FromSoftware directing a multiplayer-focused game exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2? It sounds like a fever dream, but The Duskbloods is very real—and it’s shaping up to be one of 2026’s most intriguing releases. Here’s everything we know about the Dark Souls studio’s ambitious new project.
Quick Answer
- The Duskbloods is FromSoftware’s new multiplayer action RPG for Nintendo Switch 2
- Director: Hidetaka Miyazaki (Dark Souls, Elden Ring)
- Players: Up to 8 in PvPvE matches
- Theme: Dark fantasy with vampire-like “Bloodsworn” characters
- Release: 2026 (Switch 2 exclusive)
- Publisher: FromSoftware (Japan), Nintendo (worldwide)
What Is The Duskbloods?
The Duskbloods is a multiplayer action role-playing game that blends PvP (player versus player) and PvE (player versus environment) gameplay. Up to eight players compete across various maps as “Bloodsworn”—vampire-like characters who have transcended the limits of humanity through blood.
The setup is classic FromSoftware: As humanity reaches its end, a source known as the First Blood flows, bringing about the Twilight—where locations across time and space converge. Bloodsworn fight beings who have surpassed human limitations, all while competing against each other.
Think Hunt: Showdown meets Elden Ring Nightreign, with FromSoftware’s signature gothic atmosphere.
Gameplay and Combat
Character Selection and Roles
Unlike traditional Souls games where you create a custom character, The Duskbloods features over a dozen pre-designed Bloodsworn, each with unique weapons (including firearms), abilities, and fighting styles.
Customization works differently here. Players adjust their character’s “blood history and fate” in a dedicated hub area. This doesn’t just change appearance—it modifies:
- Abilities and combat style
- In-game role assignments
- Character attributes
Match Roles
Each match assigns players specific roles with unique objectives:
- Destined Rivals: Find and defeat a designated enemy player
- Destined Companion: Seek out a designated ally for special rewards
- Other roles create varying objectives throughout matches
Victory Conditions
Matches conclude when only one player remains. Players earn Victory Points through direct combat or strategic actions—you don’t necessarily need to be the best fighter to win. Everyone receives rewards regardless of outcome, which can be used for character customization.
Dynamic Events
An event system can shake up matches by introducing:
- Special enemy spawns
- Additional objectives
- Bonus rewards
Players can also summon companions to aid in combat, adding another tactical layer.
Setting and Aesthetic
FromSoftware is drawing from Gothic and Victorian aesthetics, along with the late early modern period. The Bloodsworn aren’t depicted as monstrous vampires—instead, the developers aimed to reinterpret romantic themes associated with vampires and blood.
Lore fragments are woven into character customization items, specifically within each character’s blood history and fate. This reveals details about the game world organically, staying true to FromSoftware’s environmental storytelling approach.
Development History
The Duskbloods has been in development since 2019. FromSoftware initially pitched the concept to Nintendo as what Miyazaki described as “more a loose string of ideas than a proper presentation.”
The project originally targeted the original Nintendo Switch. When Nintendo informed FromSoftware about the Switch 2, the team shifted development to take advantage of the new hardware—further emphasizing online features and bringing the game closer to their original vision.
The game was officially announced in April 2025 as a Switch 2 exclusive.
Why Is It Switch 2 Exclusive?
This is FromSoftware’s first console exclusive since Bloodborne (2015). The IP is owned by FromSoftware, but the game is published by:
- FromSoftware in Japan
- Nintendo worldwide
The exclusivity deal has been controversial among PlayStation and PC players, but FromSoftware has stated they’re committed to the partnership.
Pro Tips for Launch Day
- Don’t expect Dark Souls combat—this is multiplayer-focused with different pacing
- Learn multiple Bloodsworn—role assignments mean you’ll need flexibility
- PvE matters—you don’t have to be the best PvP player to win
- Explore the hub—customization affects gameplay, not just cosmetics
- Watch for events—dynamic objectives can swing matches
FAQ
Is The Duskbloods like Elden Ring Nightreign?
There are similarities—both are multiplayer FromSoftware games with PvPvE elements. However, Duskbloods features pre-made characters and a very different setting and tone.
Will The Duskbloods come to PS5 or PC?
No announcements have been made. The game is currently exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2.
Is there single-player content?
The Duskbloods is designed primarily as a multiplayer experience. Solo play details haven’t been confirmed.
When exactly does The Duskbloods release?
Sometime in 2026. A specific date hasn’t been announced yet.
Who is directing The Duskbloods?
Hidetaka Miyazaki, the director behind Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Sekiro, and Elden Ring.
Summary
The Duskbloods represents FromSoftware at their most experimental—a multiplayer-first action RPG exclusive to Nintendo’s new console. With Miyazaki directing and the studio’s track record, this could be a defining title for Switch 2. Mark your calendars for 2026.
