FromSoftware Stays Committed To Single Player Despite Duskbloods

The Duskbloods may be the newest title from FromSoftware, but according to creator Hidetaka Miyazaki, its multiplayer orientation does not signify a shift in the company’s overall direction. In a recent Creator’s Voice blog post by Nintendo, Miyazaki elaborated on the discussions that led to the game’s announcement and the design choices made by FromSoftware.

Despite emphasizing a multiplayer aspect in The Duskbloods, Miyazaki clarified that this does not imply a definitive move towards multiplayer games for future projects. The announcement of a Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring further supports this, as the studio remains committed to developing single-player experiences that maintain their traditional roots.

The unveiling of the new game generated much enthusiasm, even as some fans voiced worries about the potential decline of FromSoftware’s focus on single-player narratives. With the launch of The Duskbloods and the upcoming multiplayer-oriented Elden Ring: Nightreign, there were concerns that the franchise’s signature challenging gameplay might be compromised. Miyazaki reassured fans that this will not be the case.

The Duskbloods originated as a project intended for the original Nintendo Switch. Initially, FromSoftware assembled a small team to develop the game. However, upon learning about the Switch 2 from Nintendo, the company reconsidered its strategy, allowing them to enhance the game while keeping true to its initial vision, especially with the new console’s emphasis on online capabilities.

“We envision the game as a PvPvE title,” Miyazaki shared. “At its heart, it’s an online, multiplayer-centric experience that integrates both player versus player and player versus enemy interactions.” This concept isn’t entirely new for FromSoftware, as earlier titles like Dark Souls and Elden Ring featured PvPvE mechanics like player invasions and cooperative assistance against tougher foes.

In The Duskbloods, these elements will play a more significant role, with much of the game’s lore and world-building being uncovered during the character creation phase. Miyazaki further discussed a feature called “roles.”

For instance, if a player has the “Destined Rivals” role, another player will become their rival and must locate and defeat them, achieving a personal milestone distinct from the main objectives. Alternatively, the “Destined Companion” role requires one player to find another designated as their companion, yielding special rewards if they forge a connection. These roles can be assigned through blood customization, allowing players to experience a form of role-playing that enhances the narrative tension of their interactions.

Miyazaki concluded the interview by stating, “With superhuman player abilities, a versatile combat system, dynamic gameplay, and the beautifully romanticized aesthetics of the Bloodsworn, along with deep character customization and fragmented storytelling, there’s so much to appreciate in this title. I truly hope players are excited about it.”