Elden Ring Nightreign, the much-anticipated standalone co-operative spin-off from FromSoftware, is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40. The game will be available across a wide range of platforms including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam, as confirmed by publisher Bandai Namco. This exciting release follows the successful Elden Ring and promises a fresh yet parallel experience for fans.
Ahead of the full launch, Bandai Namco has scheduled a network test exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, starting February 14 and concluding on February 17. The test is not continuous; instead, it will be conducted during five specific three-hour windows:
- 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
This network test is designed as a "preliminary verification test" where selected testers will experience a segment of the game, focusing on evaluating the online system's functionality and performance. Bandai Namco is keen on receiving feedback to enhance Elden Ring Nightreign before its full release.
Set in a universe parallel to the events of the original Elden Ring, Elden Ring Nightreign starts at the Roundtable Hold. Players will choose from eight distinct characters, each with unique abilities and powerful Ultimates. Their adventure takes them to Limveld, an ever-changing environment where they must make critical decisions in combat and exploration, especially as the night cycle progresses and the map shrinks with the ominous Night's Tide.
The game's structure revolves around a three-day-and-night cycle where players must survive each night, culminating in battles against increasingly challenging bosses. The ultimate goal is to confront and defeat the Nightlord on the third night. Players can tackle these challenges solo, but cooperative play is encouraged, allowing Nightfarers to combine their abilities for a more formidable approach. Even if players fail, they earn relics that can be used to customize and upgrade their characters, tailoring their playstyle for future attempts.
Elden Ring Nightreign promises a dynamic action RPG experience, where no two sessions are the same due to the ever-shifting enemies, rewards, and the environment of Limveld. Venturing deeper into the map and defeating tougher enemies will unlock more powerful weapons and greater Rune rewards. Discovering Sites of Grace offers opportunities to level up and gain essential power boosts. Each session is akin to navigating an open-air dungeon, providing chances to enhance lasting stat bonuses. With each successful run, players edge closer to defeating the Nightlord and uncovering the intriguing story behind each Nightfarer in this parallel world.
Last year, IGN had the privilege of going hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign at FromSoftware. The experience was described as taking the methodical dungeon crawls of the original Elden Ring and transforming them into fast-paced, exhilarating speedruns. For further insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki to dive deeper into the world of Elden Ring Nightreign.
