- The Duskbloods delayed rumors: Network test timing sparked 2027 delay speculation, but Kadokawa reaffirmed a 2026 release window.
- Network test dates: Play sessions run August 21–23, 2026, with applications opening July 22.
- Platform requirement: You need a Nintendo Switch 2 and active Nintendo Switch Online membership to participate.
- Gameplay focus: The game is a PvPvE multiplayer-first experience supporting up to eight players, with limited solo play.
- Expected launch: Industry insiders point to a late 2026 release, potentially December.
Is The Duskbloods Delayed? Current Status
The question of whether The Duskbloods is delayed has dominated community discussions since the summer 2026 Nintendo Direct. Many fans expected a firm release date during the presentation, but FromSoftware only confirmed a network test window. This omission fueled speculation that the game might slip into 2027.
However, Kadokawa — FromSoftware's parent company — addressed these concerns during an investors briefing on May 15, 2026. They reaffirmed that both The Duskbloods and the Switch 2 port of Elden Ring remain on track for a 2026 release. With Elden Ring launching on August 28, 2026, The Duskbloods could follow in the later months of the year.
While many fans assume a 2027 delay is inevitable due to the late-stage network test, Kadokawa's official investor communications maintain a 2026 target. Treat any firm delay claims without an official FromSoftware source as unverified speculation.
Video Highlights:
- Kadokawa reaffirmed 2026 release during May 2026 investor briefing
- Network test confirmed for August 21–23, 2026
- Reliable insider Nate the Hate suggests a late 2026 launch window
- Solo play confirmed via eShop listing showing 1–8 player support
- PvPvE gameplay supports up to eight players with different contract objectives
Release Timeline and Key Milestones
Tracking the development milestones of The Duskbloods helps clarify whether the game is actually delayed or simply following a deliberate marketing cadence. FromSoftware typically spaces out their major releases, and the Switch 2 version of Elden Ring required additional optimization time, which shifted the overall publishing schedule.
| Milestone | Date / Window | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Original reveal | 2025 | Cinematic trailer setting mood and world |
| Nintendo Direct trailer | Early 2026 | Follow-up vibe trailer, no gameplay |
| Kadokawa investor briefing | May 15, 2026 | Reaffirmed 2026 release window |
| Network test applications | July 22–28, 2026 | Registration via official website |
| Selection announcement | August 7, 2026 | Selected testers notified via email |
| Network test download | August 18, 2026 | Download codes distributed |
| Network test play sessions | August 21–23, 2026 | Multi-day testing window |
| Expected release | Late 2026 (TBA) | Potentially November or December |
FromSoftware historically conducts network tests several months before launch. The August 2026 test aligns with a potential Q4 2026 release, similar to how Elden Ring's closed network test preceded its launch by roughly four months.
Network Test Schedule Breakdown
The network test for The Duskbloods serves as a critical technical verification phase. FromSoftware will test server loads, multiplayer stability, and game balance across multiple sessions. Understanding the schedule ensures you don't miss your chance to participate.
Application and Selection Timeline
| Phase | Start Date | End Date | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application period | July 22, 2026, 7:00 AM PT | July 28, 2026, 6:59 AM PT | Nintendo Account |
| Selection announcement | August 7, 2026, 6:00 AM PT | — | Email notification |
| Download availability | August 18, 2026, 6:00 AM PT | — | Nintendo Switch Online membership |
Play Session Times
| Date | Session 1 (PT) | Session 2 (PT) |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, August 21 | 3:00 AM – 7:00 AM | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Saturday, August 22 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | — |
| Sunday, August 23 | 3:00 AM – 7:00 AM | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
The play sessions are spread across different times of day to accommodate global time zones. If you are selected, you can participate in any available session — you are not locked into a single time slot.
How to Join the Network Test
Participating in the network test requires preparation. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting selected and being ready to play when the sessions go live.
Create or Verify Your Nintendo Account
Visit accounts.nintendo.com to either create a new Nintendo Account or verify your existing credentials. This account links directly to your Switch 2 console and is mandatory for the application process.
Secure a Nintendo Switch Online Membership
An active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required — at minimum the $20/year basic tier. Month-to-month subscriptions are also available for approximately $3–4 if you only need coverage for the test period.
Apply During the Registration Window
Navigate to the official network test application page between July 22 and July 28, 2026. Submit your information before the 6:59 AM PT deadline on July 28 to be entered into the selection pool.
Download the Test Client
If selected, you will receive a download code. Beginning August 18, 2026, at 6:00 AM PT, redeem the code on the Nintendo eShop to pre-load the network test version ahead of the first session.
Participate and Report Issues
Join any of the scheduled play sessions. Expect bugs, disconnects, and unfinished content — this is a technical test, not a demo. Report any issues through the official support channels.
Nintendo Switch 2's capture button will be disabled during the network test. Posting, streaming, or sharing screenshots and video footage of the in-development title is strictly prohibited by FromSoftware.
What to Expect from the Network Test
The network test is not a polished demo. It uses an in-development build of The Duskbloods designed specifically to stress-test servers and gather balance data. Setting proper expectations will help you evaluate the experience fairly.
Server Load Testing
- Large-scale concurrent connections
- Stress tests for matchmaking
- Identifying disconnect points
- Network infrastructure validation
Multiplayer Stability
- Up to 8 players simultaneously
- Various network environments
- PvPvE interaction testing
- Cross-region connectivity checks
Game Balance Data
- Real player behavior analysis
- Contract objective tuning
- PvP vs. PvE balance assessment
- In-game event trigger rates
FromSoftware actively uses network test data to refine the final product. Bugs, disconnects, and balance issues you encounter are exactly what the developers need to identify and fix before launch.
Network Test vs. Final Release Comparison
| Aspect | Network Test | Final Release |
|---|---|---|
| Content scope | Limited stages and characters | Full game experience |
| Stability | Prone to crashes and disconnects | Optimized for smooth play |
| Balance | Preliminary tuning | Adjusted based on test data |
| Capture | Disabled | Fully enabled |
| Multiplayer | Up to 8 players | Up to 8 players (confirmed) |
| Cost | Free (NSO required) | Full purchase required |
PvPvE Gameplay and Solo Play Details
The Duskbloods introduces an ambitious PvPvE structure designed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. Unlike traditional FromSoftware titles focused on single-player experiences, this game is built as a multiplayer-first project where up to eight players participate in matches with potentially different objectives.
How PvPvE Works
Each player receives contracts at the start of a round. Some contracts task players with hunting down other players (PvP focus), while others direct players to defeat in-game bosses or complete objectives (PvE focus). This creates a dynamic where you might be focused on a boss while another player is actively hunting you.
| Element | PvP Contracts | PvE Contracts |
|---|---|---|
| Primary target | Other players | In-game bosses and objectives |
| Win condition | Last player standing | Complete assigned objectives |
| Risk level | High (real players hunting you) | Moderate (AI encounters) |
| Play style | Aggressive, competitive | Cooperative or independent |
The game features in-game events that can change player objectives mid-round. This means your strategy must remain flexible — a PvE-focused contract could suddenly shift, forcing you into direct conflict with other players.
Solo Play Confirmation
The Nintendo eShop listing officially states 1–8 players, confirming that solo play is possible. However, FromSoftware has been clear that the game is designed around multiplayer first. In solo mode, AI NPCs will likely replace the other seven player slots, similar to how Elden Ring Nightreim scales boss health and encounters for solo players.
Network Test Preparation Checklist:
- Create or verify your Nintendo Account
- Activate a Nintendo Switch Online membership
- Bookmark the official network test application page
- Apply between July 22–28, 2026
- Check email for selection notification on August 7
- Download test client starting August 18
- Clear your schedule for August 21–23 play sessions
Release Date Predictions and FAQ
Based on available information, The Duskbloods is trending toward a late 2026 release. Kadokawa's investor briefing reaffirmation, combined with insider reports from reliable leaker Nate the Hate, suggests a November or December 2026 launch is most likely. FromSoftware may also follow their historical preference for February launches, which could push the game to early 2027 — but this would contradict Kadokawa's official stance.
FromSoftware favors January–March and October–December launch windows. With Elden Ring for Switch 2 releasing August 28, 2026, a Q4 2026 launch for The Duskbloods would give both titles appropriate breathing room.
Q: Is The Duskbloods officially delayed to 2027?
No. As of Kadokawa's May 2026 investor briefing, The Duskbloods remains scheduled for a 2026 release on Nintendo Switch 2. While the late network test timing has led to community speculation about a potential delay, no official source has confirmed a push to 2027.
Q: Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play The Duskbloods?
For the network test, yes — an active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required. For the full game, the eShop listing indicates 1–8 player support, suggesting solo offline play may be possible. However, the game is designed as a multiplayer-first experience.
Q: Can I capture or stream the network test?
No. FromSoftware has explicitly disabled the Nintendo Switch 2 capture button during the network test. Posting, streaming, or sharing any footage or screenshots of the in-development build is strictly prohibited.
Q: Will the network test reflect the final game's quality?
No. The network test uses an in-development version of the game to identify bugs, test server stability, and gather balance data. Expect crashes, disconnects, and unfinished content. The test is limited to a portion of the full game and does not represent the final release quality.
Q: What is PvPvE in The Duskbloods?
PvPvE means players can have different objectives within the same match. Some players receive PvP contracts to hunt other players, while others receive PvE contracts to defeat bosses or complete objectives. Up to eight players can participate in each match, with dynamic events that can change objectives mid-round.