The most exciting revelation from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was undoubtedly the announcement of a new third-party game by FromSoftware, titled *The Duskbloods*. This game, slated for a global release in 2026 and exclusive to 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," individuals who have transcended humanity through the power of special blood. The game's narrative revolves around a fierce competition to become the "First Blood." According to a press release from FromSoftware, *The Duskbloods* is a PvPvE title that emphasizes online multiplayer, allowing up to eight players to vie for supremacy amidst a backdrop of blood, guns, and machinery. While it echoes *Bloodborne*, it also shares elements with *Elden Ring Nightreign*, albeit with a focus on PvP rather than purely co-op PvE.
Although the reveal was light on details, it included glimpses of terrifying creatures and bosses, sparking a range of reactions among *Bloodborne* enthusiasts. On Reddit's r/Bloodborne, fans expressed their thoughts with one user exclaiming, "BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" 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 distinct identity, *The Duskbloods* clearly draws inspiration from *Bloodborne*, leading many to consider it a spiritual successor. While other FromSoftware titles like the Souls series and *Elden Ring* have expanded to other platforms—including a *Tarnished Edition* of *Elden Ring* confirmed for the Switch 2—*Bloodborne* has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive, much to fans' dismay.
One fan humorously remarked, "Nintendo really got tired of waiting for *Bloodborne 2* and just decided to fund it themselves." Another noted the exclusivity of *The Duskbloods* to the Nintendo Switch 2, aligning with *Bloodborne*'s exclusive nature. "Bloodborne was always an exclusive, this is on brand," they added.
The announcement has reignited hope among *Bloodborne* fans, though some are tempering their excitement upon learning that *The Duskbloods* adopts a battle royale-style PvPvE format rather than the traditional single-player RPG experience expected from FromSoftware. Discussions on various forums reflect a mix of anticipation and reservations, particularly concerning the multiplayer focus and exclusivity to the Switch 2.
More information about *The Duskbloods* is expected soon, with Nintendo set to release an interview with director Hidetaka Miyazaki on April 4. This interview should provide further insight into the game's mechanics, its PvPvE elements, and whether it can truly satisfy the long-held desires of *Bloodborne* aficionados.
For comprehensive coverage of all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to visit our detailed recap.
