Intro
FromSoftware and Nintendo have set a firm schedule for the upcoming network test of The Duskbloods, the studio’s next multiplayer-capable title showcased during a recent Nintendo Direct.
While a final release date was not announced during the presentation, Nintendo confirmed the multiplayer network test will run in late August and opened an application window in July for interested Switch players.
Test dates, times and application window
Nintendo announced the network test will run across five sessions from 21 August to 24 August.
The scheduled windows (all in CEST) are:
- 21 August (Friday): 12:00–16:00 CEST
- 22 August (Saturday): 04:00–08:00 CEST and 20:00–00:00 CEST
- 23 August (Sunday): 12:00–16:00 CEST
- 24 August (Monday): 04:00–08:00 CEST
Applications for participation open on 22 July and close on 28 July.
Successful applicants will be notified on 7 August.
Nintendo has directed players to the official site for application links and further details.
Participation requirements and restrictions
FromSoftware has confirmed the test will support matches of up to eight players.
The developer warned that players should expect an imperfect build; the company framed the event primarily as a systems test to evaluate server load, multiplayer stability and in‑game balance rather than a full preview of final content.
In journalistic terms: FromSoftware advised participants that the build may contain bugs and that the principal goals are to stress-test servers, identify multiplayer anomalies, and validate game balance.
Nintendo also confirmed participation requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.
In addition, FromSoftware has placed content restrictions on the test: players will not be permitted to capture screenshots or video clips during sessions.
The developer stated it will disable the capture function on Switch 2 hardware for the duration of gameplay to enforce that rule.
Context and related releases
The network test represents an early opportunity to assess The Duskbloods’ multiplayer systems ahead of the full launch.
Separately, FromSoftware fans can expect the release of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition on 28 August 2026, a date already on the calendar for the studio’s broader release schedule.
What to watch for
Players accepted into the test will provide critical feedback on server performance and multiplayer functionality.
Keep an eye on Nintendo’s official channels and FromSoftware’s announcements for any changes to timing, participation instructions, or additional test details.
FromSoftware and Nintendo have set a firm schedule for the upcoming network test of The Duskbloods, the studio’s next multiplayer-capable title showcased during a recent Nintendo Direct.
While a final release date was not announced during the presentation, Nintendo confirmed the multiplayer network test will run in late August and opened an application window in July for interested Switch players.
Test dates, times and application window
Nintendo announced the network test will run across five sessions from 21 August to 24 August.
The scheduled windows (all in CEST) are:
- 21 August (Friday): 12:00–16:00 CEST
- 22 August (Saturday): 04:00–08:00 CEST and 20:00–00:00 CEST
- 23 August (Sunday): 12:00–16:00 CEST
- 24 August (Monday): 04:00–08:00 CEST
Applications for participation open on 22 July and close on 28 July.
Successful applicants will be notified on 7 August.
Nintendo has directed players to the official site for application links and further details.
Participation requirements and restrictions
FromSoftware has confirmed the test will support matches of up to eight players.
The developer warned that players should expect an imperfect build; the company framed the event primarily as a systems test to evaluate server load, multiplayer stability and in‑game balance rather than a full preview of final content.
In journalistic terms: FromSoftware advised participants that the build may contain bugs and that the principal goals are to stress-test servers, identify multiplayer anomalies, and validate game balance.
Nintendo also confirmed participation requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.
In addition, FromSoftware has placed content restrictions on the test: players will not be permitted to capture screenshots or video clips during sessions.
The developer stated it will disable the capture function on Switch 2 hardware for the duration of gameplay to enforce that rule.
Context and related releases
The network test represents an early opportunity to assess The Duskbloods’ multiplayer systems ahead of the full launch.
Separately, FromSoftware fans can expect the release of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition on 28 August 2026, a date already on the calendar for the studio’s broader release schedule.
What to watch for
Players accepted into the test will provide critical feedback on server performance and multiplayer functionality.
Keep an eye on Nintendo’s official channels and FromSoftware’s announcements for any changes to timing, participation instructions, or additional test details.
