The most intriguing announcement from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was a third-party game revealed towards the end of the showcase. FromSoftware, the renowned developer behind critically acclaimed titles, is working on a new game titled The Duskbloods, which shares some notable similarities with the fan-favorite PlayStation 4 exclusive, Bloodborne.
The Duskbloods is a brand-new title, set to launch worldwide in 2026, and will be exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch 2. In this game, players assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group that has transcended humanity through the use of special blood. The gameplay revolves around a fierce melee competition to become the "First Blood."
According to a press release from FromSoftware, The Duskbloods is designed as a PvPvE title with "online multiplayer at its core," allowing up to eight players to compete for victory. While the game evokes the atmosphere of Bloodborne with its emphasis on blood, guns, and machinery, it also draws parallels to the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, albeit with a focus on PvP rather than solely co-op PvE.
Although the reveal was sparse on details, offering only cryptic teases and glimpses of horrifying beasts and bosses, it has sparked a wide range of reactions among Bloodborne fans.
"BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" exclaimed one enthusiast on the r/Bloodborne subreddit. Another fan theorized, "That game is 100% Bloodborne 2. The name change likely stems from either a new setting or the exclusivity deal with Sony."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Dusk Bloods
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While The Duskbloods presents a fresh take, its connections to Bloodborne are evident, leading fans to consider it a spiritual successor. Although FromSoftware's Souls series and Elden Ring have ventured onto various platforms—with Elden Ring even slated for a "Tarnished Edition" on the Switch 2—Bloodborne has remained a steadfast PlayStation 4 exclusive, never migrating to PC. This has fueled fans' long-standing desire for a port, sequel, or any form of continuation.
"Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves," speculated one fan. Another pointed out the exclusivity of The Duskbloods to the Nintendo Switch 2, drawing parallels to Bloodborne's own exclusive status. "Bloodborne was always an exclusive, this is on brand," they noted.
The announcement has reignited the fervor among Bloodborne enthusiasts, but reality has started to sink in with the understanding that The Duskbloods leans towards a battle royale-style game rather than the traditional single-player RPG experience expected from FromSoftware.
The excitement of some fans has waned upon learning that The Duskbloods emphasizes a PvPvE experience. Discussions on forums reveal a mix of reactions, with some expressing diminished enthusiasm due to the focus on multiplayer and the exclusivity to the Switch 2.
Further details about The Duskbloods are expected soon, as Nintendo plans to release an interview with director Hidetaka Miyazaki on its website on April 4. This interview is anticipated to clarify the gameplay mechanics, the nature of the PvPvE elements, and whether this new title can truly satisfy the long-held hopes of Bloodborne fans.
For comprehensive coverage of all announcements from today's stream, make sure to explore our recap of everything unveiled at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.
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