The Duskbloods

In a surprising move, FromSoftware, the renowned developer behind Dark Souls and Elden Ring, has announced The Duskbloods, a multiplayer-focused game set to debut exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. This title marks a significant departure from FromSoftware's typical single-player narratives, embracing a player versus player versus environment (PvPvE) format that promises intense online battles.

Setting and Atmosphere

The Duskbloods is set in a dark, gothic Victorian world that evokes strong memories of Bloodborne, with sprawling cathedrals, grand train stations, and streets reminiscent of Dark Souls' Anor Londo. The game's aesthetic is deeply rooted in vampiric lore, featuring characters with mysterious powers derived from special blood. Players will take on the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group that has transcended human strength, engaging in a violent struggle to claim the coveted "First Blood."

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay revolves around fast-paced action, combining traditional melee combat with unique vampiric abilities and steampunk elements, such as jetpacks. Up to eight players will be thrown into battle, competing against each other while also facing off against formidable AI-controlled enemies. This competitive format promises to deliver a dynamic and strategic experience, where players must outmaneuver both human opponents and the hostile environment.

PvPvE Multiplayer

The Duskbloods is FromSoftware's first foray into a multiplayer-only game, offering a fresh experience for fans accustomed to the developer's deep, lore-heavy single-player adventures. The PvPvE format allows for a mix of cooperative and competitive elements, as players work together to overcome environmental challenges while also vying for supremacy among themselves.

Director Hidetaka Miyazaki

Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, known for his work on Bloodborne, Dark Souls, and Elden Ring, The Duskbloods promises to deliver the same level of storytelling and world-building that has become a hallmark of FromSoftware's games. Miyazaki's involvement adds a layer of intrigue, as fans anticipate the unique narrative and atmospheric elements that he brings to his projects.

Trailer Breakdown

The trailer for The Duskbloods offers a glimpse into its dark, vampiric world, showcasing characters with mysterious powers and a range of weapons, including traditional melee arms and steampunk-inspired gadgets. The presence of jetpacks and vampiric abilities suggests a game that blends action-RPG elements with competitive multiplayer aspects. The trailer also hints at the return of FromSoftware's signature boss fights, which have become iconic in their previous titles.

Community Reaction

The announcement of The Duskbloods has sparked a wide range of reactions from fans, with some drawing comparisons to Bloodborne and others expressing skepticism about the shift towards multiplayer. Despite the initial surprise, the game's unique blend of competitive gameplay and dark, gothic atmosphere has piqued the interest of many, who are eager to see how FromSoftware will execute this new direction.

Conclusion

The Duskbloods represents a bold new step for FromSoftware, combining the developer's signature dark fantasy elements with a competitive multiplayer format. As the game approaches its release in 2026, fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to dive into this immersive world and experience the intense PvPvE battles that it promises. With its blend of vampiric lore, steampunk elements, and fast-paced action, The Duskbloods is poised to captivate both new and returning players alike.