FromSoftware canceled the first session of The Duskbloods Network Test due to server issues, delaying players' access to the beta, with a public apology on X/Twitter and promises to improve servers.

The session is closed as the company works on server improvements, leaving unclear whether the original plan for additional test sessions will proceed, though a new schedule was promised for later.

Previews show a mix of PvP, PvE, exploration, alliances, and Virtue Points, prompting questions about how central PvP will be in the final game.

Despite emphasis on PvP in some previews, others indicate multiple progression paths like fighting, exploration, and alliances, suggesting a varied gameplay approach.

Director Hidetaka Miyazaki says the final game will offer narrative depth comparable to Elden Ring and Bloodborne, with rich lore and character backgrounds to discover.

The test includes only a portion of final content: one of three launch maps and six of ten planned characters.

Some players may access the game later while others remain outside, with main menu music noted as prominent during the issue.

Miyazaki and FromSoftware emphasize this is not abandoning single-player experiences; The Duskbloods is an experimental direction while the studio remains committed to single-player titles.

A major content gap in the test is customization and story progression; final game will feature character customization, Dusk Battles rewards, and story progression in the House of Night hub.

Nintendo’s involvement aims to aid with complex systems, tutorials, and onboarding, addressing FromSoftware’s presentation gaps.

The Duskbloods is described as a PvPvE title for Switch 2, with Bloodsworn in online battles, eight-player matches, and a focus on supernatural combat.

If today’s session fails, players are encouraged to expect improvements in sessions planned for August 22–24.