One of the most surprising announcements during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was the reveal of a third-party game by FromSoftware, titled The Duskbloods. This new title, set to launch worldwide in 2026 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, bears striking resemblances to the PlayStation 4 exclusive, Bloodborne.
In The Duskbloods, players will assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group transformed beyond humanity through the power of special blood. The game challenges players to engage in intense melee combat to become the "First Blood." According to a press release from FromSoftware, The Duskbloods is a PvPvE game with "online multiplayer at its core," allowing up to eight players to compete simultaneously. While it evokes the atmosphere of Bloodborne, it also shares elements with the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, though with a stronger focus on PvP rather than just co-op PvE.
The announcement included cryptic teases and glimpses of horrifying beasts and bosses, stirring a range of reactions among Bloodborne fans. One Reddit user exclaimed, "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" while another speculated, "That game is 100% Bloodborne 2. I assume the name change is either because it's in a different setting, or because of Sony exclusivity."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Duskbloods
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Despite its differences, The Duskbloods is seen by many as a spiritual successor to Bloodborne. While other FromSoftware titles like the Souls series and Elden Ring have expanded to other platforms, Bloodborne has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive. Fans have long awaited a port, sequel, or any related development, and some have jokingly suggested, "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves." It's noteworthy that, like Bloodborne, The Duskbloods will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.
The announcement has sparked excitement among the Bloodborne community, though some fans are tempering their enthusiasm upon learning that The Duskbloods is a PvPvE experience, rather than the expected single-player RPG from FromSoftware. Discussions on forums reflect a mix of anticipation and concern about the game's multiplayer focus and exclusivity to the Switch 2.
More details about The Duskbloods will be revealed soon, with an interview featuring director Hidetaka Miyazaki scheduled for April 4 on Nintendo's website. This interview is expected to clarify the game's mechanics, the nature of its PvPvE elements, and its potential to satisfy the long-held hopes of Bloodborne enthusiasts.
For a full rundown of all announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out our comprehensive recap.
