"Bloodborne Fans Excited for Switch 2 Exclusive: The Duskbloods"

One of the most unexpected announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was the reveal of a third-party game by FromSoftware. Titled "The Duskbloods," this new game, set to launch in 2026 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2, bears a striking resemblance 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 use of special blood. The game promises a fierce melee combat experience where players compete to become the "First Blood." According to a press release from FromSoftware, The Duskbloods is a PvPvE game with "online multiplayer at its core," accommodating up to eight players in a battle for supremacy. While it echoes Bloodborne with its themes of blood and machinery, it also shares similarities with the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, albeit with a focus on PvP rather than just co-op PvE.

Although details are sparse beyond some intriguing teases and glimpses of terrifying beasts and bosses, the announcement has sparked a range of reactions among Bloodborne enthusiasts.

"BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" exclaimed one fan on Reddit's r/Bloodborne thread about The Duskbloods. 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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Despite its differences, The Duskbloods clearly draws inspiration from Bloodborne, leading many to view it as a spiritual successor. While other FromSoftware titles like the Souls series and Elden Ring have expanded to various platforms, including a Tarnished Edition of Elden Ring for the Switch 2, Bloodborne has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive. Fans have long awaited a port, sequel, or any related content.

"Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves," one fan humorously remarked. Another noted the exclusivity, stating, "Bloodborne was always an exclusive, this is on brand."

The announcement initially excited the Bloodborne community, but the reality of The Duskbloods being a battle royale-style PvPvE game, rather than a traditional single-player RPG from FromSoftware, has tempered some of that enthusiasm. Discussions on forums reveal a mix of anticipation and concern over the game's multiplayer focus and its exclusivity to the Nintendo Switch 2.

More information about The Duskbloods is expected soon, with an interview featuring director Hidetaka Miyazaki set to be released on Nintendo's website on April 4. This should provide further insight into the game's mechanics, the nature of its PvPvE elements, and whether it will satisfy the long-held hopes of Bloodborne fans.

For a comprehensive overview of all announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, check out our detailed recap.