In a recent interview with Nintendo, renowned game director Hidetaka Miyazaki addressed concerns about FromSoftware’s shift towards multiplayer gaming. Known for their dark fantasy single-player epics such as Elden Ring and the Dark Souls series, the studio is now venturing into two multiplayer games. One of these is The Duskbloods, a Switch 2 exclusive that was discussed in detail during a multi-part interview. This new title features an intriguing PvPvE format and offers players a range of customizable characters known as "Bloodsworn." Despite its multiplayer focus, Miyazaki reassures fans of the studio's commitment to developing traditional single-player experiences like Elden Ring for the Nintendo Switch 2.

During the extensive interview, Hidetaka Miyazaki elaborated on The Duskbloods, which marks a significant departure from the studio's usual style. Set in a gothic Victorian world, this game introduces players to "Bloodsworn," characters with superhuman abilities derived from consuming special blood. Unlike conventional vampires, these protagonists are not portrayed as terrifying monsters. Players can choose from over a dozen Bloodsworn, each offering unique abilities and customization options, reminiscent of class-based systems seen in other titles but with distinct personalization possibilities.

The gameplay revolves around competing for "first blood" across various maps, with objectives varying between rounds. While some rounds require players to eliminate each other, others demand cooperation to defeat formidable bosses. Additionally, players can earn "victory points" through non-combat activities, catering to those who prefer less aggressive playstyles. Miyazaki himself acknowledges his limited interest in PvP, emphasizing the game's design to satisfy diverse player preferences.

Beyond its multiplayer mechanics, The Duskbloods embeds rich lore that potentially links to previous Souls titles. Notably, the winged rat featured in the trailer is revealed to be an elderly gentleman akin to the fire keepers from Dark Souls, acting as an NPC offering guidance in the hub world. This element appeals to fans of FromSoftware's deep storytelling tradition, even within a multiplayer context.

While The Duskbloods diverges from the single-player-centric model typical of FromSoftware, it represents an exciting exploration of new gaming paradigms. Fans will have a taste of the studio's multiplayer vision with the upcoming release of Elden Ring Nightreign in late May, while The Duskbloods is slated for a 2026 launch, giving Miyazaki ample time to refine this innovative project.