The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore the game's unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the masterminds behind Elden Ring, have reassured their fanbase that they will continue to craft their renowned single-player experiences, even as they venture into multiplayer territories. In a surprising move, they unveiled their next title, The Duskbloods, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This game, exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, dives into online multiplayer PvPvE while maintaining the iconic Soulslike atmosphere. This announcement comes amidst news of another multiplayer endeavor, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In a revealing entry on Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog on April 4, FromSoftware's Director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, shed light on their upcoming projects. He was quick to clarify that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware's commitment 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 emphasized, "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 delved into the game's thematic essence, centered around the concept of blood. Players will embody the "Bloodsworn," members of an elite group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While drawing comparisons to vampires, Miyazaki clarified that these characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.
The narrative revolves around the quest for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an apocalyptic event spanning various eras and locales.
The game's settings will range from Gothic and Victorian landscapes to scenes reminiscent of the early modern period, including a striking scene with a train featured in the trailer.
Miyazaki explained, "Blood symbolizes one of the game’s key themes—the history it holds, the power it passes on, the fates it weaves and the marker of those who have surpassed the limitations of their own humanity."
Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer
The Duskbloods' trailer showcases a diverse roster of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed a selection of over a dozen characters, each offering customization options. He noted, "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 select and customize their character before diving into the online multiplayer mode, accommodating up to 8 players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, primarily character customization items.
Matches typically conclude with a last-player-standing scenario, though alternative victory conditions exist, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating special 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."
He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, which assign players specific duties and goals, though full details remain under wraps. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and vanquish their designated opponent, and the "Destined Companion" role, where forming a bond with a partner unlocks unique rewards.
Miyazaki further 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 shared on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog hint at more exciting revelations about The Duskbloods on the horizon. As a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, the game is slated for a 2026 release. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our dedicated coverage below!
