"Elden Ring Nightreign Release Date Officially Announced"

Elden Ring Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40, and will be available across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam, as confirmed by publisher Bandai Namco. This exciting news comes ahead of the Elden Ring Nightreign network test, which is scheduled exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The test will run from February 14 to February 17, with specific session times spread across these days. Players should note that the test won't be accessible throughout the entire four-day period but will be open during five three-hour windows.

Elden Ring Nightreign network test session timings:

• 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

The network test is described as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch," according to Bandai Namco. This large-scale Network Stress Test aims to assess various aspects of the online system's functionality and performance. Bandai Namco is eager for participants' cooperation to enhance Elden Ring Nightreign further.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone co-operative spin-off from FromSoftware, unfolds in a universe parallel to that of the 2022's Elden Ring. The network test will enable three players to join forces, selecting their Nightfarers to combat new terrors, explore a dynamic map, and challenge increasingly difficult bosses, ultimately facing the Nightlord. The test includes a unique three-day-and-night cycle that players must survive.

Here's the official description:

The all-new adventure in Elden Ring Nightreign starts at the Roundtable Hold, set in a parallel universe to the events of Elden Ring. Players can choose from eight unique characters, each with distinct abilities and powerful Ultimates. Their journey leads them to Limveld, a continuously changing environment, where they must make rapid decisions during combat and exploration as the map shrinks with the onset of Night’s Tide.

At the end of each night, players will confront a formidable boss, and if victorious, they'll awaken to face even greater challenges. The climax of each session occurs on the third night, with a battle against the chosen Nightlord. While individuals can brave the night alone, teamwork is key. Nightfarers must collaborate, leveraging their unique abilities for a unique experience. Those who fall in battle will earn relics, allowing for character customization and upgrades tailored to their preferred playstyles.

Elden Ring Nightreign offers an unprecedented experience from FromSoftware, Inc. In this compact action RPG, no two journeys will be the same, as enemies, rewards, and Limveld itself constantly shift and evolve with each new session. Conquering tougher foes and exploring deeper into the map reveals more potent weapons and substantial Rune rewards. Discovering Sites of Grace provides opportunities for heroes to level up and gain essential power. Each session-based adventure feels like navigating an open-air dungeon, offering chances to develop lasting stat bonuses. Successful nights bring players closer to defeating the Nightlord and uncovering the stories behind each Nightfarer in this parallel world.

Last year, IGN had the privilege of visiting FromSoftware and going hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. We were thoroughly impressed, noting that Elden Ring Nightreign "transforms the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring into exhilarating, fast-paced speedruns."

For deeper insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki for more on Elden Ring Nightreign.