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The Duskbloods Hands-on Preview – Calling all Bloodsworn
A hands-on preview of FromSoftware's upcoming PvPvE multiplayer game, The Duskbloods, reveals a game that blends elements of Elden Ring and Bloodborne with its own unique mechanics. Players compete to gather 'Virtue' by defeating enemies and other players, with alliances being temporary and strategic. Despite initial connectivity issues during a network test, the game showcased impressive gothic art direction and fluid combat on the Nintendo Switch, though its long-term appeal may depend on future content and progression systems.
Weekend Discussion - August 23, 2026
This Weekend Discussion article from Shacknews covers various topics including a Sudoku puzzle, a discussion about Dune, watches, MREs, obscure weapons, and coffee. It also highlights recent Shacknews articles about The Duskbloods, NBA 2K27, Borderlands 4, and speculates on the plot of Kingdom Hearts 4. The article also mentions Sam Chandler, Head of Guides at Shacknews, and reiterates Shacknews' policy against using AI in content creation.
The Duskbloods Closed Network Test had more players than Elden Ring Nightreign's
FromSoftware producer Yasuhiro Kitao expressed surprise that The Duskbloods' closed network test on Nintendo Switch 2 attracted more players than Elden Ring Nightreign's test on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. This marks a potential shift for FromSoftware's presence on Nintendo platforms, with Elden Ring Tarnished Edition and The Duskbloods slated for release soon. Shacknews also had an early access preview of The Duskbloods, noting its shorter gameplay loop and faster pace compared to other FromSoftware titles.
The Duskbloods Won’t Require Players to be “Great at PvP” to Succeed, Says Director
FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki stated that players will not need to be highly skilled at PvP to succeed in the upcoming game, The Duskbloods. He explained that systems like the Kin companions can be emphasized and customized to assist players, allowing those who prefer a less intense PvP experience to still enjoy the game and potentially win matches. This approach aims to cater to a wider range of playstyles, similar to how Spirit Ashes function in Elden Ring.
The Duskbloods Studio Wants to Implement “Ranked” Matchmaking System, Says Director
FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki discussed the matchmaking system for the upcoming PvPvE title, The Duskbloods, aiming to pair players of similar skill levels. He also mentioned plans for unlocking customization and story content through gameplay, and potential features to foster positive interactions between veteran and new players, similar to the hint system in other FromSoftware titles. The game is in development exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The Duskbloods is Comparable to Elden Ring, Bloodborne “In Terms of Sheer Volume,” Says Director
FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki stated that The Duskbloods will offer a comparable volume of lore and worldbuilding to Elden Ring and Bloodborne. He also mentioned that the game will feature extensive loadout customization and gameplay systems designed to appeal to players who may not be skilled at PvP, despite its PvPvE structure. The Duskbloods is in development exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 and will launch with one map, with more content planned post-release.
The Duskbloods’ Closed Network Test Attracted More Applicants Than Elden Ring Nightreign
The Duskbloods' closed network test attracted a surprising number of applicants, reportedly rivaling FromSoftware's Elden Ring. Producer Yasuhiro Kitao expressed surprise at the turnout, especially considering it was for a single platform, the Nintendo Switch, unlike Elden Ring's test which was on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5. Despite the success of Elden Ring, Hidetaka Miyazaki reassured fans that FromSoftware remains focused on single-player experiences.
The Duskbloods Network Test review - FromSoftware offers multiplayer vampires
FromSoftware's upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, offers a multiplayer-focused experience with fast-paced combat reminiscent of Dark Souls and Bloodborne. The Network Test revealed a competitive knockout tournament structure where players collect 'Virtue' to survive elimination phases, with options for temporary alliances and permanent 'kin' summons. While the core gameplay loop is compelling and features unique characters, its long-term appeal and integration of story elements remain to be seen.
The Duskbloods devs were "definitely very happy" with the Switch 2's reveal after FromSoftware struggled…
FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki revealed that the development of their upcoming multiplayer game, The Duskbloods, initially faced significant challenges on the original Nintendo Switch. The announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 was a welcome relief, solving many of these technical hurdles and allowing the team to focus on new systems and player onboarding, areas where Nintendo provided substantial support.
Miyazaki explains how The Duskbloods plans to protect newcomers from its best players
FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki confirmed that their upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, will feature skill-based matchmaking to protect new players from experienced ones. This system aims to create ranked pools for both new and veteran players to ensure fairer matches. Miyazaki also discussed potential positive interactions between different player skill levels, such as rare in-game events or an Alliance system for cooperative play.
This newly announced soulslike has a main character inspired by Dark Souls' most heartbreaking boss fight
Stray Dog: Nobody Cares is a new soulslike game inspired by Dark Souls, featuring a protagonist that is a loyal hound to a captured knight, similar to Great Grey Wolf Sif. Developed by Parry Frames Studio, the game will include familiar soulslike mechanics such as parrying, backstabbing, and stealth, with a combat framework that has been completed. The studio previously released the soulslike Crimson Oath.
The Big Question: What's your video game happy place?
Several Eurogamer staff members share their personal 'happy places' in video games, discussing titles that offer comfort, nostalgia, or a sense of accomplishment. These range from the expansive exploration of No Man's Sky and the challenging yet meditative worlds of FromSoftware games to the simple joys found in games like Super Mario 64 and Rollercoaster Tycoon Classic.
7 developers that will save the video games industry - Reader’s Feature
This reader's feature highlights seven smaller developers, including 11 bit studios, AdHoc Studios, Daniel Mullins Games, Hazelight Studios, Larian Studios, Sandfall Interactive, and Supergiant Games, who are seen as vital to the future of the video game industry. The article praises their innovative approaches to game design and storytelling, contrasting them with the perceived missteps of larger publishers.
Parts of The Duskbloods are "very similar to a lot of RPG elements you might find in a tabletop RPG," says FromSoftware boss Hidetaka Miyazaki
FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki revealed that elements of the upcoming game The Duskbloods are inspired by tabletop RPGs, including unique multiplayer objectives and player relationships. The game, which is a Nintendo Switch exclusive, will feature skill-based matchmaking and is expected to release later this year.
FromSoftware enters the skill-based matchmaking debate with The Duskbloods: "We definitely plan on having the matchmaking system work in a way so that it's ranked"
FromSoftware plans to implement skill-based matchmaking in its upcoming game, The Duskbloods, to ensure a better experience for both new and veteran players. Director Hidetaka Miyazaki stated that the system will aim to match players of similar skill levels, with potential for features that encourage interaction between different player tiers later on. The game is a Nintendo Switch exclusive.
47 video game things that spark joy
This article compiles a list of small, often overlooked moments in video games that bring players joy, ranging from humorous bugs and satisfying combat mechanics to clever design choices and nostalgic elements. Contributors share personal anecdotes about specific instances that enhance their gaming experience, highlighting the unique pleasures the medium can offer.
FromSoftware knows what it's doing with The Duskbloods character Zork, the internet's new obsession: "I have developed a powerful, almost maternal affection"
FromSoftware's upcoming Nintendo Switch exclusive, The Duskbloods, has seen its character Zork become an internet sensation, with players developing a strong affection for the quirky armored character. Despite server issues during the game's closed network test, the focus has shifted to Zork's endearing design and meme potential, overshadowing the game's more serious vampiric themes.
Is The Duskbloods multiplayer and PvP only?
The Duskbloods is a multiplayer-only PvPvE game from FromSoftware that emphasizes combat against enemies and bosses over player-versus-player encounters. Matches are structured in multiple rounds, similar to a battle royale, where players earn Virtue Points by defeating enemies and collecting them, with eliminations occurring after each round. While PvP combat becomes more likely as matches progress, game director Hidetaka Miyazaki assures players that extensive PvP skill is not required to succeed.
FromSoftware 'Sincerely Apologizes' for The Duskbloods Network Test 'Server Issues,' Ends First Slot Early
FromSoftware has apologized for server issues encountered during the first day of The Duskbloods network test. Due to these problems, the testing period was cut short after the initial slot.
Will The Duskbloods be on PC and consoles?
The Duskbloods is currently a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, with no immediate plans for release on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X. While FromSoftware owns the IP and collaborated with Nintendo, there's a possibility of a multiplatform release after an initial exclusivity period, similar to Monster Hunter: Rise. The article also touches on the exclusivity of Bloodborne on PlayStation 4 due to Sony's ownership of the IP.