The Duskbloods Has You Playing as Bloodsworn, But No, It's Not Bloodborne 2

Discover the intriguing world of The Duskbloods, where players take on the role of Bloodsworn, but rest assured, this isn't Bloodborne 2. Dive into FromSoftware's vision for this game and explore its unique features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

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

FromSoftware, renowned for their critically acclaimed Soulslike games, has reassured fans through Elden Ring's director Hidetaka Miyazaki that they will continue to craft their signature single-player experiences. This comes despite the studio's recent announcement of The Duskbloods, a PvPvE online multiplayer game exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, unveiled during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This news follows closely on the heels of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a candid discussion on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog on April 4, Miyazaki clarified FromSoftware's direction. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer with The Duskbloods, the company remains committed to developing traditional single-player games. He 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 noted, "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 thematic essence of The Duskbloods, which revolves around the concept of blood. Players control characters called "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities through special blood. While drawing parallels to vampires, Miyazaki clarified that these characters would not be portrayed as terrifying monsters.

The narrative of The Duskbloods centers on the quest for "The First Blood," a pivotal element that emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," marking the end of human society. This event unfolds across various timelines and settings.

Regarding the game's 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." He added that blood serves as a conceptual element in the game, symbolizing "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 offers a diverse roster of characters, each with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players can choose from over a dozen characters, with options for customization. He expressed optimism about the variety, saying, "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."

The game starts at a "hub" where players select and customize their characters before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to claim rewards, primarily used for further character customization.

Matches typically end when one player remains standing, though different victory conditions can apply. Players might need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique scenarios. Miyazaki explained, "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."

Additionally, the game introduces "roles" with specific responsibilities and objectives, though details are still being finalized. Examples include "Destined Rivals," where players must seek out and defeat their designated rival, and "Destined Companion," where players form bonds with their partners for special rewards. Miyazaki 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."

Nintendo's Creator’s Voice blog has provided a comprehensive look at FromSoftware's plans for The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2 set to launch in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements as the game's development progresses. For the latest news on The Duskbloods, check out our article below!