"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players take on 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 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 will continue to craft their signature single-player experiences, akin to the critically acclaimed Soulslike titles. This commitment comes despite their venture into multiplayer gaming with the announcement of The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2 unveiled during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. The Duskbloods is an online multiplayer PvPvE game that retains the iconic Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This news follows closely on the heels of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a recent post on Nintendo’s insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their upcoming projects. He emphasized that despite the focus on multiplayer games, FromSoftware remains dedicated to developing traditional single-player titles.

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 added, "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 delved into the game’s characters and setting, which revolve around the theme of blood. Players will control characters known as "Bloodsworn," members of a group endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki drew comparisons to vampires, he clarified that these characters would not be portrayed as traditional monstrous figures.

In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," which emerges at the end of human society during an event called "The Twilight of Humanity." This event spans various times and locations.

Miyazaki described the game's setting, 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 explained that blood in the game serves as a conceptual element rather than a mere depiction of injury. Miyazaki noted, "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 with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with some level of customization available. He remarked, "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, which supports 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 remaining, though victory conditions can vary. Players may need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other special scenarios.

Miyazaki elaborated, "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."

He also introduced the concept of "roles," where players take on specific responsibilities and objectives. While some details remain under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples such as the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players seek out a partner to form a bond and earn special rewards.

He further 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 post offered valuable insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is set to launch in 2026. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this exciting game by checking out our article below!