Although Code Vein introduced the concept of Revenants (dead humans who have been revived through the process of implanting a unique parasite), Code Vein II’s Japanese version decides to call them “Kyuuketsuki” (vampires) from the outset. According to director Hiroshi Yoshimura, the shift in naming ties into the sequel/soft reboot’s lore that is separate from the original game.
In a joint media interview, Yoshimura revealed that the decision to change the term “Revenant” to “Kyuuketsuki” for the Japanese version was made during the world-building process (source: Famitsu). Whereas the immortal humans in Code Vein were technically created via bioengineering, their counterparts in Code Vein II naturally exist within the world.
Since the English word “revenant” means “one that returns after death or a long absence,” Yoshimura stated that the term still fits the idea of what a Revenant is within the universe of Code Vein II. Given that “the bioengineered undead” is the first thing Japanese veteran players would probably think of when they heard the word “レヴナント” (revenant), and since the term itself doesn’t hold much meaning for the domestic audience, the devs felt that a different, more literal nuance would do a better job of getting the point across.
While there is no official confirmation as to whether subtitles for other languages have been adjusted when playing Code Vein II with Japanese audio, players can expect the spoken dialogue to reflect the word change (as is evidenced in the game’s trailers).
Code Vein II is set to release on January 29 for Windows (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
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