FromSoftware, the acclaimed developer behind Elden Ring, Dark Souls, and Bloodborne, has unveiled a new title: The Duskbloods. The game, set for release in 2026, will be an exclusive for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The announcement was made during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event, marking a major step for both FromSoftware and Nintendo.
A New Direction for FromSoftware
The Duskbloods represents a departure from FromSoftware’s typical single-player titles. Unlike Elden Ring and Dark Souls, The Duskbloods will feature a multiplayer PvPvE format. This new approach pits players against both each other and the game’s hostile environment. With a focus on competitive gameplay, players will compete to claim the “First Blood”, a mysterious goal that drives the conflict.
The game will bring a fresh experience to fans of FromSoftware’s work, who are accustomed to deep, lore-heavy single-player adventures. The Duskbloods marks the company’s first foray into the multiplayer-only genre.
Bloodborne Influences and Gothic Aesthetics
Fans of FromSoftware’s previous games will find familiar themes in The Duskbloods. The game features a gothic, Victorian-era inspired world that strongly evokes Bloodborne. This is apparent in the trailer, which shows off towering cathedrals, grand train stations, and streets resembling those from Dark Souls’ Anor Londo.
A notable aspect of the setting is its dark, vampiric nature. The trailer hints at a world where vampiric clans, like the Twilight Blood Clan, engage in battle. The protagonist, shown in the trailer, seems to possess mysterious powers granted by the “First Blood”. The gameplay itself also showcases players using unique abilities to gain the upper hand in combat.
Gameplay and Features
The Duskbloods will allow up to eight players to engage in intense PvPvE battles. The focus is on fast-paced action, with FromSoftware’s signature boss fights making a return. In addition to traditional melee combat, the trailer hints at exciting new features, such as jetpacks and vampiric abilities.
Players will battle both human opponents and AI-controlled enemies. The game’s mechanics appear to combine traditional action-RPG elements with competitive multiplayer aspects. The world of The Duskbloods promises dynamic, strategic combat where players must outsmart both foes and other players to secure victory.
Director Hidetaka Miyazaki Leads Development
The Duskbloods is directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, best known for his work on Bloodborne, Dark Souls, and Elden Ring. Miyazaki’s involvement adds a layer of intrigue, as fans anticipate the unique storytelling and world-building that has become a hallmark of his games.
The game’s dark, atmospheric world, combined with its multiplayer mechanics, represents a bold new direction for the studio. While details about the narrative remain scarce, the gothic influences and supernatural themes are unmistakable.
Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive
In a surprising move, The Duskbloods will be a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. This makes the title a key selling point for the new console. Nintendo’s partnership with FromSoftware is expected to drive significant interest in the Switch 2, especially among fans of FromSoftware’s previous titles.
As of now, there is no information regarding the game’s release on other platforms. The Duskbloods will remain exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, further cementing the console’s status as a destination for unique gaming experiences.
Elden Ring on Nintendo Switch 2
Alongside The Duskbloods, FromSoftware is also bringing Elden Ring to the Nintendo Switch 2. The new version, called Elden Ring Tarnished Edition, will launch in 2025. This edition will allow players to experience the acclaimed action-RPG on the new console.
While The Duskbloods will be exclusive to the Switch 2, Elden Ring will be available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. The Nintendo Switch 2 version will likely feature enhancements tailored to the console’s capabilities.
Elden Ring Nightreign: Another Multiplayer Title
Before The Duskbloods launches, FromSoftware will release Elden Ring Nightreign in 2025. Unlike The Duskbloods, Nightreign will not be exclusive to the Switch 2. The game is set to launch on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC.
This multiplayer spin-off will focus on PvP gameplay, offering a different take on the Elden Ring universe. Nightreign will further showcase FromSoftware’s exploration of multiplayer dynamics, paving the way for The Duskbloods in 2026.
The Duskbloods: A New Multiplayer Era
The Duskbloods signifies a major shift for FromSoftware, as the studio embraces multiplayer gameplay in a more direct and competitive form. While details about the game remain limited, the concept of PvPvE gameplay has generated significant interest. The game’s gothic world, combined with its fresh take on multiplayer, offers something new for FromSoftware fans.
As we wait for more information, including a detailed look at the game’s mechanics and story, anticipation continues to build for the release of The Duskbloods in 2026. Nintendo’s Switch 2 now has another major exclusive to look forward to, further solidifying its position as a console for unique gaming experiences.
Also Read: Nintendo Unveils Switch 2: Bigger Screen, Bold Features, and Blockbuster Titles Set for June Launch
Pre-orders and Release Date
Pre-orders for The Duskbloods have yet to open. Fans can expect to secure their copy once a release date is officially confirmed. As of now, all focus is on the upcoming release of Elden Ring Nightreign, which will be available later this year.
The Duskbloods will launch in 2026, though FromSoftware may release further details as the release date approaches. Fans are eager to learn more about the game’s mechanics, lore, and overall world-building. For now, all eyes are on the next phase of FromSoftware’s evolution into multiplayer games.
Final Thoughts
With The Duskbloods, FromSoftware is set to explore new territory in multiplayer gaming. The dark, gothic world, combined with competitive PvPvE gameplay, offers a fresh direction for the studio. The game’s exclusive launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 adds another reason for fans to invest in the new console, further highlighting the growing partnership between Nintendo and FromSoftware. As the game’s 2026 release date approaches, the anticipation for The Duskbloods continues to build.
