Duskbloods network test impressions
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
FromSoftware's The Duskbloods network test starts Aug 21 on Switch 2, featuring 8-player PvPvE. It blends Bloodborne's dodge with Elden Ring's jump, offering no death penalty.
Background
The Duskbloods is FromSoftware's newest game, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2, focusing on online PvPvE battles with up to 8 players. It departs from previous Souls games, similar to Elden Ring Nightreign. The network test runs from August 21 to 24, giving players a first hands-on look at the gameplay.
How it unfolded
- Aug 19, 2026Nintendo Life runs a poll asking if readers got into the network test, with some reporting selection.
- Aug 20, 2026Media outlets publish first impressions from early access, detailing gameplay mechanics like quadruple jumps and air dashes.
- Aug 20, 2026A gameplay video leaks ahead of the network test, showing fast-paced combat.
- Aug 21, 2026Network test begins for selected players; FromSoftware reminds participants not to share screenshots.
Who’s saying what
- Media
- Gamespot praises the game as unlike anything they've played, highlighting its unique blend of mechanics.
- Players
- Some players express excitement about the test, while others worry about potential connection issues and PvP focus.
Still unverified
Leaked gameplay footage is unofficial and may not represent the final product. Performance reports from early previews are based on a network test build and may differ from the release version.