Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2

The Duskbloods will have players assume the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it’s not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to uncover FromSoftware’s vision for The Duskbloods and explore the game's unique 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 they remain committed to developing their signature single-player games, akin to the beloved Soulslike series, even amidst their ventures into multiplayer gaming. They recently unveiled their upcoming exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the April 2 Nintendo Direct, titled The Duskbloods—an online multiplayer PvPvE game that retains the essence of Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This announcement comes as a surprise, especially with another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign, on the horizon.

In the newly launched Nintendo insider blog, Creator’s Voice, published on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their forthcoming projects. He clarified that despite the company's plans for consecutive multiplayer releases, FromSoftware's dedication to crafting traditional single-player games remains unwavering.

Miyazaki stated, "As a side note, please allow me to address one thing. Although The Duskbloods is primarily an online multiplayer title, this does not signify a shift towards a multiplayer-focused direction for our future titles." He further added, "The announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring reaffirms our commitment to continue developing single-player games that embody our traditional style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki shed light on the game’s characters and setting, centered around the theme of blood. Players will embody "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew parallels to vampires, he emphasized that the characters would not be portrayed as the typical monstrous beings.

In The Duskbloods, the Bloodsworn vie for "The First Blood," which emerges at the end of human civilization during an event known as "The Twilight of Humanity." This event unfolds across various times and locations.

Regarding the setting, Miyazaki explained, "The game will feature traditional Gothic- or Victorian-style maps, as well as those representing the closing years of the early modern period, such as the one showcased in the trailer with the train."

Miyazaki highlighted that blood in the game serves as a conceptual element rather than a graphic depiction of injuries. He noted, "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 transcended the limits of their humanity."

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods’ trailer introduced a diverse array of characters, each boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed the availability of over a dozen characters for players to choose from, with options for customization. He remarked, "The character designs and their weapons offer a lot of unique elements, so I hope players find one or two favorites among them."

Players start in a "hub" where they select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer, which supports up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily character customizations.

Matches typically conclude with one survivor, though victory conditions can vary. Players might need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique challenges.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it’s PvP or PvE, our goal is to offer an experience where players can learn and refine their skills. We've designed PvE boss encounters to be challenging yet rewarding upon victory."

He also introduced the concept of "roles," where players can take on special responsibilities and objectives. While specifics are still under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, requiring players to seek out and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players must find a partner to form a bond and unlock special rewards.

He added, "Roles can be assigned to any character through blood customization, enabling players to engage in literal role-playing and hopefully heightening the drama of these encounters."

The Creator’s Voice blog post offered valuable insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is slated for release in 2026. Stay updated with the latest news on the game by checking out our article below!