There’s something unique and different about the two latest titles currently in development by FromSoftware. Unlike their previous projects, where single-player experiences were the core focus, both of these upcoming games are leaning heavily into multiplayer gameplay. Following the confirmation that Elden Ring Nightreign will be a PvE-focused title, the spotlight has now shifted to their new Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, which will feature an added layer of PvP. Has multiplayer become the new direction for the studio?
For longtime fans concerned about this, there’s some reassuring news. As part of the marketing following the recent Nintendo Direct, Nintendo has published an official blog post featuring an interview with FromSoftware’s president, Hidetaka Miyazaki, that is centered around The Duskbloods.
Miyazaki has long been interested in developing a multiplayer experience with a PvPvE concept, such as the one explored in The Duskbloods. According to him, this approach allows for greater flexibility in gameplay and world design.
“Yes, I’ve always found the PvPvE structure very interesting. It allows for a broad range of game-design ideas, while also letting us leverage our experience of designing challenging enemy encounters,” Miyazaki explained. “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.”
In the game, players will assume the role of a Bloodsworn — individuals who have obtained supernatural powers through special blood. These Bloodsworn gather during an event known as the Twilight of Humanity, each driven by a singular ambition: to obtain what is referred to as the First Blood. Where this will take place will vary, going from “traditional Gothic- or Victorian-style maps as well as those depicting the closing years of the early modern period”.
The new FromSoftware game supports up to 8 players simultaneously and uses a hub-based system where players can choose from a roster of characters, customise them, and regroup between missions. The PvE aspect will revolve around boss battles and include randomised events that offer additional objectives or rare enemies for extra rewards.
As for PvP, Miyazaki revealed a Roles system that assigns specific objectives to players, which interact dynamically with others’ roles. For example, a player with the Destined Rivals role will be tasked with hunting down and eliminating a rival player, which is a personal victory that is distinct from the main mission objectives.
Regarding the mouse-like character teased at the end of the trailer, Miyazaki explained that it will serve a role similar to the Fire Keeper in Dark Souls, acting as a guide within the hub area. Since this is a Nintendo title, the character has been designed with a more adorable aesthetic in mind.
The Duskbloods is currently scheduled for release in 2026, though a specific launch window has yet to be announced by FromSoftware and Nintendo.
