The highly anticipated FromSoftware title, Duskbloods, has surfaced in early gameplay footage and developer interviews, offering a glimpse into its unique structure and design philosophy. As a decade-plus veteran of FromSoftware's Soulsborne titles, these are the key observations from the initial reveals.
A Structured, Run-Based Approach
Duskbloods adopts a structure reminiscent of titles like Nightreign, featuring instanced, run-based gameplay with an escalating timer. This system seems to increase difficulty and stakes as matches progress. Players will select characters with distinct fantasies, abilities, and potentially equipment. The game is set to launch with three distinct maps, one more than Nightreign offered even after its DLC.
PvPvE Focus with PvE Options
The game's core loop centers on players competing to complete PvE objectives. Unlike the predator-prey dynamics seen in games like Tarkov or Marathon, the aim here is to surpass other players in the lobby by achieving more objectives. Success in these objectives contributes to a "Virtue" score, determining who survives to the next round. While PvP map events and optional objectives are present, the default conclusion to a match involves a PvP showdown among the remaining players.
However, FromSoftware has included options to cater to different playstyles. A PvE-focused co-op boss battle can be unlocked as an alternative to the PvP finale, offering an experience closer to Nightreign's Nightlords. Conversely, an in-game item can be used to intensify the PvP aspect, rewarding players with Virtue for eliminating opponents.
Echoes of Bloodborne and Soulsborne Design
Fans will recognize many familiar motifs and design elements that evoke FromSoftware's previous titles, particularly Bloodborne. The hooded ogre characters bear a resemblance to Bloodborne's Church Giants, and the showcased map's vistas strongly recall Yharnam, complete with a scenic clock tower view. Boss encounters, such as a cathedral roof fight, feature arenas that bring to mind the Gargoyles from Dark Souls or Martyr Logarius from Bloodborne. Furthermore, weapons that resemble Elden Ring and Bloodborne's whirly saw variants, alongside cathedral interiors reminiscent of Upper Cathedral Ward, contribute to a strong sense of stylistic continuity.
Vertical Level Design Inspired by Shadow of the Erdtree
Duskbloods' revealed map exhibits a dense, vertical level design, drawing comparisons to the Land of Shadow from Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. This approach prioritizes verticality and density over the sprawling open worlds seen in games like Elden Ring's Limgrave. This style of design was highly praised in Shadow of the Erdtree and could translate well to Duskbloods, though its effectiveness will be further evaluated in relation to the game's time-based restrictions.
Concerns Regarding Long-Term Support and PC Availability
A persistent concern among players is FromSoftware's historical track record with post-launch support and balance for its multiplayer components. While this has been more forgivable when multiplayer serves as a supplement to robust single-player experiences, the perceived lack of longevity in titles like Nightreign raises questions about Duskbloods' long-term viability. The community holds out hope for a complete package from FromSoftware, whether it be an Elden Ring sequel, an Armored Core expansion, or another new project. Additionally, the initial reveal as a Switch 2 exclusive has drawn criticism, with many hoping for a PC version, which is considered by many to be the game's natural home. Further details are expected during the upcoming network test.