The Duskbloods will have players embodying the role of a Bloodsworn, yet it's important to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and the unique features it brings to the table.
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 fans that they remain committed to crafting their renowned single-player experiences, akin to the critically acclaimed Soulslike games. This commitment stands firm even as they venture into multiplayer territories with their latest announcement. During the April 2 Nintendo Direct, they unveiled The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2 that embraces an online multiplayer PvPvE format while maintaining the signature Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This comes as a surprise, especially with another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign, on the horizon.
In a detailed post on Nintendo’s new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed these developments. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer with their upcoming titles, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player games 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 clarified, "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 shared insights into the game’s narrative and setting, highlighting the central theme of blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing parallels to vampirism, Miyazaki noted that the characters would not embody the typical horror elements associated with vampires.
The Bloodsworn are in pursuit of "The First Blood," which emerges only during "The Twilight of Humanity," a cataclysmic event that unfolds across various times and locations.
Miyazaki elaborated on the game’s settings, mentioning, "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."
In The Duskbloods, blood serves as a conceptual element rather than a mere representation of gore. 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 trailer for The Duskbloods showcased a diverse array of characters, each boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players would have over a dozen characters to choose from, with options for customization. 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 diving into the online multiplayer mode, which supports up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily used for further character customization.
Matches typically conclude when only one player remains standing, though certain scenarios may present different victory conditions. Players might need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other 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."
He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, where players can take on specific responsibilities and objectives. While some details are still under wraps, Miyazaki offered examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players seek out a partner to form a bond and unlock special 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 Creator’s Voice blog post offered valuable insights into FromSoftware’s plans for The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive slated for release in 2026. As further announcements are expected, stay tuned to our articles for the latest updates on this exciting new title!
