The Duskbloods will have players embodying the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive into FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore 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 creators behind Elden Ring, have reassured fans that they will continue to craft their signature single-player experiences, even as they venture into multiplayer gaming. Recently, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2, they unveiled their upcoming exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, The Duskbloods. This online multiplayer PvPvE game retains FromSoftware's distinctive Soulslike themes and aesthetics, a surprising move given their concurrent project, Elden Ring Nightreign.
In a recent entry on Nintendo's Creator's Voice blog, posted on April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite the company's forays into multiplayer gaming, they remain committed to their traditional single-player focused titles.
Miyazaki clarified, "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 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 delved into the game's characters and setting, which revolve around the concept of blood. Players will control "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki likened them to vampires, he noted that these 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 signaling the end of human society. This competition spans various times and places.
Regarding the setting, Miyazaki explained, "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."
Miyazaki emphasized that blood in the game serves as a conceptual element rather than a mere depiction of injuries. He stated, "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 can choose from over a dozen characters, with some level of customization available. He said, "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 start at a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. After matches, players return to the hub to collect rewards, which primarily enhance character customization.
Matches typically conclude with one player remaining, though victory conditions can vary. Players may also need to defeat a powerful boss or face other special challenges.
Miyazaki detailed, "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 receive specific responsibilities and objectives, though some details remain pending. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, requiring players to locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players must find and bond with a partner to earn 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 provided key insights into FromSoftware's exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch in 2026. Stay updated with the latest game news by checking out our article below!
