"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive in to discover FromSoftware’s vision for The Duskbloods and explore its unique features.

FromSoftware Commits to Single-Player Games Amid Multiplayer Projects

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

Elden Ring’s creators at FromSoftware have reassured fans that they remain dedicated to crafting their signature single-player experiences, despite their forays into multiplayer gaming. They unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer PvPvE title exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This announcement came as a surprise, especially with another multiplayer game, Elden Ring Nightreign, also on the horizon.

In a detailed post on Nintendo's new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the future of the company's game development. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer titles like The Duskbloods, FromSoftware is not shifting away from their cherished single-player focus.

Miyazaki stated, "While The Duskbloods is fundamentally an online multiplayer game, this does not signify a shift towards a multiplayer-centric approach for our future projects." He further added, "We continue to develop single-player focused games, such as the announced Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring, which aligns with our traditional style."

The Central Theme of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki shed light on the game’s thematic focus on blood, introducing players to the "Bloodsworn," a group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. He likened these characters to vampires but clarified that they would not embody the monstrous traits typically associated with vampirism.

The narrative revolves around the quest for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an apocalyptic event spanning various times and locations.

For the game's setting, Miyazaki noted, "Players will explore a variety of environments, from Gothic and Victorian-style maps to scenes reminiscent of the early modern period, such as the train sequence shown in the trailer."

He emphasized that blood serves as a conceptual element, symbolizing the game's core themes: history, power, fate, and transcendence of human limitations.

Diverse Characters and Engaging Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods trailer showcased a range of characters, each with distinct designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players can choose from over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He expressed, "The unique designs and weapons offer players a chance to find their favorites among the roster."

At the game's hub, players select and customize their characters before entering online multiplayer sessions accommodating up to eight players. Post-match, they return to the hub to collect rewards, mainly character customization items.

Matches typically end with a last player standing, though some may feature alternative victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or meeting special challenges.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it's PvP or PvE, the goal is to offer an experience that promotes skill development and a sense of achievement, especially in PvE boss battles."

He also introduced the concept of "roles," where players can take on specific responsibilities and objectives. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, requiring players to find and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players must form a bond with a partner for special rewards.

Miyazaki explained, "Roles can be assigned through blood customization, enhancing the role-playing aspect and adding depth to player interactions."

The insights from Creator’s Voice offer a glimpse into FromSoftware’s ambitious project for the Nintendo Switch 2. As The Duskbloods gears up for a 2026 release, fans can look forward to further announcements. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest on this exciting title!