Code Vein offers a deep RPG experience but its build mechanics can be a little overwhelming for new players. Here are the best builds we’d recommend.

Code Vein was Bandai Namco’s answer to Dark Souls, but with vampires and in the style of a lush anime cartoon. The game is so much more than a mere Souls clone though and its character-building mechanics are surprisingly deep and intricate.

But like most RPGs worth sinking a hundred hours into, the mechanics can be confusing at times. The hardest part is understanding the game’s lingo and figuring out how to adapt your character to your own preferred playstyle.

While this all clicks in time, by then you may have committed to a character you regret. Here’s how to build a character that matches your style of play and one you’ll want to stick with until endgame.


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Code Vein builds characters
Bandai Namco
Some refer to Code Vein as Vampire Souls – This is no bad thing.

Understanding Code Vein’s mechanics

Before you can plan your build the first thing you’ll need to do is understand the game’s terminology. While combat is similar to other Souls-style games in terms of the basics, Code Vein has its own unique quirks and lingo.

Gifts, for example, is the term for the game’s Magic and Skills. This includes buffs, spells, and special moves that can be used in and out of combat. Skills use up Ichor, which is essentially the game’s version of mana/magic points and can be tracked in the bottom-right side of the screen. In some cases, Ichor is also used as ammo for certain skills.

Code Vein uses things called Blood Codes to let players create their own custom classes. Players start off with 3 basic Blood Codes, Fighter, Ranger, and Caster, but can gather more throughout the game. As an example, those looking to build a tank character can prioritize the Fighter Blood Code but can tailor this to their own style with others later.

The Fighter Blood Code is your typical melee style, while the Ranger focuses on the Bayonet weapon primarily. Naturally, the Caster blood code is designed to make the most use out of Gifts in combat. The game allows you to switch between Blood Codes on the fly, leveling them up as you see fit.

This allows the player to create their own individual builds but beware – flitting between too many means you’ll never really commit to or excel at any particular discipline. Therefore, it pays to choose a primary build path and tailor it as necessary. Basically, don’t become a jack of all trades and a master of none.

Code Vein builds gameplayCode Vein features some satisfying and gory combat.

Code Vein, Blood Veils

While armor and other wearable gear in Code Vein work like any other game, Blood Veils are a little different. Equipping a Blood Vale provides defense like any other piece of gear, but their main purpose is to provide buffs to Gifts.

They can be gathered throughout the game through chests, defeating enemies, or rewards for completing quests/chatting to NPCs. Blood Veils are helpful when it comes to bolstering a certain build which is why we’ve included them here.

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Remember, the below builds offer a foundation focused on Blood Codes, Blood Veils, and weapons/spells of choice. When it comes to gifts there are many that will work with each build, but too many to name them all per build type. Therefore, we’d recommend using Gifts that seem logical and complement your build choice. Or Gifts that naturally buff your personal style should you experiment with different sets.

Code-Vein-builds coverVampires are the good guys in this story.

Melee Builds

For those who want to get up close and personal – but with added extras.

BuildBlood CodeBlood VeilWeaponNotes
Immortal BladeIsis/FionnBlood Veil or GXL DefenderTwo-handed swordsCombat tank build
Queen’s GambitQueenslayerNoble SilverOne-handed swordsPowerful sword build that makes use of stun effects
Adrenaline RushScout, Queenslayer firstNoble SilverHalberdPowerful and fast melee build
Jenovas WrathQueenslayerNoble SilverBlazing ClawDPS build
Cerdeath’s Glass CannonQueenslayerNoble SilverArgent Wolf King’s BladeBurst damage build
Belial’s Blood LancerQueenslayerNoble SilverHalberdDamage/mobility combo build
Bloodletter BuildQueenslayer, Ranger firstNight Claw/Noble SilverThe Enduring CrimsonAlso the best dressed optionIvory
Queen’s HammerQueenslayerNoble SilverHuge HammerBash away
High DamageQueenslayerVenus ClawCrimson LongswordLevel sword mastery
Code Vein gameplayPlayers can tailor their vampire to their liking.

Ranger/Bayonet Builds

For those who want to pick their enemies off from a distance.

BuildBlood CodeBlood VeilWeaponNotes
Poppy ShotQueenslayerIvory GraceBayonetUse The Libertador for the most benefit
Gunner OrionOrionVenus ClawBrodiaeaGet from Lord of Thunder DLC
Vampire SniperHarmoniaIvory GraceBayonetUse The Libertador for the most benefit
Purge the HereticsScathachIvory GraceBayonetFlamethrower ability
Code Vein Vampires
Bandai Namco
Allies are an important part of Code Vein’s gameplay

Caster Builds

Those who prefer the wizarding way.

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BuildBlood CodeBlood VeilWeaponNotes
Dark MageHarmonia, Caster firstBlackblood LiberatorN/AAll-rounder mage build
Sword Spam SummonerQueen’s ThroatIvory Grace2x Sunset Sword DevourFast Casting
Venom MageDarkseekerSuicide SpurIcebloodFast Casting Dark Mage with Poison for Utility
Harmonia All or Nothing Boss KillerHarmoniaIvory GraceN/ASpell spammer build
Light Spell BarrageIsis/IshtarIvory Grace/Noble SilverDevour/IcebloodClose range light-based caster, with multiple setups

Support Builds

Builds to buff/support allies in combat.

BuildBlood CodeBlood VeilWeaponNotes
Frosty SupportEosNoble SilverIceblood/LibertadorDefensive buffs for survivability
Deliverance TankIshtarNoble SilverArgent Wolf King’s BladeTank Lethal Damage for Allies and Keep them in the Fight