The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but don't mistake it for Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover 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 mastermind behind Elden Ring, reassures fans that their dedication to crafting signature single-player experiences akin to the critically acclaimed Soulslike series remains unwavering, even as they venture into multiplayer territories. They recently unveiled their upcoming title, The Duskbloods, an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This online multiplayer PvPvE game embraces the iconic Soulslike themes and aesthetics, surprising many as the studio also gears up for another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In the newly launched Creator’s Voice blog by Nintendo, posted on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their future projects. He clarified that despite the focus on multiplayer games like The Duskbloods, FromSoftware's commitment to single-player experiences remains strong.
Miyazaki stated, "It's important to note that while The Duskbloods is fundamentally an online multiplayer title, this does not signal a shift towards a predominantly multiplayer focus for our future titles." He further emphasized, "With the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, we reaffirm our dedication to developing single-player games that embody our traditional style."
The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods
Miyazaki delved into the game’s narrative and setting, centered around the theme of blood. Players will embody "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing parallels to vampirism, Miyazaki assured that these characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous vampires.
The game’s central quest revolves around the competition for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event signaling the end of human society and occurring across various times and places.
Miyazaki described the game's setting, saying, "Players will navigate through maps inspired by Gothic and Victorian eras, as well as scenes from the early modern period, such as the one featuring a train in our trailer."
In The Duskbloods, blood serves as a conceptual element rather than a mere visual of gore. Miyazaki explained, "Blood represents one of the game's core themes—it embodies history, conveys power, weaves fates, and marks those who have transcended their human limitations."
Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer
The Duskbloods' trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with options for customization. He noted, "The character designs and their weaponry offer unique elements, and I hope players find their favorites among them."
Players begin their journey in a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. After matches, players return to the hub to claim rewards, primarily character customization items.
Matches typically end when one player remains standing, though some scenarios may have different victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating special challenges.
Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it's PvP or PvE, our goal is to provide an experience that allows players to learn and refine their skills. PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging, offering a sense of achievement upon victory."
He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, which come with specific responsibilities and objectives. While still in development, Miyazaki gave examples like "Destined Rivals," where players must seek out and defeat their designated rival, and "Destined Companion," where forming a bond with a chosen partner leads to special rewards.
Miyazaki concluded, "Roles can be assigned through blood customization, enabling players to engage in role-playing in the truest sense and enhancing the drama of their interactions."
The insights shared in Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog shed light on FromSoftware’s ambitious project for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, is slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest on this exciting new title!
