The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct brought an unexpected surprise with the announcement of a third-party game by FromSoftware, titled "The Duskbloods." This game, set to launch in 2026 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, shares striking similarities with the PlayStation 4-exclusive "Bloodborne." In "The Duskbloods," players assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group transformed beyond humanity by unique blood, engaging in a fierce melee to become the "First Blood."
FromSoftware's press release confirmed that "The Duskbloods" is a PvPvE title with "online multiplayer at its core," allowing up to eight players to compete. Although reminiscent of "Bloodborne" with its themes of blood, guns, and machinery, it also draws parallels with the upcoming "Elden Ring Nightreign," incorporating PvP elements instead of solely co-op PvE. Despite the limited information provided, glimpses of terrifying beasts and bosses were teased, stirring a range of reactions among "Bloodborne" fans.
On platforms like Reddit, fans expressed their excitement and speculation. "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" exclaimed one user on the r/Bloodborne subreddit. Another suggested, "That game is 100% Bloodborne 2. I assume the name change is either because it's in a different setting, or because of Sony exclusivity." The sentiment that Nintendo might have taken matters into their own hands was echoed by another commenter: "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Dusk Bloods
12 Images
While "The Duskbloods" is a distinct game, its connections to "Bloodborne" are evident, leading fans to consider it a spiritual successor. Unlike the Souls games and "Elden Ring," which have expanded to other platforms, "Bloodborne" has remained exclusive to the PlayStation 4. This exclusivity, along with the absence of a PC port or sequel, has fueled long-standing fan desires for more.
However, excitement waned for some upon learning that "The Duskbloods" leans towards a battle royale-style PvPvE experience rather than the traditional single-player RPG format expected from FromSoftware. The game's exclusivity to the Nintendo Switch 2 also tempered enthusiasm for some fans, as seen in various online discussions.
More details about "The Duskbloods" are expected soon, with Nintendo set to release an interview with director Hidetaka Miyazaki on April 4. This interview will likely provide insights into the game's mechanics, the nature of its PvPvE elements, and whether it can satisfy the long-held hopes of "Bloodborne" enthusiasts.
For comprehensive coverage of all announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to explore our detailed recap of the event.
AnswerSee Results
