First Impressions of Duskbloods

As a seasoned Soulsborne fan, I’ve been eagerly following the developments of The Duskbloods, a new PvPvE game from FromSoftware. With the network test approaching, veteran Soulsborne YouTubers VaatiVidya and Oroboro have shared their in-depth analysis of the game’s mechanics, and project lead Hidetaka Miyazaki has given interviews to IGN and Automaton.

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The gameplay footage and discussions have provided valuable insights into the game’s structure, objectives, and overall design. Here are my top 5 takeaways from the first Duskbloods gameplay:

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1. Instanced, Run-Based Gameplay with Increasing Difficulty

The Duskbloods features instanced, run-based gameplay with a timer ticking down as the difficulty and stakes increase. Players will face challenges with set fantasies and abilities, reminiscent of Nightreign. While the objectives and specifics may differ, Duskbloods’ overall structure feels like an evolution of Nightreign’s design.

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With three maps available at launch, one more than Nightreign even after its Deathly Forsaken Hollows DLC, players will have ample opportunities to explore and master the game’s mechanics.

2. A Balance of PvP and PvE Elements

Unlike other multiplayer games like Tarkov or Marathon, Duskbloods focuses on completing PvE objectives rather than hunting down other players. The game’s Virtue system rewards players for completing objectives, and the high scorers at the end of each timed round survive to the next.

However, Vaati mentioned that there’s an unlockable option to make the final battle a co-op PvE boss instead, more akin to Nightreign’s Nightlords. Additionally, there’s an item to heighten the PvP focus, giving players Virtue for hunting down and killing another player in the lobby.

3. Bloodborne-Inspired Design and Returning Motifs

FromSoftware’s signature style is evident in Duskbloods, with returning motifs and designs reminiscent of Bloodborne. The game’s maps, characters, and enemies all bear a striking resemblance to the classic Bloodborne.

The map shown in the preview screams Yharnam, particularly the scenic view of the clock tower. The cathedral roof boss arena bears a striking resemblance to the Dark Souls Gargoyles or Bloodborne’s Martyr Logarius.

4. Vertical Design and Shadow of the Erdtree Influence

The game’s vertical design, as seen in the revealed map, is a nod to the breathtaking density of the Land of Shadow from Shadow of the Erdtree. This design choice is a significant departure from the sprawl of Elden Ring’s Limgrave/Limveld.

The vertical design will likely provide players with a unique and immersive experience, and it will be interesting to see how well this style of level design fits The Duskbloods.

5. Sustain, Follow-Through, and PC Release

FromSoftware has a mixed track record of support and balance for its multiplayer games. While Nightreign’s issues have been largely forgiven, the community is eagerly awaiting a PC release for Duskbloods.

With the Switch 2 as the game’s current platform, many fans are hoping for a PC version that will allow for a more immersive experience. The game’s imitations of Bloodborne on the Switch 2 are a concern, but a PC release could rectify this issue and provide a more authentic experience.

As the network test approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating more information about Duskbloods. With its unique blend of PvP and PvE elements, Bloodborne-inspired design, and vertical design, The Duskbloods is shaping up to be an exciting addition to FromSoftware’s portfolio.

Only time will tell if Duskbloods will live up to the expectations of the Soulsborne community. One thing is certain, though – this game is already generating a lot of buzz, and fans are eager to get their hands on it.