The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to explore FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and uncover the game's unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
Elden Ring's creators at FromSoftware have reassured fans that they will continue to craft their signature single-player experiences, akin to the critically acclaimed Soulslike games, even as they venture into multiplayer territory. They recently unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, announced during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This online multiplayer PvPvE title retains the distinctive Soulslike themes and aesthetics, surprising fans who were also anticipating another multiplayer endeavor, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In the latest installment of Nintendo’s insider blog, Creator’s Voice, published on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware remains committed to developing their traditional single-player 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 provided a glimpse into the game’s characters and setting, which revolve around the concept of blood. Players will embody "Bloodsworn," members of a group endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While Miyazaki drew comparisons to vampires, he clarified that the characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous vampires.
In the narrative of The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," a coveted prize that manifests at the culmination of human society in an event dubbed "The Twilight of Humanity." This event unfolds across various times and locales.
Miyazaki elaborated on the game's setting, saying, "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 explained that blood in The Duskbloods serves a conceptual role rather than merely representing injury. "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," Miyazaki remarked.
Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer
The trailer for The Duskbloods showcased a range of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players would have over a dozen characters to choose from, with some degree of customization available. He expressed, "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 character before diving into online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily character customizations.
These matches typically conclude with a last player standing, though there are instances where victory conditions vary. Players might need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique scenarios.
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."
He also touched on the concept of "roles" in the game, where players can take on special responsibilities and objectives. Although some details remain under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where forming a bond with a partner yields special rewards.
Miyazaki further explained, "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 blog post offered significant insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements on the horizon, The Duskbloods promises to be an intriguing addition to the gaming landscape. Set for release in 2026, stay tuned to our updates for the latest on The Duskbloods!
