Code Vein 2: Weapon and Armor Upgrade Guide

Code Vein 2 stands out with its unique blend of urban design, post-apocalyptic vibes, and dark Victorian fantasy featuring rapiers and flintlock muskets. The atmosphere is deepened by a complex, multilayered story with intertwining timelines. In this guide, we’ll break down how to upgrade your weapons and armor, go over the properties of each weapon type, and help you understand the gear progression mechanics for your hero.

Formae are special active skills for dungeons and weapons. This system serves as the game’s version of magic. Abilities consume ichor whenever your character uses a special move. Formae work regardless of what your character is wearing, but they’re still important to consider when building your setup.

The game features around a hundred different weapons. Each weapon comes with unique stats and properties, serving specific roles and purposes. So, it’s important to understand every weapon type first:

It’s important to remember that even weapons of the same type in Code Vein 2 can differ not just in stats and features, but also in how they behave in battle. For example, one-handed swords have different attack animations, types, and timing. So before you invest in upgrading any weapon, make sure it fits your build and playstyle.

All upgrades can be done through Jadwiga, as well as with the help of followers you’ll find in every location. To enhance your weapons, you’ll need special Tender Crimson Stones of various levels. You can find these materials out in the open world, buy them from merchants, or get them as drops from enemies.

To upgrade a weapon, you need stones of a specific level. For example, to take a sword from grade five to six, you’ll need two level-three crimson stones. Upgrade your gear wisely, because Grand Crimson Stones only become available at the end of the game.

Endgame materials are limited to a single playthrough. You won’t be able to max out every weapon, so if you want to fully upgrade more gear, you’ll need to start a new game. That’s why it makes sense to decide on your build early, ideally right after the prologue.

There’s no traditional armor here—no helmets, chestplates, bracers, or greaves. Instead, you’ll use protective suits called Jails. These are used to drain monsters and fill your ichor. Jails have stats that complement your build, along with effects like reduced damage taken or resistance to stun. They also come with active abilities; for example, the starter Jail can unleash a massive claw that hits enemies.

Jails are upgraded just like weapons—up to level 20. You’ll need Pure Platinum for most upgrades, and an Immaculate Platinum Block for the final enhancement. Upgrading your suit gives a big boost to your build, and most importantly, at level 11 you unlock a second weapon slot.

Without Jadwiga the blacksmith and her assistants, you won’t be able to put together a strong build. In the forge, you can modify your gear—add new effects and raise its level. At the followers, you can buy Customer Tokens to expand the shop’s inventory, which lets you purchase more stones and platinum.