The gaming world was set abuzz on April 2, 2025, as FromSoftware unveiled its latest title, The Duskbloods, during the Nintendo Direct presentation for the Switch 2. This announcement has sparked a flurry of excitement and speculation, particularly among fans of the critically acclaimed Bloodborne, who are eager for a sequel to the beloved 2015 title.
While the aesthetic of The Duskbloods draws heavy inspiration from Bloodborne, with its gothic architecture, vampiric themes, and lunar motifs, the developers have clarified that this new game is not a direct sequel. Instead, it positions itself as a spiritual successor, aiming to carve out its own identity within the gaming landscape.
FromSoftware, known for its challenging and atmospheric titles, announced through an X post that The Duskbloods will be a "PvPvE focused multiplayer action game." This marks a significant shift from the studio's traditional focus on single-player experiences, as seen in previous titles like Dark Souls and Bloodborne. Instead of a solitary journey through a dark and twisted world, players can now expect to engage in multiplayer interactions, battling both each other and the environment.
The trailer revealed during the Nintendo Direct showcased a vibrant blend of familiar and new elements. Set against a Victorian backdrop, players will encounter a variety of characters and creatures, some reminiscent of those found in Bloodborne. However, the gameplay hints at a more fluid movement system, allowing characters to leap from heights and perform acrobatic maneuvers, similar to the mechanics introduced in Elden Ring: Nightreign.
Notably, the game appears to feature preset classes, echoing the structure of Nightreign, rather than the customizable characters that fans of FromSoftware's earlier titles have come to expect. Players will have the ability to leverage unique abilities, such as levitating enemies, showcasing a departure from the rigid combat design of Bloodborne.
Despite the similarities, The Duskbloods appears to explore new territory. The inclusion of steampunk elements, such as rustic jetpacks and trains, adds a fresh twist to the traditional FromSoftware formula. This blend of genres and influences suggests that the developers are keen to innovate rather than simply replicate their past successes.
As the gaming community digests the trailer, reactions have been mixed. Some fans express excitement at the prospect of a new FromSoftware title, while others voice disappointment at the lack of a true Bloodborne sequel. Comments on platforms like Reddit reflect this sentiment, with users expressing their mixed feelings about the game's multiplayer focus and exclusivity on the Switch 2.
One user commented, "FromSoft game about vampires in a Victorian gothic setting? This is Bloodborne 2 without the Bloodborne name." Another user shared their concerns, stating, "Not much combat gameplay shown. I hope it ends up being good though." These comments highlight the balancing act that FromSoftware faces in appealing to its dedicated fanbase while also exploring new directions.
As anticipation builds for the game's release in 2026, the question remains: will The Duskbloods satisfy the longings of Bloodborne fans? While it may not be the sequel they have been hoping for, it promises a unique experience that blends the studio's signature style with innovative multiplayer mechanics.
In the wake of The Duskbloods announcement, discussions surrounding a potential Bloodborne remaster or remake have reignited. Fans have been vocal about their desire for a modernized version of the game, especially as other franchises, such as The Witcher, continue to receive new content and updates. However, FromSoftware has not indicated any plans for a Bloodborne remake, leaving players to wonder if they will ever see a return to the haunting world of Yharnam.
As the gaming landscape evolves, The Duskbloods represents both a nod to the past and a step toward the future for FromSoftware. With its combination of PvPvE gameplay, stunning visuals, and a rich atmosphere, it aims to capture the essence of what made Bloodborne so special while also forging its own path. For fans eagerly awaiting the game's release, it may just be worth the wait, even if it isn't the Bloodborne sequel they had hoped for.
