Nintendo's recent Direct presentation showcased a thrilling surprise: the announcement of a new game from FromSoftware, titled The Duskbloods. Set to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, this multiplayer action title is led by renowned director Hidetaka Miyazaki, known for his work on the critically acclaimed Dark Souls series and Elden Ring.
The reveal of The Duskbloods has sparked excitement among fans, as it appears to channel the gothic aesthetic and atmospheric storytelling reminiscent of Bloodborne, a beloved title that remains exclusive to Sony's PlayStation. However, The Duskbloods is not a direct sequel to Bloodborne, but rather a distinct experience that introduces players to a world filled with vampires and dark fantasy elements.
During the Nintendo Direct, the trailer for The Duskbloods captivated viewers with its haunting visuals and intriguing narrative. The trailer opens with an enigmatic scene: a man slumped in a chair, seemingly lifeless, as a woman's voiceover echoes, "I give you my blood. I give you my life. Turn a wheel, and transport him to a night of moonlight, to humanity's very dusk." This sets the tone for a game steeped in mystery and dark themes.
The gameplay of The Duskbloods is designed to be multiplayer-centric, supporting up to eight players who will engage in intense battles against each other and formidable foes. Players will assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group that has transcended human limitations through their unique blood. The game's tagline promises a violent struggle for "First Blood" as humanity's twilight approaches.
FromSoftware's announcement emphasized the game's PvPvE (player vs player vs enemies) format, marking a departure from the studio's traditionally single-player focused titles. This shift suggests that The Duskbloods aims to deliver a fresh multiplayer experience, allowing players to collaborate and compete in a rich, immersive world.
In addition to The Duskbloods, FromSoftware confirmed that Elden Ring will also be available on the Nintendo Switch 2, further solidifying the studio's commitment to supporting the new console. The Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with a retail price of $450, although pre-order details were not disclosed during the presentation.
As anticipation builds for The Duskbloods, fans are eager to learn more about the game. Hidetaka Miyazaki will share additional insights in a developer diary series titled "Creator's Voice," which will be published on Nintendo's official website on April 4, 2025. This will provide a closer look at the game's development and gameplay mechanics.
The reveal of The Duskbloods marks a significant moment for FromSoftware, as it represents the studio's first console-exclusive title in over a decade. Previously, Bloodborne was the last game to hold this distinction, launching on the PlayStation 4 in 2015. The decision to create a title exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 raises questions about the future of FromSoftware's partnerships, particularly with Sony.
Fans are already speculating about the potential gameplay mechanics that may carry over from Elden Ring to The Duskbloods. Early glimpses from the trailer suggest an open-world design, possibly featuring horseback riding and a variety of combat options, including melee and magic. The presence of a character visibly biting into an enemy hints at a possible power absorption mechanic, adding depth to the gameplay.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits further updates, the buzz surrounding The Duskbloods continues to grow. With its unique blend of gothic horror and multiplayer action, the game has the potential to captivate both long-time fans of FromSoftware and newcomers alike.
For those looking to catch up on all the exciting announcements from the Nintendo Direct, including launch games and pricing details, Kotaku and other gaming news outlets will provide ongoing coverage and analysis throughout the day.
In a landscape where multiplayer experiences are increasingly popular, The Duskbloods could set a new standard for cooperative and competitive gameplay within a dark fantasy setting. As more information is revealed, players will undoubtedly be eager to dive into the chilling world that FromSoftware has crafted.
With its unique premise, engaging gameplay, and the legacy of Hidetaka Miyazaki behind it, The Duskbloods is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated titles for the Nintendo Switch 2. The combination of FromSoftware's expertise in creating immersive narratives and challenging gameplay, along with the innovative capabilities of the new console, promises a gaming experience that could redefine the genre.
