FromSoftware's next major project, The Duskbloods, is shaping up to be its most complex and intriguing game to date. Director Hidetaka Miyazaki has cited tabletop role-playing games as a significant influence on the title's gameplay systems and multiplayer mechanics. While it retains the challenging action combat FromSoftware is known for, The Duskbloods introduces an eight-player, phase-based PvPvE setting where players compete to earn victory points and avoid elimination.
This ambitious title is a multiplayer-only exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players select from various characters, known as Bloodsworn, each with unique weapons, abilities, and ranged attacks. Matches consist of three phases, each lasting approximately eight minutes, during which players must accumulate "Virtue" points. Failing to earn enough points leads to elimination, with the bottom two players removed after Phase II and the bottom three after Phase III. The remaining three players then advance to a final three-player PvP duel, the "Moon Blood Bestowal."
Virtue points can be earned through several methods. "Bloodfang Virtue" is awarded for PvE enemy kills, while "Collector Virtue" is given for collecting items. The visibility of these stats can fluctuate as the match progresses. "Flame Virtue" points are found as collectible embers scattered across randomized map regions, and "Repulsion Virtue" is gained by defeating powerful computer-controlled enemies called Trespassers. Each Bloodsworn also has a unique "Sigil," a personal objective that grants Virtue upon completion.
A particularly engaging method for earning Virtue is through "Rituals." These events, occurring in the latter half of Phases II and III, designate a section of the map with capture points. Holding these points awards "Pledge Virtue," but requires a player to hold the action button for a sustained period, leaving them vulnerable. Other players can steal these points, transferring the Virtue to themselves. Within Ritual Sites, "Sword Virtue" can also be earned by defeating other players, transforming these areas into intense PvP zones.
Players will respawn after being defeated, meaning death does not automatically lead to elimination. While participation in Rituals is optional, it offers a high-risk, high-reward path to accumulating Virtue. Special items, Goldstones and Redstones, can boost Virtue gained from capturing points or defeating other players, respectively.
Randomized map events can further shake up gameplay in Phases II and III. These might include opportunities for airstrikes from a hovering zeppelin or challenges like being the first to ring a bell atop a tall building, encouraging dynamic player interaction and strategic maneuvering.
The final three-player duel shifts the gameplay significantly, requiring players to adapt to a more direct PvP confrontation, akin to a fighting game or 3D arena brawler. With two lives per player and the addition of summoned NPC companions called "Kin," this endgame phase emphasizes opponent reading and understanding character capabilities.
In-match progression is crucial, with players leveling up to improve health, stamina, and abilities. Failing to defeat enemies consistently can leave players underpowered. Bloodsworn characters gain a new special ability at level 12, significantly impacting combat. For example, Trang Lanh gains a powerful snake summon, while Senator Samir Patres can transform into a dinosaur.
Six Bloodsworn were available during the preview, with ten planned for the full release, each offering distinct playstyles. Layla functions as a sniper, Albert is an all-rounder, and Bloodhand Jan uses an axe and fire spells. The combat feel is comparable to Bloodborne or Elden Ring, featuring blocking, parrying, and a stagger mechanic that allows for a damaging bite attack which can also heal the player and convert weaker enemies into temporary allies.
NPC companions, or "Kin," are vital. Summoned via glowing symbols on the map, they fight alongside players and level up independently, adding another layer to character builds. These Kin can be resummoned after a cooldown period if defeated.
Technically, The Duskbloods targets 60 frames per second. While frame drops were occasionally noticeable in chaotic scenarios, the overall performance remained smooth and did not detract from the experience.
Only one map, Lowanro City, was playable during the preview. This map features a grim Victorian aesthetic and includes diverse environments like swamps, a cathedral, city streets, rooftops, sewers, and a central bridge. The map's density and verticality, enhanced by a quadruple jump and airdash system, contribute to its fast-paced traversal.
However, the lock-on targeting system presents a challenge, particularly with the game's speed and the frenetic movement of human players. The camera can struggle to track fast-moving targets, an issue FromSoftware may need to address. Some players may find it beneficial to keep enemies primarily in front of them to mitigate these targeting limitations.
Cooperative elements are present, with players able to team up against Trespassers for shared Virtue rewards. Duo matches are also available, where two players share points and compete in a 2v2 final phase.
Miyazaki confirmed that tabletop and TTRPGs heavily influenced The Duskbloods' design. A comprehensive tutorial is included to help players grasp the game's complexity. The developer is actively seeking player feedback from the network test to refine features. Character customization and options that allow players to focus on PvE or character progression in a hub area called The House of Night are planned but not yet implemented.
Regarding the potential skill gap, Miyazaki stated that matchmaking will consider skill levels, and systems will be introduced to encourage veteran players to assist newcomers. Story progression will not solely rely on winning matches, with PvE achievements also offering rewards. A potential "Invasion-style" mode, allowing a ninth player to enter an ongoing match, was also hinted at.
The Duskbloods aims to appeal to players who enjoy discovery and unexpected gameplay elements, reminiscent of FromSoftware's previous works. The game's success on Switch 2 will depend on balancing its complex mechanics and maintaining a player base. Miyazaki expressed a desire to create a game he himself would enjoy playing, a sentiment that underpins the studio's approach to game development.
The Duskbloods is slated for release on Nintendo Switch 2, though a release date or window has not yet been announced.