Soulslike game. There are also glimpses of driveable vehicles and intimidatingly large boss enemies.
Meanwhile,Mortal Shell 2leans even more heavily on its bleak, almost monochrome atmosphere. Though the firstMortal Shellplayed likeDark Souls,its sequel seems to emphasize brutal execution moves, as well as the presence of rapid-fire ranged weapons, perhaps as a way to set itself apart from its inspirations. Descriptions of the game also note that its combat is “unrestricted” by stamina, indicating that the sequel will stray further fromDark Souls' path when it launches in 2026.
With so many Soulslikes coming, fans of the genre will have plenty to look forward to. However, the increasingly crowded scene might also make for stiffer competition. Time and luck will likely determine ifCode Vein 2andMortal Shell 2can build on their originals' successes.
