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 significant server issues, preventing many players from accessing the game. IGN staff reported being unable to access the game for the first hour due to extreme server problems.

FromSoftware acknowledged the server congestion, apologizing for the difficulties players faced in finding matches and encouraging them to try again later. The limited availability of the test—five three-hour sessions between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—exacerbates the problem.

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Timings:

• 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 to evaluate the online system's performance. While server issues are preferable now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test have expressed frustration. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign is a standalone cooperative spin-off, set in a parallel world to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three players to 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 that squads must endure.

IGN's hands-on experience with an early build highlighted Elden Ring Nightreign's fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay, a departure from the more cautious approach of the original Elden Ring. [Further details are available in 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).