The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but it's important to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive into the details of FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore its unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the creators of Elden Ring, have reassured their fans that they remain committed to producing their renowned single-player games, despite venturing into multiplayer projects. They recently unveiled The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This upcoming game introduces an online multiplayer PvPvE experience that retains the signature Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This announcement follows closely on the heels of another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In a recent post on Nintendo’s insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's direction. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player titles remains unwavering. Miyazaki stated, "As a side note, please allow me to address one thing. As previously mentioned, this is an online multiplayer title at its core, but this doesn’t mean that we as a company have decided to shift to a more multiplayer-focused direction with titles going forward." He further added, "The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring was also announced, and we still intend to actively develop single-player focused games such as this that embrace our more traditional style."
The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods
Miyazaki provided insights into the game's characters and setting, which revolve around the concept of blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing parallels to vampires, Miyazaki clarified that these characters will not be portrayed as monstrous.
In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event spanning various times and places.
Discussing the game's setting, Miyazaki noted, "There are more traditional Gothic- or Victorian-style maps as well as those depicting the closing years of the early modern period, like the one glimpsed in the trailer with the train running through it." He explained that blood in the game serves as a symbol, representing the game's themes of history, power, fate, and transcending human limitations.
Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer
The Duskbloods' trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed the availability of over a dozen characters for players to choose and customize. He remarked, "I think there are a lot of unique elements to the character designs and the weapons they use, so hopefully players can find one or two favorites among them."
Players begin their journey at a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions, which support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily character customizations.
Matches typically conclude with the last player standing, though some may feature alternative victory conditions such as defeating a powerful boss or facing unique challenges. Miyazaki elaborated, "Regardless of whether it’s PvP or PvE, the idea is to provide players with an experience that allows them to learn and hone their skills as they play. We’ve therefore designed the PvE boss encounters to present a tough challenge and a sense of accomplishment upon defeating them."
Additionally, the game will incorporate "roles" with specific responsibilities and objectives, though full details are pending. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players seek and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where players find a partner to bond with for special rewards. Miyazaki explained, "Roles can be assigned to any character via blood customization, allowing players to enjoy role-playing in a literal sense and hopefully adding to the drama of these engagements."
The insights from Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog offer a glimpse into FromSoftware's ambitious plans for The Duskbloods. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, is set to launch in 2026. Stay updated with the latest news on the game by checking out our article below!
