"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but don't get your hopes up—it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive into the details of FromSoftware's ambitious project, The Duskbloods, and explore its innovative 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 dedicated fanbase that they remain committed to crafting their renowned single-player experiences, even as they venture into multiplayer territories. During the latest Nintendo Direct on April 2, they unveiled their upcoming exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, The Duskbloods—an online multiplayer PvPvE game that retains the signature Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This announcement comes on the heels of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a detailed post on Nintendo’s new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the community's concerns. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer with their upcoming releases, FromSoftware will not abandon their roots in single-player game development.

Miyazaki clarified, "While The Duskbloods is fundamentally an online multiplayer title, this does not signal a shift in our focus towards multiplayer games exclusively. We are also excited to continue developing single-player focused titles, such as the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, which embodies our traditional style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki shed light on the game's central theme: blood. Players will step into the shoes of the "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities derived from a unique blood source. He drew parallels to vampires but stressed that these characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

The narrative revolves around the pursuit of "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an apocalyptic event that spans various times and locales.

Discussing the game's settings, Miyazaki noted, "The Duskbloods features a mix of Gothic and Victorian-style environments, alongside settings reminiscent of the early modern period, such as the train scene showcased in the trailer."

He further explained that blood in the game serves as a symbol, representing historical significance, the transfer of power, the weaving of destinies, and the transcendence of human limitations.

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The trailer for The Duskbloods showcased a diverse array of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with some level of customization available. He expressed, "The unique character designs and weaponry offer a variety of options, allowing players to find their favorites."

At the game's hub, players can select and customize their characters before diving into online multiplayer sessions, which can support up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically conclude when a single player remains standing, though alternative victory conditions exist, such as defeating a formidable boss or meeting specific challenges.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it's PvP or PvE, our goal is to create an experience that allows players to refine their skills through gameplay. The PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging, providing a sense of achievement when overcome."

He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, which assign players unique responsibilities and objectives. While details are still being finalized, Miyazaki provided examples like "Destined Rivals," where players must locate and defeat their designated rival, and "Destined Companion," where forming a bond with a specific partner yields special rewards.

He added, "Roles can be assigned through blood customization, enhancing the role-playing aspect and adding depth to player interactions."

The insights shared on Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog offer a glimpse into FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods. As the game is set to be a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, slated for release in 2026, fans can expect more announcements in the future. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest on The Duskbloods!