The Duskbloods is poised to arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2, but what’s particularly intriguing is its humble beginnings as a passion project meant for the original Switch. In an insightful update via the Creator’s Voice blog, Hidetaka Miyazaki of FromSoftware unveiled how this eerie PvPvE multiplayer game was initially conceived with just a handful of ideas and a tightly knit development team. He shared:
“At first it was being worked on by a small team as a title for Nintendo Switch. However, just as the game started to take shape, we were approached by Nintendo with talk of Switch 2, which led us to revamp our development path with this new hardware in mind.”
The introduction of the Switch 2 substantially transformed the project. With the new platform’s capabilities, the development team was able to broaden their original vision, particularly in enhancing the online infrastructure. This pivotal moment enabled them to create a more authentic rendition of The Duskbloods.
From Humble Beginnings to Grand Ambitions
Miyazaki characterizes The Duskbloods as a PvPvE multiplayer experience where players engage in combat against each other and the environment in chaotic online sessions. Although the atmosphere diverges from the moods of Dark Souls or Sekiro, it still features formidable enemies and unexpected challenges.
Players will assume the role of the Bloodsworn, supernatural fighters empowered by an enigmatic source of blood. While these characters draw some elements from traditional vampire lore, Miyazaki emphasized they are not depicted as mere monsters.
These heroic warriors find themselves amidst an apocalyptic scenario known as the Twilight of Humanity, where they clash across multiple timelines for a coveted prize called First Blood—a representation of ultimate power existing in a world on the brink of collapse.
Decoding the Title: What Does The Duskbloods Mean?
If you’re curious about the significance of the title, Miyazaki clarified this aspect as well. The term The Duskbloods specifically designates the Bloodsworn. It signifies individuals burdened with extraordinary power, summoned throughout time to vie for supremacy while humanity faces its end.
Interestingly, the game does not confine itself to a singular historical timeline. Players will traverse between various settings, including war-ravaged cities reminiscent of Victorian times and crumbling industrial zones. One of the maps even features a dramatic train cutting through the chaos, vividly displayed in the trailer.
Blood, embodying a pivotal theme of the game, links these diverse elements together. Miyazaki elaborated:
“Blood symbolizes one of the game’s key themes — the history it holds, the power it passes on, the fates it weaves, and the marker of those who have surpassed the limitations of their own humanity.”
Solo Play Modes Are Still Alive — A New Direction
While The Duskbloods emphasizes multiplayer engagement, Miyazaki reassured fans that FromSoftware remains committed to its roots. He reiterated the studio’s dedication to solo-focused experiences, such as Elden Ring, which will also be making an appearance on the Nintendo Switch 2.
This new title represents an experimental venture for the studio, stemming from an unexpected pitch that has since evolved into a more expansive project.