FromSoftware, a studio renowned for its solitary, challenging single-player experiences, is venturing into competitive multiplayer with The Duskbloods, a Switch 2 exclusive that subverts expectations. Initially described as a PvPvE Soulslike, the studio now believes that descriptor was somewhat inaccurate. While player-versus-player combat is central, the game strongly emphasizes solo exploration, confronting formidable monsters, and uncovering secrets to outmaneuver rivals. This unique blend offers a compelling take on competitive multiplayer, even for players who typically favor single-player adventures.
The game has been in development since 2021, concurrently with Elden Ring, and centers on the Bloodsworn, a group of vampiric warriors competing in an event called the Twilight of Humanity for a prize known as First Blood. Game director Hidetaka Miyazaki clarified that The Duskbloods is not a reaction to Elden Ring's success or a pivot towards multiplayer, but rather a project he wished to pursue. The timing of its release alongside Elden Ring's recent success is circumstantial, and Miyazaki assured that FromSoftware remains committed to single-player games.
The Duskbloods expands upon the multiplayer mechanics found in previous FromSoftware single-player titles, adapting them for a dedicated competitive experience. The decision to develop for the more powerful Switch 2, rather than its predecessor, was a fortunate one, avoiding potential compromises. The game's development team expressed relief at the reveal of Nintendo's current-generation hardware, a sentiment echoed by the engaging gameplay experience.
At the core of The Duskbloods are the playable Bloodsworn characters. The full game will feature over 10 distinct characters, with six available for play during the preview session and the upcoming closed network test. Each Bloodsworn is equipped with both short and long-range weaponry, alongside unique special abilities.
Combat mechanics will feel familiar to Souls game veterans, but The Duskbloods introduces a dynamic traversal system. Bloodsworn can perform multiple mid-air jumps, allowing for high leaps over buildings and swift repositioning. Sprinting is unrestricted by stamina, which is reserved for actions like attacking and dodging. A key mechanic involves staggering enemies and performing a neck bite to drain their blood. This not only grants a small health boost but also turns weaker enemies into temporary allies, providing a valuable tactical advantage against rivals. This parry-like stagger is also effective against other players, inflicting significant damage and interrupting their attacks.
Players can also summon helpful entities known as Kin through special portals, similar to Spirit Ashes in Elden Ring. These companions persist throughout a match and grow stronger as they defeat enemies. The preview showcased a variety of Kin, including Baritone, a singing behemoth that buffs allies, and Gargoyle, which provides healing. While Kin can be recalled and swapped, higher-level Kin offer a distinct advantage.
Each match, dubbed a Dusk Battle, pits eight players against each other in a four-phase timed event where the last player standing wins. Victory hinges on accumulating Virtue, a resource gained through combat, defeating bosses, and exploration. Different types of Virtue exist, such as Repulsion Virtue from boss defeats and Commendation Virtue from completing smaller objectives. Flame Virtue, found on specific corpses, offers a unique first-come, first-served reward.
Phase I of a Dusk Battle is elimination-free, serving as an opportunity to gather strength, unlock abilities, and search for Virtue. Subsequent phases introduce eliminations, with players needing to meet a certain Virtue quota to advance. Character-specific missions called Sigils offer optional objectives for earning Virtue, ranging from hunting marked players to proposing an alliance with a rival.
Phases II and III introduce Ritual Sites, zones where players can earn substantial Virtue by engaging in PvP combat or capturing objectives. These areas often devolve into chaotic battles as players vie for control. The game also features random Events that can drastically alter gameplay, such as map-wide firebombing from a zeppelin or unavoidable lightning strikes that teleport players.
The final Phase IV culminates in an arena battle for the remaining top three players. These smaller arenas, some with unique hazards like bottomless pits, require players to use their remaining two lives wisely. Winning these intense duels often requires a high level of skill, with eliminated players spectating the final showdown.
The preview build featured a single map, Lowarno City, a multi-layered environment with diverse areas like a cathedral, caves, and a bell tower. Players can also find chests to enhance their weapons with elemental damage. While the map is large enough to foster isolation, it still facilitates semi-regular encounters with other players. Lowarno City is one of three maps planned for the final release.
Despite its competitive nature, The Duskbloods allows for player cooperation through Alliances, where two players can team up for the duration of a Dusk Battle. Partners cannot harm each other and share certain rewards, though the alliance dissolves in Phase IV when they must become opponents. A separate Duos Mode also exists, pitting teams of two against each other.
Narrative elements are woven into The Duskbloods through a special NPC in the main hub, the House of Night, and a customization system called Bloodlines. Unlocking Bloodlines through gameplay reveals aspects of the Bloodsworn characters' history and relationships. Emergent gameplay moments also contribute to the unfolding narrative.
FromSoftware's foray into competitive multiplayer with The Duskbloods proves surprisingly engaging, even for players who typically prefer solo experiences. The ability to gather Virtue through exploration and AI combat reduces the reliance on direct PvP engagement, making it accessible. The game successfully blends the urgency of a battle royale with FromSoftware's signature mystique and challenging combat. Its performance on the Switch 2 was reportedly flawless, to the point where players could forget the platform. While many mysteries remain, including the full narrative scope and potential Switch 2-specific features, The Duskbloods shows significant promise.