FromSoftware's Duskbloods: Bloodsworn Adventure, Not Bloodborne 2

FromSoftware’s upcoming title, Duskbloods, casts players as Bloodsworn in a thrilling PvPvE experience, distinct from Bloodborne 2. Discover the game’s unique features and FromSoftware’s vision for this Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive.

FromSoftware Stays Committed to Single-Player Experiences

Duskbloods Director Shares Insights on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice

FromSoftware, renowned for Elden Ring, reaffirms its dedication to crafting signature single-player games, even as it ventures into multiplayer projects. During the April 2 Nintendo Direct, the studio unveiled Duskbloods, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive blending Soulslike aesthetics with online PvPvE gameplay. This announcement follows news of another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a Creator’s Voice blog post on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki discussed the studio’s future. He emphasized that despite consecutive multiplayer projects, single-player games remain a core focus.

Miyazaki stated, “Let me clarify one point: while Duskbloods is an online multiplayer game, this does not signal a shift away from our roots. We’re also developing a Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring and will continue creating single-player titles in our traditional style.”

Blood as a Central Theme in Duskbloods

Miyazaki revealed that Duskbloods centers on the concept of blood, with players controlling “Bloodsworn,” characters endowed with extraordinary abilities through unique blood. While likened to vampires, these characters avoid the monstrous tropes of traditional vampirism.

In the game, Bloodsworn vie for “The First Blood,” a rare prize that emerges during “The Twilight of Humanity,” an event spanning various eras and locations.

Miyazaki described the settings, noting, “The game features Gothic and Victorian-inspired maps, alongside others set in the waning years of the early modern era, like the train-filled landscape seen in the trailer.”

He clarified that blood in Duskbloods is symbolic, not gory, representing “the history it carries, the power it conveys, the destinies it shapes, and the mark of those who transcend human limits.”

Diverse Characters and Dynamic Multiplayer

The Duskbloods trailer showcased a variety of characters, each with distinct designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed players can choose from over a dozen customizable characters. “The unique designs and weapons should let players find a favorite or two,” he noted.

Gameplay begins in a “hub” where players select and customize characters before entering online matches supporting up to eight players. Post-match, players return to the hub to claim rewards, primarily character customization options.

Matches typically conclude with one player standing, though some feature unique victory conditions, such as defeating formidable bosses or navigating special scenarios.

Miyazaki explained, “Whether PvP or PvE, we aim to create an experience where players refine their skills. Our PvE boss battles are designed to be challenging, delivering a sense of triumph when overcome.”

He also highlighted “roles” that assign players specific objectives, such as “Destined Rivals,” where players must defeat a designated opponent, or “Destined Companion,” where forming alliances yields unique rewards.

“Roles are tied to characters through blood customization, enabling literal role-playing that adds drama to encounters,” Miyazaki added.

The Creator’s Voice blog offered a glimpse into FromSoftware’s Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, with more details expected soon. Duskbloods is slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this title!