Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server difficulties, preventing many players from participating. IGN staff involved reported severe server issues, rendering the game inaccessible for the first hour.
The problems were so extensive that FromSoftware issued a public apology, acknowledging the server congestion preventing matchmaking. While they apologized, they encouraged players to retry after some time.
Adding to the frustration, the network test's availability is limited to five three-hour windows between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The schedule is as follows:
Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Schedule:
- February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
- February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
- February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
Bandai Namco describes the test as a "preliminary verification" to assess online functionality and performance. They expressed hope for player cooperation to improve the game.
While it's preferable that these server issues arise now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test have expressed disappointment. Future sessions are hoped to run more smoothly.
Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a parallel world to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three-player teams to battle "new terrors," explore a dynamic map, overcome challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle.
IGN previously previewed Elden Ring Nightreign, describing it as a "propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedrun" evolution of Elden Ring's dungeon crawling. [Link to IGN's hands-on preview]
[Link to IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki]
Elden Ring Nightreign launches May 30th, 2025, priced at $40 across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.
