The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but it's important to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to discover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore its unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the studio behind Elden Ring, reassures its fanbase that it remains committed to crafting their iconic single-player experiences, even as they venture into multiplayer territories. The studio recently unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer PvPvE title exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2. This announcement was a surprise, especially considering their upcoming multiplayer game, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In an insightful post on Nintendo's new blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite their focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player experiences 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 added, "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 delved into the game’s thematic focus on blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from a special type of blood. He likened these characters to vampires, though clarified they would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous beings.
The central narrative revolves around the quest for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," a cataclysmic event that unfolds across various timelines and locales.
Miyazaki described the game's settings, which include both traditional Gothic or Victorian landscapes and scenes from the early modern period, such as a train traversing through a world in its final days.
He emphasized that in The Duskbloods, blood serves as a conceptual element, symbolizing "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 Duskbloods' trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with options for customization. He expressed his hope that players would find favorites among the varied roster, highlighting the unique elements in their designs and weaponry.
The game features a "hub" where players initially gather to select and customize their characters before entering online multiplayer sessions that can accommodate up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, which primarily consist of character customization options.
Matches typically conclude with one surviving player, though there are scenarios where different victory conditions apply, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating through special 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. Although details are still being finalized, Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where forming a bond with a partner leads to special rewards.
He 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 provided crucial insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned to our site for the latest updates on this highly anticipated game!
