Elden Ring Nightreign’s First Network Test Plagued by Server Issues, FromSoftware Issues Apology

Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing substantial server difficulties, hindering many players' participation.

IGN's testers reported severe server issues, preventing gameplay access for the test's first hour. The problems were so extensive that FromSoftware released a social media statement acknowledging the server congestion preventing matchmaking. While apologizing for the inconvenience, they encouraged players to retry after some time.

The limited availability of the Elden Ring Nightreign network test—five three-hour windows between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—exacerbates the issue. Here's the schedule:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Times:

• February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
• February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
• February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET

Bandai Namco describes the test as a "preliminary verification test" allowing selected players to experience a portion of the game before launch. They aim to evaluate the online system's performance and functionality.

While preferable to encounter these server issues now rather than at the May launch, players who had planned to participate are understandably frustrated. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a world parallel to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test lets three players team up, battling "new terrors," exploring a dynamic map, overcoming challenging bosses, and ultimately confronting the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle.

IGN previously previewed an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign, describing it as a faster-paced, action-oriented experience compared to the original Elden Ring.

[Link to IGN's hands-on preview of Elden Ring Nightreign]

[Link to IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki]

Elden Ring Nightreign launches May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).