"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but it's important to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive in to discover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and its innovative features.

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 developing their iconic single-player games, even as they venture into multiplayer territory. In a surprising move, they unveiled their upcoming title, The Duskbloods, as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This game, while rooted in FromSoftware's Soulslike aesthetics, introduces an online multiplayer PvPvE experience. This announcement comes alongside their other upcoming multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In an insightful post on Nintendo's new Creator's Voice blog on April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed concerns about the studio's direction. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware would not abandon their tradition of crafting single-player experiences. 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 shed light on the game's thematic focus on blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew parallels to vampires, he clarified that these characters would not embody the monstrous traits typically associated with vampirism.

The narrative revolves around the pursuit of "The First Blood," which emerges during the apocalyptic event known as "The Twilight of Humanity." This event unfolds across various times and locations, enriching the game's setting.

Miyazaki elaborated on the diverse 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." He explained that blood in The Duskbloods 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 unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed the availability of over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He noted, "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 central "hub," where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to eight players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, which primarily consist of character customization options.

Matches typically conclude with a last-player-standing format, though some may involve alternative victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating unique scenarios. Miyazaki explained, "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."

The game introduces "roles" that assign players special responsibilities and objectives. While some specifics remain under wraps, Miyazaki highlighted examples like the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where forming a bond with a partner yields unique rewards. He elaborated, "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 insights shared in Nintendo's Creator's Voice blog offer a glimpse into FromSoftware's ambitious plans for The Duskbloods. With more announcements expected in the future, this Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive is slated for release in 2026. Stay updated with the latest news on The Duskbloods by following our coverage below!