FromSoftware's upcoming Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods, attracted unexpectedly strong interest during its recent closed network test, the developer revealed during a Famitsu livestream.
Producer Yasuhiro Kitao told viewers the studio was surprised that the number of applicants for The Duskbloods' network test exceeded those who signed up for last year's Elden Ring: Nightreign playtest.
Kitao said the team did not anticipate such high turnout for the Switch 2 test, noting that Nightreign's playtest initially flew under the radar for some players because it focused on multiplayer components and that many players discovered and enjoyed Nightreign only after launch.
The comment was made on Famitsu's livestream and shared directly by the producer during the event.
The Duskbloods is positioned as FromSoftware's first major outing targeted to Nintendo's next console, the Nintendo Switch 2.
Selected participants from the closed network test were able to download the build via Nintendo's eShop, with media outlets — including writers at Nintendo Wire — reporting hands-on access through the test window.
FromSoftware's parent company, Kadokawa, has reiterated that The Duskbloods remains scheduled for release on Switch 2 in 2026, though the developer has not supplied a firm release date.
FromSoftware is widely known for its work on the Soulsborne catalog and Elden Ring, which has shaped expectations for the studio's future projects.
The Duskbloods' early network test interest marks a notable sign of enthusiasm for the studio's move onto Nintendo's new hardware, especially given the Switch 2's position as a next-generation platform with a different install base than PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The studio has so far released limited official details about gameplay structure and online systems; what is public is confined to comments made during promotional streams and the controlled network test.
For now, players can look to official FromSoftware and Kadokawa announcements for confirmed dates and further eShop availability.
Given the planned 2026 window, more formal showcases—potentially including future Nintendo Direct segments—are likely candidates for official updates as the release year approaches.
Producer Yasuhiro Kitao told viewers the studio was surprised that the number of applicants for The Duskbloods' network test exceeded those who signed up for last year's Elden Ring: Nightreign playtest.
Kitao said the team did not anticipate such high turnout for the Switch 2 test, noting that Nightreign's playtest initially flew under the radar for some players because it focused on multiplayer components and that many players discovered and enjoyed Nightreign only after launch.
The comment was made on Famitsu's livestream and shared directly by the producer during the event.
The Duskbloods is positioned as FromSoftware's first major outing targeted to Nintendo's next console, the Nintendo Switch 2.
Selected participants from the closed network test were able to download the build via Nintendo's eShop, with media outlets — including writers at Nintendo Wire — reporting hands-on access through the test window.
FromSoftware's parent company, Kadokawa, has reiterated that The Duskbloods remains scheduled for release on Switch 2 in 2026, though the developer has not supplied a firm release date.
FromSoftware is widely known for its work on the Soulsborne catalog and Elden Ring, which has shaped expectations for the studio's future projects.
The Duskbloods' early network test interest marks a notable sign of enthusiasm for the studio's move onto Nintendo's new hardware, especially given the Switch 2's position as a next-generation platform with a different install base than PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The studio has so far released limited official details about gameplay structure and online systems; what is public is confined to comments made during promotional streams and the controlled network test.
For now, players can look to official FromSoftware and Kadokawa announcements for confirmed dates and further eShop availability.
Given the planned 2026 window, more formal showcases—potentially including future Nintendo Direct segments—are likely candidates for official updates as the release year approaches.
