In a surprising turn of events, FromSoftware, the renowned developer behind iconic titles like Bloodborne, has unveiled its new multiplayer game, The Duskbloods, during yesterday's Nintendo Direct. This announcement has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, as many are dubbing it an unofficial sequel to Bloodborne, which has been a highly anticipated title for years.
On April 2, 2025, Nintendo hosted an hour-long Direct presentation that showcased a plethora of new information about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch on June 5, 2025. Among the exciting reveals were confirmations of popular games such as Elden Ring, Split Fiction, and Star Wars Outlaws. However, it was The Duskbloods that truly captured the attention of fans, given its roots in the gothic aesthetic and gameplay mechanics reminiscent of Bloodborne.
Developed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mastermind behind Bloodborne, The Duskbloods is described as a Player versus Player versus Environment (PvPvE) title that emphasizes online multiplayer gameplay. The game will support up to eight players competing simultaneously, which adds a unique twist to the battle royale genre. According to FromSoftware's official website, players will hunt rival vampires to collect valuable resources known as "moontears." This innovative approach has sparked excitement among gamers, many of whom have longed for a continuation of the Bloodborne experience.
Fans have taken to social media to express their enthusiasm, with one Reddit user stating, "It’s about as close to Bloodborne 2 as you can get without legally calling it Bloodborne, as I’m sure it’s still tied up in Sony exclusivity." The aesthetic of The Duskbloods has drawn comparisons to Bloodborne, with familiar locations, atmospheric elements, and even references to blood and the moon, which are central themes in the original game. One fan remarked, "NGL, I really thought this was a tie-in to Bloodborne. Has all the DNA of the world of Yharnam, familiar locations, and the voice of Mickolash."
Despite the excitement surrounding The Duskbloods, the announcement has also reignited discussions about the future of the Bloodborne franchise and Sony's handling of the IP. Fans have been vocal about their desire for a remaster or sequel to Bloodborne, especially after the game celebrated its tenth anniversary earlier this year. Bloodborne was released in 2015 and has sold over 7 million copies, cementing its place as one of the greatest video games of all time. However, since its launch, there has been little communication from Sony regarding any potential follow-ups.
The announcement of The Duskbloods has led many to speculate about what might have been if Sony had acted sooner. As one fan put it, "With what’s essentially a spiritual successor to FromSoftware’s Lovecraftian soulsborne title coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, you’d imagine PlayStation is wishing it’d greenlit that remaster now..." This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among Bloodborne enthusiasts who feel that their beloved franchise has been neglected.
Interestingly, the reveal of The Duskbloods comes at a time when interest in multiplayer titles is surging. Miyazaki has previously expressed interest in multiplayer games, drawing inspiration from titles like Escape from Tarkov. This shift in focus may indicate a new direction for the developer, as they explore innovative ways to engage players in a shared experience.
In addition to The Duskbloods, the Nintendo Direct also announced several other exclusive titles for the Switch 2, including Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong: Bananza, and a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, titled Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. These announcements have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting year for Nintendo fans.
As the gaming community continues to digest the news, anticipation grows for the release of The Duskbloods, which is slated for 2026. Fans are eager to see how FromSoftware will blend its signature dark fantasy elements with the multiplayer experience. Miyazaki is expected to share further details about the game on April 4, 2025, which is sure to generate even more buzz.
In the meantime, discussions about the future of Bloodborne and the potential for a remaster or sequel remain at the forefront of gamers' minds. As one fan quipped on social media, "FromSoftware: 'Sony, can we make Bloodborne 2?' Sony: 'No.' FromSoftware: 'kk say less.'" This humorous exchange encapsulates the frustration and hope that many fans feel as they await news from Sony.
As the gaming landscape evolves, The Duskbloods stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bloodborne and the creative possibilities that lie ahead. Whether it will satisfy the cravings of Bloodborne fans or carve out its own identity remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the excitement surrounding this title is palpable.
