One of the most intriguing announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was the reveal of a third-party game from FromSoftware titled *The Duskbloods*. This new title, slated for release worldwide in 2026 and exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, bears striking similarities to the beloved PlayStation 4 exclusive, *Bloodborne*.
In *The Duskbloods*, players assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group transformed beyond humanity by a unique blood. The game challenges players to engage in a brutal melee competition to become the "First Blood." According to a press release from FromSoftware, *The Duskbloods* is a PvPvE title with "online multiplayer at its core," allowing up to eight players to compete simultaneously. This setup suggests a mix of the visceral combat seen in *Bloodborne* and the multiplayer elements reminiscent of *Elden Ring Nightreign*, albeit with a focus on PvP rather than solely co-op PvE.
The teaser provided glimpses of terrifying beasts and bosses, fueling speculation among fans. On platforms like Reddit, particularly in the r/Bloodborne community, reactions have been varied and passionate. "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" exclaimed one user, while another speculated, "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."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Duskbloods
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While *The Duskbloods* is a distinct game, its thematic and mechanical echoes of *Bloodborne* have led many to view it as a spiritual successor. Unlike the Souls series and *Elden Ring*, which have seen releases on multiple platforms, *Bloodborne* has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive, fueling fan desires for a port, sequel, or any new content. One fan humorously noted, "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves," while another pointed out the exclusivity parallel, "Bloodborne was always an exclusive, this is on brand."
However, the announcement has also tempered some excitement, particularly with the revelation that *The Duskbloods* leans towards a battle royale-style PvPvE experience rather than the traditional single-player RPG expected from FromSoftware. Discussions on forums reflect a mix of enthusiasm and concern about the multiplayer focus and the game's exclusivity to the Nintendo Switch 2.
More details about *The Duskbloods* are expected soon, with an interview featuring director Hidetaka Miyazaki scheduled for April 4 on Nintendo's website. This interview is anticipated to clarify the game's mechanics, the nature of its PvPvE elements, and its potential to satisfy the long-held hopes of *Bloodborne* fans.
For comprehensive coverage of all announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out our detailed recap.
