Summer Game Fest 2025 Officially Kicks Off with Exciting Announcements, Especially for Soulslike Game Enthusiasts
The event debuted with major titles taking the spotlight, particularly Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2 – sequels to two acclaimed action RPG franchises that made waves in the console gaming world previously.
After Over 5 Years Since Their Release, Code Vein and Mortal Shell Have Finally Been Confirmed for Sequels
Both sequels are being developed specifically for next-gen platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The revival of these franchises is not only a delightful surprise for fans but also showcases the strong resurgence of the Soulslike genre, which is experiencing a renaissance with a plethora of new titles scheduled for release in 2025-2026. Additionally, the title Lies of P made a notable appearance at the event, unveiling its “upcoming” DLC, Overture, which left the audience buzzing with excitement.
In part two, Code Vein 2 continues to explore its signature Gothic anime style, which remains a hallmark of the first game. The trailer showcased character designs that emphasize personalization – an aspect that has transformed the character creation process of Code Vein into a reality. A new character named Lou was introduced, who possesses time-manipulating abilities, opening up a more creative gameplay potential compared to its predecessor. The game appears to evolve towards a cooperative playstyle, enhancing the experience to be more distinct than traditional Soulslike games.
While Code Vein 2 leans into stylization and creativity, Mortal Shell 2 opts for a darker, grittier atmosphere. The initial build has already been praised for its atmospheric tension and intricate combat systems centered around the Shell mechanics, while the sequel promises to delve even deeper into this realm. According to reliable sources, Mortal Shell 2 will feature various immersive environments and high-stakes combat mechanics – key elements that have rarely appeared in previous Soulslike titles. Notably, the combat system is touted to be unrestricted by traditional mechanics, presenting a unique character-driven approach that contrasts with the defining traits of Dark Souls.
With a wide array of new Soulslike titles on the horizon, from entirely new IPs to familiar names making a comeback, fans of this genre have a lot to look forward to in the coming years. However, the current trend also poses considerable pressure on sequels like Code Vein 2 and Mortal Shell 2 – will they be able to surpass the successes of their predecessors, or will they be lost in the “crowded” competition?
