No, FromSoftware’s brand-new IP isn’t a direct sequel to Bloodborne or its spiritual successor, though at first glance, it might give the impression of being one.
While anticipation builds for the imminent release of Elden Ring: Nightreign, set to launch next month on PC and consoles, FromSoftware had been quietly working behind the scenes on a completely unannounced project—one that had remained shrouded in mystery for quite some time. That was, at least, until yesterday, when the acclaimed Japanese studio took the stage during the Nintendo Direct dedicated to the Nintendo Switch 2, leaving audiences stunned with the reveal of a brand-new IP.
The project in question is The Duskbloods, a dark, multiplayer-focused action game directed by none other than Hidetaka Miyazaki—the visionary creator of Dark Souls and the mastermind behind many of FromSoftware’s most celebrated works. Set to launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2, the game is scheduled for release in 2026.
What is The Duskbloods: First details and insights into FromSoftware’s new IP
Let’s start by clarifying what The Duskbloods is—and, perhaps more importantly, what it is not. While FromSoftware has already provided some initial details about their new IP in a dedicated post on their X account, allow us to provide a brief refresher.
The Duskbloods is not a sequel to Bloodborne, nor, despite certain elements that may invite such comparisons, is it a true spiritual successor to one of FromSoftware’s most iconic titles. Instead, it is a PvPvE-focused multiplayer action game—one that, in our assessment, draws substantial influence from the studio’s signature art design and world-building, particularly as seen in Bloodborne and Elden Ring. However, it carves out its own identity, defined by a captivating steampunk aesthetic that permeates its world that infuses its world and shapes the plight of its unfortunate inhabitants.
In The Duskbloods, players take on the role of the “Bloodsworn”—a group of warriors who have transcended human limitations through the power of their unique blood. As the twilight of humanity looms, these fierce fighters are thrust into violent struggles for “First Blood,“ where only the most formidable will endure.
Game map, core mechanics, open-world level design, and a first glimpse at the playable classes—what does The Duskbloods reveal trailer truly unveil?
The three-minute reveal trailer unveiled by FromSoftware during the Nintendo Direct, while extensive, offered only a fleeting glimpse into what the studio’s new IP has in store. Though many details remain deliberately concealed, keen-eyed viewers were able to spot several intriguing elements, including an early look at the game’s map and some of The Duskbloods’ distinctive gameplay mechanics.
One of the most prominent features showcased is the return of a dedicated jump mechanic—first introduced in FromSoftware’s Soulsborne series with Elden Ring—which appears to be an integral part of traversal and combat in this new title. Another striking moment in the trailer shows a character sinking their teeth into an enemy, seemingly draining their life force—potentially alluding to a power absorption system that could play a pivotal role in gameplay.
The trailer also provides a deeper look at the game’s art direction and open-world design, with particular attention to several environments that, while drawing upon gothic architectural influences reminiscent of Yharnam and the atmospheric tones of The Lands Between, establish a distinctive and original identity. This unique aesthetic is further enriched by the infusion of prominent steampunk elements, which lend the world an industrial yet enigmatic allure. A striking example of this fusion is a brief shot of a train speeding along its tracks.
However, the steampunk influence in The Duskbloods goes well beyond the environmental design, extending to the meticulous crafting of the characters and their equipment. One of the most striking reveals is a captivating flying contraption—an early prototype of what could be described as a modern jetpack.
The reveal trailer also highlighted several boss encounters, along with a diverse range of character types, each showcasing unique abilities, weapons, and combat techniques. This prompts an intriguing question: could these glimpses serve as an early preview of the playable classes available to players? At this stage, we cannot confirm this theory, as it remains purely speculative.
Further insights and details will be revealed in Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice interview with Miyazaki on April 4th
If the trailer and information released so far haven’t fully satisfied your curiosity about FromSoftware’s upcoming IP, fear not—there’s much more to come. Nintendo has announced that tomorrow, April 4th, it will unveil a new installment in its “Creator’s Voice” developer interview series, featuring Hidetaka Miyazaki, the game’s director, with the promise of many exciting new revelations.
To stay up to date with the latest developments, be sure to follow our pages and visit FromSoftware’s official website for all the upcoming news.
That’s all for now. Until next time!
