The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper into FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore the game's intriguing features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the masterminds behind Elden Ring, have reassured their fanbase that they will continue to craft their iconic single-player experiences, much like their celebrated Soulslike titles. This commitment comes despite their foray into multiplayer gaming with upcoming projects. One such project, The Duskbloods, was recently unveiled as an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the Nintendo Direct on April 2. This online multiplayer PvPvE game retains the signature Soulslike themes and aesthetics, surprising many as FromSoftware also gears up for another multiplayer venture, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In an insightful post on Nintendo's new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the community's concerns. He emphasized that despite the back-to-back multiplayer game announcements, FromSoftware remains dedicated to their traditional single-player focused titles.
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 characters and setting, which revolve around the theme of blood. Players will embody "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew parallels to vampires, he clarified that these characters won't be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.
In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," a coveted prize that emerges only during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event that spans across different eras and locations.
Discussing the game's setting, Miyazaki noted, "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 further elaborated on the role of blood within the game, saying, "Blood symbolizes one of the game’s key themes—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 boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players can choose from over a dozen characters, with some customization options available. He remarked, "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."
At the outset, players convene at a "hub" where they can select and customize their characters before venturing into online multiplayer, which supports up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily in the form of character customization options.
These matches typically culminate with one player standing victorious, though alternative victory conditions exist. Players may also need to defeat formidable bosses or navigate other unique challenges.
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."
He also introduced the concept of "roles" within the game, where players can assume special responsibilities and objectives. While specifics are still under wraps, 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 yields special 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 Creator’s Voice provided invaluable insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch in 2026. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest on this exciting game!
