"Duskbloods: Play as Bloodsworn, Not Bloodborne 2"

The Duskbloods is an exciting new title from FromSoftware, set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. This game introduces players to the world of the Bloodsworn, but rest assured, it's not a sequel to Bloodborne. Let's dive into what FromSoftware has planned for The Duskbloods and explore its unique features.

FromSoftware Will Continue To Create Single-Player Focused Games

The Duskbloods Director on Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice Blog

FromSoftware, renowned for their critically acclaimed Soulslike games, has reassured fans that they will not abandon their signature single-player titles. Despite the upcoming release of The Duskbloods, an online multiplayer PvPvE game for the Nintendo Switch 2, and another multiplayer project, Elden Ring Nightreign, the studio remains committed to their traditional single-player focus.

In an insightful post on Nintendo's new blog, Creator’s Voice, on April 4, FromSoftware's Director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed the company's future direction. He clarified, "As a side note, please allow me to address one thing. As previously mentioned, this is an online multiplayer title at its core, but this doesn’t mean that we as a company have decided to shift to a more multiplayer-focused direction with titles going forward." He further emphasized their commitment to single-player experiences, stating, "The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring was also announced, and we still intend to actively develop single-player focused games such as this that embrace our more traditional style."

The Importance of Blood in The Duskbloods

Miyazaki delved into the thematic core of The Duskbloods, which revolves around the concept of blood. Players take on the role of the "Bloodsworn," individuals with superhuman abilities derived from special blood. While Miyazaki draws parallels to vampires, he ensures that the Bloodsworn will not be portrayed as terrifying monsters.

The narrative of The Duskbloods centers on the quest for "The First Blood," which emerges during "The Twilight of Humanity," an event that unfolds across various times and places. The game's settings will range from traditional Gothic and Victorian aesthetics to scenes depicting the end of the early modern period, such as a train running through a historic landscape.

Miyazaki explained, "Blood symbolizes one of the game’s key themes—the history it holds, the power it passes on, the fates it weaves and the marker of those who have surpassed the limitations of their own humanity." This conceptual use of blood adds depth to the game's narrative and gameplay.

Wide Variety of Characters and Online Multiplayer

The Duskbloods trailer showcased a diverse array of characters, each with unique designs and personalities. Miyazaki confirmed that players will have over a dozen characters to choose from, with customization options available. He expressed enthusiasm about the character diversity, saying, "I think there are a lot of unique elements to the character designs and the weapons they use, so hopefully players can find one or two favorites among them."

The game starts at a central "hub" where players can select and customize their characters before entering online multiplayer matches that support up to 8 players. Upon completing a match, players return to the hub to claim their rewards, which mainly consist of character customization items.

Matches typically end with one player remaining, though there are scenarios with different victory conditions, such as defeating a formidable boss or meeting special circumstances. Miyazaki elaborated, "Regardless of whether it’s PvP or PvE, the idea is to provide players with an experience that allows them to learn and hone their skills as they play. We’ve therefore designed the PvE boss encounters to present a tough challenge and a sense of accomplishment upon defeating them."

The game will also feature "roles" with specific responsibilities and objectives. Examples include the "Destined Rivals" role, where players must find and defeat their rival, and the "Destined Companion" role, where players seek out a partner to form a bond and earn special rewards. Miyazaki noted, "Roles can be assigned to any character via blood customization, allowing players to enjoy role-playing in a literal sense and hopefully adding to the drama of these engagements."

The insights provided in Creator’s Voice offer a glimpse into FromSoftware's ambitious plans for The Duskbloods. With more announcements expected in the future, fans can look forward to further details about this intriguing Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, set for release in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new addition to FromSoftware's portfolio.