FromSoftware’s New Switch 2 Exclusive Beats Elden Ring Nightreign in Hype
The Duskbloods closed network test attracted more player applications than Elden Ring Nightreign, despite the Switch 2 exclusive's smaller potential audience.
The update
FromSoftware’s upcoming multiplayer shooter The Duskbloods has generated significant interest ahead of its release. The developer revealed that the closed network test concluded yesterday with more player applications than its previous multiplayer experiment, Elden Ring Nightreign.
Despite the comparison, The Duskbloods is a Switch 2 exclusive, whereas Nightreign launched on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and Xbox One. The game’s producer, Yasuhiro Kitao, expressed surprise at the high volume of interest.
Why it matters
This data point challenges the assumption that platform exclusivity limits a game’s hype. The Duskbloods is proving that a smaller, dedicated user base can generate demand comparable to a multi-platform release. It also highlights the growing appetite for new IP from FromSoftware, a studio known for high-profile releases.
What to watch
Developers will be closely watching whether this test interest translates into day-one sales. Kitao has already hinted that the team is curious if The Duskbloods will outperform Nightreign in launch numbers, despite the Switch 2’s smaller installed base compared to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S combined.
Sources
- eurogamer.net — Application numbers and producer comments.
- gamespot.com — Producer's surprise at the response and platform context.