The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it’s not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and its unique features.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
FromSoftware, renowned for Elden Ring, reassures fans that their commitment to crafting signature single-player experiences remains steadfast, even with multiple multiplayer projects on the horizon. They unveiled their latest endeavor, The Duskbloods, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. This online multiplayer PvPvE game embraces the iconic Soulslike themes and aesthetics, surprising many as it follows on the heels of another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In a revealing entry on Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog dated April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the community's concerns. He clarified that despite the upcoming multiplayer games, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player experiences remains unchanged.
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 narrative and setting, which revolves around the theme of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing parallels to vampires, Miyazaki noted that the depiction would steer clear of traditional monstrous imagery.
In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," which emerges only during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event that unfolds across various eras and locales.
For the setting, Miyazaki described, "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 highlighted that blood in the game serves as a conceptual symbol rather than a graphic element, explaining, "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 distinct designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed the availability of over a dozen characters, with customization options to enhance player immersion. 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."
Players begin their journey at a "hub," where they can select and customize their characters before venturing into online multiplayer, accommodating up to 8 players. Post-match, they return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily character customization items.
Matches typically end with a last player standing, though specific victory conditions may vary. Players might need to confront formidable bosses 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 assume special responsibilities and objectives, though specifics remain under wraps. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, requiring players to find and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players must locate their partner to forge a bond and earn unique rewards.
Miyazaki 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 provided crucial insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more details expected to be revealed in the future, The Duskbloods is slated for release in 2026. Stay updated with the latest developments by checking out our article below!
