"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but don't get too excited—it's not Bloodborne 2. Delve into FromSoftware's vision 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, the acclaimed developers behind Elden Ring, have reassured fans that they remain committed to crafting their signature single-player experiences, despite their upcoming foray into multiplayer gaming. The company recently unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, announced during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This online multiplayer PvPvE game retains the beloved Soulslike themes and aesthetics, marking a surprising move given their concurrent project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In an insightful post on Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog dated April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's future direction. He clarified that despite the upcoming multiplayer titles, FromSoftware will continue to develop their traditional single-player focused games.

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 emphasized, "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 game's characters and setting, which revolve around the concept of blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While drawing parallels to vampires, Miyazaki noted that the characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event that unfolds across various times and places.

Miyazaki described 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 further explained the symbolic role of blood in the game, stating, "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."

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 will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with some level of customization available. He remarked, "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 game's outset, players gather at a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions, which support up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically conclude with one player remaining, though victory conditions can vary. Players may need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique challenges.

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 introduced the concept of "roles," where players can take on special responsibilities and objectives. While some details remain under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players seek out a partner to form a bond and earn 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 Creator’s Voice blog post offered valuable insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch in 2026. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this exciting game by checking out our article below!