"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players be a Bloodsworn, but no, it’s not Bloodborne 2. Delve into FromSoftware's exciting plans for The Duskbloods and discover the game's unique features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog

FromSoftware, renowned for their critically acclaimed Elden Ring, reassures fans that they will continue to craft their signature single-player games, despite their venture into multiplayer titles. The studio recently unveiled their upcoming exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, named The Duskbloods, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2. This online multiplayer PvPvE game embraces the Soulslike themes and aesthetics fans adore, yet it coexists with their upcoming multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a detailed post on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the studio’s direction. He emphasized that, despite the consecutive multiplayer projects, FromSoftware remains committed to developing their traditional single-player focused games.

Miyazaki stated, "While The Duskbloods is an online multiplayer title at its core, this does not indicate a shift towards a multiplayer-focused direction for our future titles. We are also excited about the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, and we continue to prioritize the development of single-player games that reflect our traditional style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki shared insights into The Duskbloods' characters and setting, which revolve around the concept of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew comparisons to vampires, he clarified that the Bloodsworn would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

In the game, the Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," which emerges at the end of human society during an event known as "The Twilight of Humanity," unfolding across various times and places.

Miyazaki described the game’s settings, saying, "The Duskbloods features a range of environments, from Gothic- or Victorian-style maps to scenes depicting the closing years of the early modern period, as seen in the trailer with a train."

He further explained the symbolic role of blood in the game, noting, "Blood represents one of the game’s central themes—it encapsulates history, transmits power, weaves fates, and marks those who transcend their human limitations."

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods’ trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players can choose from over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He remarked, "The character designs and their weapons offer many unique elements, allowing players to find and connect with their favorites."

Players begin their journey in a "hub" where they can select and customize their characters before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically end when one player remains, though special victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or facing unique challenges, may vary.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether in PvP or PvE, our aim is to provide an experience where players can learn and refine their skills. PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon victory."

Additionally, the game introduces "roles" that assign players specific responsibilities and objectives. Miyazaki provided examples such as "Destined Rivals," where players must locate and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where forming a bond with a designated partner yields special rewards.

He further explained, "Roles can be customized through blood, enhancing the role-playing aspect and adding depth to player interactions."

The Creator’s Voice blog post provided valuable insights into FromSoftware’s plans for The Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as the game's development progresses. For the latest news on The Duskbloods, be sure to check our updates below!