The Duskbloods will have players embodying the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and its unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the creators behind Elden Ring, has reassured fans of their commitment to crafting their renowned single-player experiences, even amidst their ventures into multiplayer gaming. In a surprising move, they unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This upcoming title, exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, is an online multiplayer PvPvE game that retains the signature Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This announcement coincides with another multiplayer title in development, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In an insightful post on Nintendo's new Creator’s Voice blog dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed concerns about the studio's direction. He clarified, "Despite our focus on multiplayer with upcoming titles, FromSoftware remains dedicated to producing our traditional single-player focused games." Miyazaki further emphasized this commitment by mentioning the announced Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, underscoring their ongoing dedication to single-player titles.
The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods
Miyazaki shed light on the game’s thematic core, which revolves around the concept of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While drawing parallels to vampires, Miyazaki made it clear that these characters would not be portrayed as traditional monsters.
The narrative of The Duskbloods centers around the pursuit of "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event signaling the end of human civilization. This phenomenon occurs across various times and places within the game.
Miyazaki described the game's setting as encompassing traditional Gothic and Victorian-inspired maps, as well as scenes from the closing years of the early modern period, such as a train running through a landscape seen in the trailer.
He elaborated on the symbolic use of blood in the game, stating, "Blood represents a central theme in The Duskbloods—it embodies history, power, fate, and the transcendence of human limitations."
Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer
The Duskbloods' trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed the game will offer over a dozen characters, with some degree of customization available. He expressed, "The character designs and their weaponry are unique, offering players the chance to find their favorites."
At the game's outset, players congregate at a "hub" to select and customize their characters before diving into online multiplayer sessions, accommodating up to 8 players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, predominantly in the form of character customization options.
Matches typically conclude with a last-player-standing scenario, though some may feature alternative victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating special circumstances.
Miyazaki detailed, "Our goal is to provide a learning experience through both PvP and PvE, where players can improve their skills. PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging, offering a rewarding sense of achievement upon victory."
He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, where players take on specific responsibilities and objectives. While specifics are still being refined, examples include "Destined Rivals," requiring players to hunt down and defeat their rivals, and "Destined Companion," where players must find and bond with a partner to unlock special rewards.
Miyazaki added, "Roles can be tailored through blood customization, allowing for a deeper role-playing experience and enhancing the drama of player interactions."
The Creator’s Voice has provided valuable insights into FromSoftware’s upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch in 2026. Stay updated with the latest on this intriguing title by checking out our dedicated article below!
