The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, yet it's important to note that this is not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore the game's intriguing features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog

FromSoftware, renowned for Elden Ring, reassures fans that their dedication to crafting signature single-player experiences like the critically acclaimed Soulslike series remains unwavering, even as they venture into multiplayer game development. They unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This online multiplayer PvPvE game embodies the dark, challenging essence fans adore, despite FromSoftware also working on another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a detailed post on Nintendo’s new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the community's concerns. He clarified that while The Duskbloods is fundamentally an online multiplayer title, FromSoftware's commitment to single-player games remains intact.

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 emphasized, "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 thematic core, which revolves around the concept of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. Although Miyazaki likened these characters to vampires, he made it clear that they wouldn't embody the traditional, monstrous depiction of vampirism.

In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event signaling the end of human society and unfolding across various times and locales.

Regarding the setting, Miyazaki shared, "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 explained that in the game, blood serves as a conceptual symbol rather than a mere representation of injury. 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 boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players would have access to over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He expressed, "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 begin their journey at a "hub," where they can select and customize their character before diving into online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, which primarily enhance character customization.

Matches typically conclude with a last player standing, though victory conditions may vary. Some scenarios might require players to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique 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 can take on specific responsibilities and objectives, though some details are still under wraps. Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where the player seeks out and defeats their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where the player forms a bond with a partner to unlock special rewards.

He further elaborated, "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 offered a deep dive into FromSoftware’s plans for their Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods. With more announcements anticipated, fans can look forward to further details. The Duskbloods is slated for release on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Stay updated with the latest game information by checking out our article below!