FromSoftware, the acclaimed developer behind Elden Ring, has announced plans for a closed network test for its upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive action game, The Duskbloods. The test is slated to run from August 21 through August 23, with applications opening on July 22 and closing on July 28.

This network test is a familiar practice for FromSoftware, which also conducted one for Elden Ring. Given that The Duskbloods is designed as a PvPvE experience, the studio aims to thoroughly test its online functionality and server stability before the game's release. While a specific release date for The Duskbloods has not yet been revealed, it is expected to launch sometime this year.

Network Test Objectives

FromSoftware has outlined several key objectives for this upcoming test:

  • Game Server Load Test: The primary goal is to connect a large number of players simultaneously to assess gameplay performance under stress and evaluate the game server's capacity.
  • Multiplayer Test: The test will identify and address issues that may arise when multiple players interact across various network environments, as well as phenomena related to high player participation.
  • Game Balance Test: By observing real players interacting within the game, developers intend to gather crucial data on game balance and player behavior.

The network test will accommodate up to eight players per session. FromSoftware has cautioned that players may encounter bugs due to the game being in active development.

How to Participate

To be eligible for the network test, interested players must successfully apply, own a Nintendo Switch, and possess an active Nintendo Switch Online membership. The application window opens on Wednesday, July 22, at 7 a.m. PT and concludes on Tuesday, July 28, at 6:59 a.m. PT. Notifications for selected participants will be sent out on Friday, August 7, beginning at 6 a.m. PT.

The scheduled times for the network test are as follows:

  • August 21, 2026 (Friday): 3:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. PDT
  • August 21, 2026 (Friday): 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. PDT
  • August 22, 2026 (Saturday): 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. PDT
  • August 23, 2026 (Sunday): 3:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. PDT
  • August 23, 2026 (Sunday): 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. PDT