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

The Duskbloods introduces players to the role of a Bloodsworn, but it's important to note that this is not a sequel to Bloodborne. Dive in to discover FromSoftware's vision for The Duskbloods and explore its unique features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog

FromSoftware, the creators behind the acclaimed Elden Ring, have reassured fans of their commitment to crafting their signature single-player experiences. Despite branching into multiplayer with their upcoming title, The Duskbloods, announced for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the April 2 Nintendo Direct, the studio remains dedicated to their traditional game design. The Duskbloods is an online multiplayer PvPvE game that retains FromSoftware's iconic Soulslike themes and aesthetics. This announcement follows closely on the heels of another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign.

In the newly launched Nintendo insider blog, Creator’s Voice, FromSoftware Director Hidetaka Miyazaki shared insights into their future projects. On April 4, Miyazaki clarified that despite the focus on multiplayer games, the studio's commitment to single-player titles remains unwavering. He 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 delved into the game’s narrative, which centers around the concept of blood. Players take on the role of "Bloodsworn," members of a faction endowed with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki likened these characters to vampires, he emphasized that they would not embody the typical monstrous traits associated with traditional vampirism.

In The Duskbloods, the Bloodsworn compete for "The First Blood," a prize that only emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an apocalyptic event spanning various eras and locations.

Regarding the game's setting, Miyazaki explained, "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 highlighted that blood in the game serves as a conceptual element rather than a graphic depiction of injury, symbolizing "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 will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with options for customization. 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 central "hub" where they can select and customize their characters before diving into the online multiplayer mode, which supports up to 8 players. After each match, players return to the hub to collect rewards, primarily used for character customization.

Matches typically conclude with a last-player-standing scenario, although victory conditions can vary. Players may sometimes 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."

The game also introduces "roles," with specific responsibilities and objectives assigned to players. While some details remain under wraps, Miyazaki provided examples such as "Destined Rivals," where players must locate and defeat their rival, and "Destined Companion," where players seek out a partner to form a bond and earn special rewards. He 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 offered a comprehensive look at FromSoftware’s plans for their Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods. With more announcements expected in the future, the game is slated for release in 2026. Stay tuned for the latest updates on The Duskbloods by checking out our dedicated article below!