"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods will have players take on the role of a Bloodsworn, but don't get your hopes up—it’s not Bloodborne 2. Dive deeper to explore FromSoftware’s vision for The Duskbloods and uncover 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 not stray from their signature single-player games, despite branching into multiplayer territory. They unveiled their latest project, The Duskbloods, an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. This PvPvE game retains the Soulslike essence that fans love, even as they prepare to launch another multiplayer title, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In a recent post on Nintendo's insider blog, Creator’s Voice, dated April 4, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's direction. He emphasized that despite the upcoming multiplayer titles, FromSoftware remains committed to crafting traditional single-player experiences.

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 elaborated, "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 game's narrative and setting, which revolves around the theme of blood. Players assume the role of "Bloodsworn," individuals endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. He likened the concept to vampirism, though he clarified that the characters are not portrayed as traditional monsters.

In The Duskbloods, Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," a prize that emerges at the end of human civilization during an event known as "The Twilight of Humanity." This event spans across various eras and locales.

Describing the game's settings, Miyazaki said, "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 the role of blood in the game, stating, "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 trailer for The Duskbloods 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 noted, "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 game's outset, players gather at a "hub" where they can select and customize their character before diving into online multiplayer, which supports up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, primarily character customization items.

Matches typically end when one player remains standing, though there are scenarios where victory conditions vary. Players may need to defeat a formidable boss or navigate other unique challenges.

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," which assign players specific responsibilities and objectives. While some details are still under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples like the "Destined Rivals" role, where the player must locate and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where forming a bond with a partner yields 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 provided key insights into FromSoftware’s exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2. With more announcements expected in the future, The Duskbloods is poised to launch in 2026. Stay tuned to our updates for the latest on this exciting new game!