FromSoftware's New Multiplayer Title, The Duskbloods, Announces Closed Network Test
Games

FromSoftware's New Multiplayer Title, The Duskbloods, Announces Closed Network Test

authorBy Hideo Kojima
DateJul 15, 2026
Read Time2 min
FromSoftware's latest venture into multiplayer gaming, "The Duskbloods," is poised for its initial public preview through a Closed Network Test. This highly anticipated title from the creators of "Dark Souls" and "Elden Ring" aims to immerse players in a competitive online arena, offering a fresh take on the studio's renowned gameplay mechanics within a multiplayer-centric framework.

Unveiling "The Duskbloods": A Glimpse into FromSoftware's Multiplayer Future

Anticipation Builds for FromSoftware's Newest Release: "The Duskbloods" Network Test Soon

Enthusiasts of FromSoftware's distinctive game design will soon have the chance to experience "The Duskbloods" firsthand. A Closed Network Test has been officially announced for the upcoming month, providing an early opportunity to delve into the next major offering from the developers of "Dark Souls" and "Elden Ring."

Registration Details for the "Duskbloods" Closed Network Test

Prospective participants can register for the network test between July 22nd at 10 a.m. EDT and July 28th at 9:59 a.m. EDT. To qualify for both application and participation, individuals must possess a Nintendo Switch 2 console and maintain an active Nintendo Switch online membership. The test itself will take place from August 21st to August 23rd.

"The Duskbloods": A Deep Dive into Multiplayer-Only Gameplay

Following the considerable success of "Elden Ring: Nightreign," "The Duskbloods" marks FromSoftware's continued commitment to multiplayer-exclusive titles. This game made its debut during a Nintendo Direct event in 2025, with a subsequent livestream providing further insights into the network test scheduled for this summer.

Unveiling the Enigma: "The Duskbloods" Gameplay and Narrative Hints

Despite the imminent playability, FromSoftware has maintained a degree of secrecy surrounding "The Duskbloods," with recent promotional materials offering limited specific details. The official announcement described the game as a "PvPvE experience with online multiplayer at its core, where up to eight players compete against each other and formidable adversaries." The initial trailer showcased a diverse array of combatants, ranging from Victorian nobility to dinosaurs and steampunk figures, all unified by an overarching gothic-horror and vampire-themed aesthetic, drawing comparisons to "Bloodborne."

Addressing Community Skepticism: FromSoftware's Multiplayer Direction

FromSoftware's decision to pursue another multiplayer game, rather than focusing on the intricate single-player RPGs that have defined their legacy, has elicited some skepticism within the gaming community. The upcoming network test for "The Duskbloods" will serve as a crucial opportunity to either validate or challenge these perceptions as players finally get to experience the game for themselve

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