Get ready to step back into the realm of Elden Ring, Tarnished. If you had thought your journey ended with the recent DLC, FromSoftware is prepared to astonish you with a new title. Elden Ring Nightreign made its surprising entry at The Game Awards 2024, establishing itself as one of the most eagerly awaited titles for the PlayStation 5, rivaling Ghost of Yotei and GTA 6. However, this isn't simply a sequel in the form of Elden Ring 2. Rather, Elden Ring Nightreign promises to be the studio's most innovative game to date, even with its familiar branding. You can count on our assistance to discover all there is to know about Elden Ring Nightreign.
This title is another addition to the exciting lineup for the Xbox Series X and PC, but unfortunately, it won’t be available for Switch.
Release Date Window
As of now, Elden Ring Nightreign is expected to launch sometime in 2025. FromSoftware is known for its rapid development cycles, but considering they just released the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in the summer of 2024, it’s reasonable to anticipate at least a year between this and the next game release.
Platforms
Trailers
We got our first look at Elden Ring Nightreign during The Game Awards 2024 with an exciting gameplay trailer. We witnessed the game's unique arena, Limveld, which serves as a parallel universe to Limgrave from the original title. A character is seen fleeing from a converging blue magical circle while a narrator spins a tale about “seekers of redemption” drawn together by an enigmatic force.
The narrative features various speakers and is cryptic, typical of a FromSoftware creation. Based on the game structure we'll describe in the next section, it's likely that the storyline won’t play a pivotal role in Elden Ring Nightreign.
Gameplay
Hardcore fans might have mixed feelings about the gameplay shift in Elden Ring Nightreign. Instead of sticking to the traditional action RPG formula of Elden Ring or Dark Souls, this title embraces a three-player cooperative roguelite approach. Players will select specific character classes and dive into a realm filled with random foes, locations, bosses, and treasures. Additionally, a gradually closing barrier will be present, resembling elements from a battle royale game. However, it’s essential to note that Elden Ring Nightreign exclusively features PvE mechanics; it has no player-versus-player aspects. Surviving until the area shrinks will lead you to a final boss encounter pre-selected at the start of your mission.
Currently, four confirmed classes include:
Wylder: An armored knight wielding a longsword.
Duchess: A nimble rogue equipped with a dagger.
Guardia: A heavily armed tank-like warrior.
Recluse: The party's spellcaster.
While there’s mention of eight classes in total, these are the only ones confirmed for now. Custom character creation isn’t an option, as each class comes equipped with unique weapons, abilities, and ultimates. For instance, we see Wylder using a grappling hook to engage with foes or maneuver around the environment. All characters will apparently utilize magical birds for aerial navigation and showcase parkour abilities, such as running up walls.
Combat appears to retain the familiar mechanics from Elden Ring with stamina management, dodging, as well as light and heavy attacks. However, movement pace seems to be faster, with the absence of Torrent and no fall damage.
The trailer revealed several returning adversaries and bosses, not only from Elden Ring but also from earlier FromSoftware titles that fans may recognize.
We’re still awaiting clarity on whether progress from one adventure will be carried over for future tries.
Preorder
Preorders for Elden Ring Nightreign are not yet available, but you can add it to your wishlist. Additionally, a network test will take place on PS5 and Xbox Series X in February, with sign-ups starting January 10.
