The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, yet it's important to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive into FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and discover its unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, the creators behind Elden Ring, have reassured fans that they remain committed to crafting their renowned single-player experiences. This commitment stands firm despite their venture into multiplayer gaming with titles like The Duskbloods and Elden Ring Nightreign. The Duskbloods, an exclusive for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, was unveiled during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This game blends FromSoftware’s signature Soulslike atmosphere with online multiplayer PvPvE dynamics.
In the latest installment of Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog on April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's direction. He emphasized, "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." Miyazaki further reassured, "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 Duskbloods' thematic focus on blood. Players will step into the shoes of "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew comparisons to vampires, he clarified that these characters would not embody the traditional monstrous depiction of vampirism.
Central to the game's narrative is the pursuit of "The First Blood," a coveted prize that emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," a cataclysmic event spanning various eras and locales.
Describing the game's setting, Miyazaki said, "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 emphasized 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 customizable characters, stating, "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."
The game begins at a "hub" where players select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions, supporting up to 8 players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim rewards, primarily character customizations.
Matches typically conclude with a last player standing, though some scenarios may involve defeating a formidable boss or meeting other special conditions. 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."
Additionally, the game introduces "roles" with specific responsibilities and objectives. Miyazaki mentioned 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 special rewards. He added, "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 from Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog have provided a comprehensive overview of FromSoftware's ambitious project for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates by checking out our latest articles!
