"Play as Bloodsworn in The Duskbloods, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but it's essential to clarify that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive into the details to discover what FromSoftware has in store for The Duskbloods and explore its 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 will continue to produce their signature single-player games, even as they explore multiplayer projects. During the latest Nintendo Direct on April 2, they unveiled The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. This online multiplayer PvPvE game maintains the Soulslike themes and aesthetics that FromSoftware is known for. This announcement follows closely on the heels of another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a recent post on Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed fans' concerns. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer titles, the studio remains committed to developing traditional single-player experiences.

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 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 narrative and setting, highlighting the central theme of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. Although Miyazaki drew comparisons to vampires, he clarified that the Bloodsworn would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

The game's core objective revolves around the quest for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an apocalyptic event occurring across various timelines and locations.

Miyazaki described the game's settings, 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."

In The Duskbloods, blood serves as a symbolic element rather than a mere representation of injury. Miyazaki explained, "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 options for some level of customization. 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 convene in a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically conclude with one player remaining, though victory conditions can vary. In some instances, players may need to defeat a formidable boss or meet 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," which assign special responsibilities and objectives to players. Although details are still being finalized, Miyazaki provided examples such as "Destined Rivals," where players must seek out and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where players need to find a partner to form a bond and earn special rewards.

He 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 crucial insights into FromSoftware’s upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods. With more announcements expected in the future, fans can look forward to further details. Scheduled for release in 2026, The Duskbloods promises to be an exciting addition to the gaming landscape. Stay tuned for the latest updates by checking out our dedicated article below!