In a recent interview with FromSoftware's president Hidetaka Miyazaki, more details have been revealed about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, The Duskbloods. This upcoming game has garnered significant attention from fans of the Soulsborne series and gamers alike, with its promise of a unique blend of action, role-playing, and multiplayer elements. Here's a comprehensive look at what we've learned so far.

Multiple Playable Characters: The Bloodsworn

One of the most intriguing aspects of The Duskbloods is the introduction of multiple playable characters known as Bloodsworn. These characters are described as being similar to vampires but not adhering to traditional vampiric tropes. Miyazaki mentioned that there are over a dozen characters available for players to choose from, each with their own distinct identity, weapons, and appearance. This level of variety ensures that players can find a character that resonates with their playstyle and preferences.

Moreover, each Bloodsworn character can be extensively customized. Players have the ability to alter their character’s blood history and fate, which in turn allows customization of abilities, appearance, inner characteristics, roles, and relationships with other characters. This means that players can not only change their character’s cosmetic appearance but also tweak their gameplay abilities to create a truly unique experience. This level of customization is a significant departure from traditional FromSoftware games, which have typically focused on more rigid character classes.

Dynamic Abilities and Gameplay

The Bloodsworn are equipped with superhuman abilities that set them apart from ordinary beings. These abilities include amplified sprinting, super jump, and double jump, allowing for a more dynamic and fast-paced gameplay experience. Miyazaki emphasized that the actions in The Duskbloods are more dramatic than anything seen in previous FromSoftware titles. This suggests a shift towards a more action-oriented gameplay style, potentially offering a fresh take on the Soulsborne formula.

The game's setting, described as the "Twilight of Humanity," adds an eerie and atmospheric backdrop to the action. Players will navigate through a world that is not tied to a specific era, meaning they might encounter traditional Gothic- or Victorian-style maps. This blend of historical aesthetics with supernatural elements promises a rich and immersive world to explore.

Player-based Interactions and Roles

Another innovative feature of The Duskbloods is the introduction of roles. These roles are special responsibilities and objectives that players will have in online play, leading to unique interactions and relationships between players. Miyazaki provided two examples to illustrate these roles:

1. Destined Rivals: In this role, players are tasked with seeking out and defeating their designated rival. This creates a competitive dynamic where players must actively hunt down and confront specific opponents, adding a layer of strategic depth to the multiplayer experience.
2. Designated Companion: This role involves finding other players, turning them into allies, and receiving a special reward. This encourages cooperation and teamwork, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among players.
3. These roles can be assigned to any character via blood customization, allowing players to enjoy role-playing in a literal sense. This system adds a new dimension to the multiplayer experience, making it more interactive and engaging.

FromSoftware's Commitment to Single-Player Experiences

With the release of Elden Ring: Nightreign and The Duskbloods, some fans have expressed concerns that FromSoftware might be shifting its focus towards multiplayer games. However, Miyazaki reassured players that the company has no intention of abandoning single-player experiences. He confirmed that FromSoftware will continue to actively develop single-player focused games, ensuring that fans of the traditional Soulsborne formula will still have plenty to look forward to.

Multiplayer and PvPvE Elements

The Duskbloods features an 8-player PvPvE multiplayer mode, which combines both player-versus-player and player-versus-environment elements. This mode promises intense and varied gameplay, as players must navigate the challenges of both human opponents and the game's AI-driven enemies. This blend of multiplayer and single-player elements is designed to offer a rich and diverse experience, catering to both competitive and cooperative playstyles.

Conclusion

The Duskbloods is shaping up to be a unique and exciting entry in the FromSoftware catalog. With its multiple playable characters, extensive customization options, dynamic abilities, and innovative multiplayer roles, it promises a fresh and engaging experience for both new and veteran players. While the game introduces new elements and mechanics, Miyazaki's assurance that FromSoftware will continue to support single-player experiences is a welcome relief for fans of the traditional Soulsborne formula.

As we await the official release, the details revealed so far have only heightened anticipation for The Duskbloods. Whether you're a fan of FromSoftware's previous titles or a newcomer to the series, there's plenty to be excited about in this upcoming adventure. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we get closer to the game's release date.