The Duskbloods will have players assume the role of a Bloodsworn—but no, it’s not Bloodborne 2. Read on to discover more about FromSoftware’s vision for The Duskbloods and what features to expect.
FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games
The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog
Fresh off the heels of Elden Ring, FromSoftware has confirmed that while they are exploring new multiplayer ventures, their commitment to single-player experiences remains strong. This was clarified by Hidetaka Miyazaki, director at FromSoftware, during a recent post on Nintendo’s official blog, “Creator’s Voice,” published April 4.
In the blog, Miyazaki addressed concerns regarding the company’s shift toward online titles, stating: “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 noted that FromSoftware would continue developing traditional single-player games, such as the upcoming Elden Ring version for Nintendo Switch 2.
This comes amid the announcement of The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer PvPvE title exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, revealed during the April 2 Nintendo Direct event. The game embraces the signature dark fantasy aesthetic synonymous with FromSoftware, even as it diverges from their typical solo-focused gameplay.
The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods
Miyazaki delved into the thematic core of The Duskbloods, emphasizing the symbolic and narrative significance of blood throughout the game. Players will take on the role of the "Bloodsworn"—individuals infused with supernatural abilities through the use of special blood. While drawing comparisons to vampiric lore, Miyazaki made it clear these characters won't be depicted as monstrous beings.
A central element of the game is the pursuit of "The First Blood," a legendary essence that emerges only at the end of human civilization—a recurring event known as "The Twilight of Humanity," which unfolds across various historical periods and locations.
Miyazaki elaborated on the setting: “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 also highlighted the conceptual meaning behind blood in the game: “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 cast of characters, each featuring unique designs and personalities. According to Miyazaki, players can choose from over a dozen characters, many of whom offer customization options. 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 beginning of each session, players gather in a central hub where they can select and personalize their character before entering a match. Each online session supports up to eight players, and after the battle ends, participants return to the hub to collect rewards—primarily cosmetic items and enhancements for their character.
While most matches conclude when only one player remains, some rounds introduce alternate victory conditions, such as defeating a powerful boss or completing specific objectives.
Miyazaki explained the design philosophy behind these encounters: “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.”
Additionally, the game introduces dynamic "roles" that assign players specific responsibilities and goals within a match, though exact mechanics are still being refined. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must locate and defeat their designated rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, which requires forming a bond with a partner to unlock exclusive rewards.
Miyazaki added: “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.”
Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice blog provided valuable insight into FromSoftware’s vision for The Duskbloods. With more details expected to surface in the future, fans eagerly await the game’s release in 2026. Stay tuned to [ttpp] for the latest updates and news on The Duskbloods.
