# FromSoftware The Duskbloods release preparations > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/fromsoftware-the-duskbloods-release-preparations > Updated: 2026-08-24T18:59:47.000Z. Sources: 81. Developments: 6. FromSoftware is preparing for a network test of its upcoming multiplayer title, The Duskbloods, scheduled for 21–24 August 2026. The test is reported to be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 and requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. Selected participants are expected to receive download codes on 18 August to access the test via the Nintendo eShop. New gameplay footage leaked on Bilibili and Streamable has provided further insight into the title, showcasing fast-paced PvPvE combat in an arena identified as ‘Moon Blood Bestowal’. Mechanics highlighted include rapid weapon switching, aerial attacks, finishers, and indications of a class-based system involving 14 rumored archetypes. Game director Hidetaka Miyazaki clarified that while the game is labeled PvPvE, it does not follow the extraction shooter genre, instead incorporating elements of tabletop RPGs and board games. Players, known as ‘Bloodsworn’, compete in a round-based system for ‘Virtue’ points to qualify for a final showdown. Miyazaki noted the studio remains committed to single-player content despite this multiplayer focus. As the network test approached, the initial closed session on 21 August faced significant server connectivity issues, with many participants unable to log in or becoming stuck on the main menu. FromSoftware cancelled the session and issued an apology, stating they are working on improvements. To address these hurdles, a second test was subsequently scheduled to verify fixes. Following the testing period, producer Yasuhiro Kitao reported that registration numbers for the test exceeded those of the studio’s previous multiplatform title, Elden Ring: Nightreign, despite the limited hardware base of the Switch 2. While the community showed interest in character designs like ‘Zork’, technical feedback remained mixed, with players reporting latency, server congestion, and framerate dips. Some players also described the game’s complex mechanics and rules as ‘convoluted or unpolished’. ## Claims - FromSoftware is developing The Duskbloods, a PvPvE multiplayer title. (corroborated by 4 sources) - The game utilizes a PvEvP mechanic where players fight both each other and bosses. (corroborated by 4 sources) - A two-minute gameplay video of The Duskbloods leaked on Bilibili. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The game features 14 playable classes according to previous leaks. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The Duskbloods is intended for the Nintendo Switch 2. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Players can use blood-sucking mechanics to damage enemies or turn NPCs into allies. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-08-24: FromSoftware's The Duskbloods sees high interest in Switch 2 network test FromSoftware’s upcoming Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, saw higher network test interest than Elden Ring Nightreign, featuring a unique PvPvE 'Dusk Battle' system and skill-based matchmaking. 17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fromsoftwares-the-duskbloods-undergoes-network-test ### 2026-08-22: FromSoftware develops The Duskbloods for Nintendo Switch 2 FromSoftware is developing The Duskbloods for Nintendo Switch 2. Despite recent network test failures, Miyazaki confirms the title will use skill-based matchmaking and remains part of a broader single-player-fв 19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fromsoftwares-the-duskbloods-receives-first-player-impressions ### 2026-08-20: Nintendo denies September release date for The Duskbloods amid gameplay leaks Leaked gameplay for FromSoftware’s ‘The Duskbloods’ has surfaced online, while Nintendo has officially denied rumors of a September 24 release date. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nintendo-denies-september-release-date-for-the-duskbloods-amid-gameplay-leaks ### 2026-08-20: FromSoftware's The Duskbloods faces server issues during first network test FromSoftware's The Duskbloods closed network test faced early cancellation due to server issues. Hidetaka Miyazaki reassured fans that the studio remains committed to single-player games despite recent titles. 54 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fromsoftwares-the-duskbloods-gameplay-leaks-ahead-of-network-test ### 2026-08-18: FromSoftware's The Duskbloods leaks gameplay and character classes Leaked gameplay and character class details have emerged for FromSoftware’s upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, ahead of its closed beta test in late August. 11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fromsoftwares-the-duskbloods-character-classes-leaked ### 2026-08-07: FromSoftware's The Duskbloods Network Test Results Available FromSoftware’s The Duskbloods network test applicants can now check results; selected players will download the test on 18 August for the 21‑24 August trial on Nintendo Switch 2. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fromsoftwares-the-duskbloods-network-test-results-available --- Cite as: FromSoftware The Duskbloods release preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/fromsoftware-the-duskbloods-release-preparations