Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2

The Duskbloods will immerse players in the role of a Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it’s not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to discover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and its innovative 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, has reassured fans that their commitment to crafting signature single-player experiences remains strong, despite their venture into multiplayer gaming. They unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2. This game introduces an online multiplayer PvPvE format while retaining the iconic Soulslike themes and aesthetics. Interestingly, this comes alongside another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In the new Creator’s Voice blog post on April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player titles remains unchanged.

Miyazaki stated, "While The Duskbloods is fundamentally an online multiplayer title, it does not signal a shift in our overall direction towards multiplayer-focused games." He further added, "With the announcement of Elden Ring for the Nintendo Switch 2, we continue to prioritize the development of single-player games that align with our traditional style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki elaborated on the game's narrative, centered around the concept of blood. Players will assume the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. He drew parallels to vampires but clarified that these characters wouldn't embody the typical monstrous depiction.

The Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," which emerges at the culmination of human civilization in an event known as "The Twilight of Humanity." This event unfolds across various eras and locations.

Discussing the game's setting, Miyazaki described, "The environments range from classic Gothic or Victorian aesthetics to scenes reminiscent of the late stages of the early modern period, such as the train seen in the trailer."

He explained the symbolic role of blood within the game, saying, "Blood represents one of the game’s central themes—the history it encapsulates, the power it transfers, the destinies it intertwines, and the testament to those who have transcended their human limitations."

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The trailer for The Duskbloods showcased a diverse array of characters, each with distinctive designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players would have over a dozen characters to choose from, with some degree of customization available. He remarked, "The unique elements in character designs and weapon choices should help players find one or two favorites."

At the game's outset, players convene at a "hub" to select and customize their character before venturing into online multiplayer, which supports up to 8 players. Post-match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily used for further character customization.

Matches typically conclude with the last player standing, though some may have alternative victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or navigating special scenarios.

Miyazaki elaborated, "Whether it's PvP or PvE, our goal is to offer an experience that allows players to learn and refine their skills. PvE boss encounters are designed to be challenging, providing a rewarding sense of achievement upon victory."

He also introduced the concept of "roles," where players can assume specific duties and objectives. While some details remain undisclosed, Miyazaki provided examples like "Destined Rivals," where players must locate and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where forming a bond with a chosen partner yields unique rewards.

He further explained, "Roles can be assigned to any character through blood customization, enhancing the role-playing experience and adding depth to the game's interactions."

The Creator’s Voice provided crucial insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements anticipated, The Duskbloods is poised for release in 2026. Stay updated with our ongoing coverage below!