"Play as Bloodsworn in The Duskbloods, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but don't be mistaken—it's not Bloodborne 2. Dive into this article to discover 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, the masterminds behind Elden Ring, have reassured fans that they remain committed to crafting their iconic single-player experiences, even as they venture into multiplayer territory. During the latest Nintendo Direct on April 2, they unveiled The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2 that combines online multiplayer PvPvE with the studio's signature Soulslike elements. This announcement comes alongside news of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a revealing post on Nintendo’s new insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's future direction. He clarified that despite the focus on multiplayer with their upcoming titles, FromSoftware's dedication to single-player games remains steadfast.

Miyazaki 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 emphasized, "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 shed light on The Duskbloods' thematic focus on blood, introducing players to the "Bloodsworn," characters endowed with superhuman abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing comparisons to vampires, Miyazaki clarified that the Bloodsworn would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

The game's narrative revolves around the competition for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event spanning different eras and locations.

Miyazaki described the game's settings, saying, "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 further elaborated on the symbolic use of blood in the game, explaining, "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 surpassed the limitations of their own humanity."

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each boasting unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players would have over a dozen characters to choose from, with options for customization. He expressed, "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."

At the outset, players gather at a hub where they can select and customize their character before entering online multiplayer sessions that support up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect their rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically conclude with one player standing, though victory conditions can vary. Players may need to defeat a formidable boss or face other unique challenges.

Miyazaki detailed, "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 some details remain undisclosed. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must seek out and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players must find a partner to form a bond and earn special rewards.

Miyazaki explained, "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."

The Creator’s Voice blog provided crucial insights into FromSoftware’s Switch 2 exclusive. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Stay updated with the latest news on the game by checking out our article below!