Elden Ring Network Test Marred by Connectivity Woes

Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server difficulties, preventing many players from participating. IGN staff involved in the test reported severe server issues, rendering the game inaccessible for the first hour.

The problems were so widespread that FromSoftware issued a public apology acknowledging the server congestion hindering matchmaking. While they apologized, they encouraged players to retry after some time.

Adding to the frustration, the limited test availability—five three-hour windows between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—compounds the issue. The schedule is as follows:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Schedule:

• 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

Bandai Namco describes the test as a preliminary verification, allowing selected players to experience a portion of the game before its full release. They aim to evaluate the online system's performance and functionality.

While it's preferable that these server issues surface now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test have expressed disappointment. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign is FromSoftware's standalone cooperative spin-off, set in a parallel world to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three-player teams to battle new threats, explore a dynamic map, overcome challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. It features a three-day-and-night cycle players must endure.

IGN previously had hands-on time with an early build, describing Elden Ring Nightreign as a faster-paced, action-oriented experience compared to the original Elden Ring. [Link to IGN's hands-on preview]

[Link to IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki]

Elden Ring Nightreign releases May 30th, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).

Which Dark Souls bosses would enhance Elden Ring Nightreign?

Ornstein and Smough (Dark Souls)Artorias the Abysswalker (Dark Souls)Looking Glass Knight (Dark Souls 2)Burnt Ivory King (Dark Souls 2)Dancer of the Boreal Valley (Dark Souls 3)Pontiff Sulyvahn (Dark Souls 3)Other (specify in comments)AnswerSee Results