The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct brought an unexpected surprise with the announcement of a new third-party game from FromSoftware, titled *The Duskbloods*. Revealed towards the end of the showcase, this game draws noticeable parallels to the cherished PlayStation 4 exclusive, *Bloodborne*. Set to launch globally in 2026 and exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, *The Duskbloods* invites players to step into the shoes of the "Bloodsworn," a faction elevated beyond humanity through unique blood. The game pits players against each other in a fierce melee to claim the title of "First Blood."
According to a FromSoftware press release, *The Duskbloods* is a PvPvE title that places "online multiplayer at its core," accommodating up to eight players in a battle for supremacy. While the game evokes the atmosphere of *Bloodborne* with its blood, guns, and machinery, it also shares similarities with *Elden Ring Nightreign*, albeit with a focus on PvP rather than solely co-op PvE.
The announcement was accompanied by cryptic teases and glimpses of terrifying beasts and bosses, sparking a range of reactions from *Bloodborne* enthusiasts. One Reddit user exclaimed, "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" while another speculated, "That game is 100% *Bloodborne 2*. I assume the name change is either because it's in a different setting, or because of Sony exclusivity."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Dusk Bloods
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Though The Duskbloods is distinct, its connections to Bloodborne are evident, leading fans to view it as a spiritual successor. While the Souls series and Elden Ring have expanded to other platforms—with Elden Ring even slated for a "Tarnished Edition" on the Switch 2—Bloodborne has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive, leaving fans yearning for a port, sequel, or any related content for years.
One Reddit user quipped, "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for *Bloodborne 2* and just decided to fund it themselves." Another pointed out the exclusivity, saying, "*Bloodborne* was always an exclusive, this is on brand."
The reveal ignited excitement among *Bloodborne* fans, but the confirmation that *The Duskbloods* leans towards a battle royale-style PvPvE experience rather than a traditional single-player RPG from FromSoftware has led to tempered enthusiasm. Discussions on social media have reflected a mixed response, with some fans expressing reservations about the multiplayer focus and Switch 2 exclusivity.
More details about *The Duskbloods* are expected soon, with an interview featuring director Hidetaka Miyazaki set to be published on Nintendo's website on April 4. This upcoming interview is anticipated to provide insights into the game's mechanics, its PvPvE elements, and whether it can fulfill the long-held hopes of *Bloodborne* fans.
For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, make sure to visit our recap of the event.
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