The most surprising reveal during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was undoubtedly the announcement of a new third-party game by FromSoftware titled The Duskbloods. This game, set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, bears notable resemblances to the beloved PlayStation 4 exclusive, Bloodborne.
In The Duskbloods, players assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a faction that has transcended humanity through the power of special blood. The game's core concept revolves around a fierce melee combat system where players compete to become the "First Blood." FromSoftware confirmed in a press release that The Duskbloods is a PvPvE title, emphasizing "online multiplayer at its core" with up to eight players battling it out for supremacy. While the game's thematic elements like blood, guns, and machinery echo Bloodborne, it also shares similarities with the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, particularly in its multiplayer focus.
Although details are sparse beyond some eerie glimpses of beasts and bosses, the announcement has sparked a wide range of reactions among Bloodborne fans. One Reddit user exclaimed, "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" while another speculated, "That game is 100% Bloodborne 2. I assume the name change is either because it's in a different setting, or because of Sony exclusivity."
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Dusk Bloods
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While The Duskbloods is a distinct game, its connections to Bloodborne are evident, leading fans to view it as a spiritual successor. Unlike the Souls games and Elden Ring, which have expanded to other platforms, Bloodborne has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive, fueling fans' long-standing desire for a port, sequel, or related title. One commenter humorously remarked, "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves," highlighting the exclusivity of The Duskbloods to the Nintendo Switch 2.
The initial excitement among Bloodborne fans has been tempered by the realization that The Duskbloods will be a PvPvE experience, diverging from the traditional single-player RPGs typically produced by FromSoftware. This shift towards a battle royale-style game, combined with the exclusivity to the Switch 2, has led to mixed feelings among the community.
More details about The Duskbloods are expected soon, with Nintendo planning to release an interview with director Hidetaka Miyazaki on April 4. This interview should provide further insight into the game's mechanics, the nature of its PvPvE elements, and whether it can fulfill the long-held hopes of Bloodborne enthusiasts.
For comprehensive coverage of all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out our detailed recap.
