- The Duskbloods Closed Network Test runs from August 21 to August 23, 2026
- Applications open on July 22, 2026, with selections chosen randomly
- Five sessions are scheduled, each lasting exactly five hours
- Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to participate
- Capture and streaming are strictly prohibited during the test
The Duskbloods Closed Network Test Overview
The Duskbloods Closed Network Test is FromSoftware's first major public playtest for their upcoming PvPvE multiplayer action game. Scheduled across three days in August 2026, this test gives selected players their first hands-on experience with the Bloodsworn combat system, multiplayer infrastructure, and core gameplay mechanics.
Video Highlights:
- Exact dates and application windows confirmed
- Five separate five-hour sessions across three days
- Nintendo Switch Online membership required
- Strict no-capture and no-streaming policy enforced
- Game still on track for a 2026 release window
The primary goal of this test is server stress testing, multiplayer infrastructure evaluation, and game balance data collection. FromSoftware has explicitly stated this is not a demo of the final product. Players will experience a limited portion of the game, and certain mechanics may function differently at launch.
FromSoftware has confirmed that the Closed Network Test represents a work-in-progress build. Mechanics, balance, and performance may change significantly before the official launch. Treat this as a technical test rather than a preview of final quality.
Test Schedule and Session Times
The Closed Network Test spans three days, but sessions are not available around the clock. FromSoftware has structured the test into five distinct five-hour windows. Because times are announced in Pacific Time, some sessions will fall on different calendar dates for players in other regions, particularly in the UK.
| Session | Date (PT) | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Session 1 | August 21, 2026 | 5 hours | Initial server load |
| Session 2 | August 21, 2026 | 5 hours | Peak concurrency |
| Session 3 | August 22, 2026 | 5 hours | Cross-region stress |
| Session 4 | August 22, 2026 | 5 hours | Extended matchmaking |
| Session 5 | August 23, 2026 | 5 hours | Final balance data |
For UK players, the final session technically falls in the early hours of August 24, 2026. Converting all times to your local timezone before the test begins ensures you do not miss your assigned window.
All officially announced session times use Pacific Time. UK players should add approximately 8 hours to convert to British Summer Time. Double-check your local equivalent for each session to avoid missing the window.
| Region | Time Offset | Session 1 Local Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US (Pacific) | PT | August 21, 2026 | Base timezone |
| US (Eastern) | PT +3 | August 21, 2026 | Same calendar day |
| UK (BST) | PT +8 | August 21-22, 2026 | Late sessions shift forward |
| Europe (CEST) | PT +9 | August 21-22, 2026 | Early morning sessions possible |
| Japan (JST) | PT +16 | August 22, 2026 | Significant date shift |
How to Sign Up: Step-by-Step
Registration for the Closed Network Test requires careful attention to deadlines and eligibility requirements. Follow these steps to submit your application correctly.
Confirm Your Platform
The Duskbloods Closed Network Test is exclusive to Nintendo Switch. Ensure you have access to a compatible console before applying.
Verify Nintendo Switch Online
An active Nintendo Switch Online membership is mandatory. Without one, your application will not qualify even if selected.
Submit Application
Applications open on July 22, 2026. Use the official sign-up portal linked from FromSoftware's channels. Complete all required fields accurately.
Await Selection
FromSoftware has not disclosed the total number of participants. Selections appear to be random, so there is no guaranteed entry method.
Download the Test Client
If selected, follow the instructions in your confirmation email to download the Closed Network Test client before your first session begins.
Submit your application as early as possible after July 22, 2026. While selection is random, applying early ensures you do not miss the window if technical issues arise on the final day.
Rules, Restrictions, and Eligibility
FromSoftware has implemented strict guidelines for the Closed Network Test. Understanding these rules before participating prevents potential account penalties and ensures a smooth testing environment.
The Nintendo Switch capture button will be disabled during all test sessions. Players are prohibited from posting, streaming, or sharing any video footage or screenshots from the test. Violating this policy may result in disqualification from future tests.
| Restriction | Details | Enforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Video Capture | Disabled via system | Capture button turned off in-game |
| Streaming | Strictly prohibited | Violations tracked and penalized |
| Screenshots | Not permitted | Share function blocked |
| Content Discussion | Limited | TBD by FromSoftware terms |
| Data Mining | Prohibited | Standard NDA expectations |
Eligibility Checklist:
- Own a Nintendo Switch console
- Active Nintendo Switch Online membership
- Available during at least one session window
- Stable internet connection for multiplayer
- Willingness to comply with no-capture policy
What to Expect: Gameplay and Mechanics
The Closed Network Test offers the first real look at how The Duskbloods actually plays. Unlike traditional FromSoftware action RPGs, this title centers on PvPvE multiplayer combat where players compete as Bloodsworn warriors.
PvP Combat
- Hunt other Bloodsworn for victory points
- Aggressive playstyle rewarded
- Direct player-vs-player engagements
- Competitive multiplayer focus
PvE Objectives
- Defeat AI enemies and bosses
- Complete match objectives
- Valid alternative to PvP
- Earn points without fighting players
Role System
- Destined Rival: Track and defeat assigned target
- Destined Companion: Temporarily ally with another player
- Dynamic per-match assignments
- Changes player relationships mid-game
Miyazaki has confirmed that players who dislike PvP can still enjoy The Duskbloods. Focusing on PvE objectives, avoiding unnecessary fights, and completing goals is a valid path to earning victory points.
The test will also showcase the game's faster movement system. Characters have been seen using jetpacks and executing massive jumps, making the pace significantly quicker than traditional Souls titles. The progression loop involves entering matches, earning victory points, and returning to base with rewards that customize both appearance and combat capabilities.
| Mechanic | Description | Test Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Victory Points | Primary scoring system | Balance evaluation |
| Bloodsworn Roster | Set characters with unique abilities | Combat feel |
| Role System | Dynamic per-match roles | Social interaction |
| Movement | Fast-paced with jetpacks and jumps | Mobility testing |
| Customization | Visual and combat loadout options | Progression flow |
Bloodsworn Characters and Lore
Players take on the role of Bloodsworn, warriors who have gained supernatural powers through special blood. FromSoftware describes them as their unique interpretation of vampire-like beings, with original lore built specifically for this world.
Unlike Elden Ring's custom protagonist, The Duskbloods features a predetermined roster of Bloodsworn. Each character has their own appearance, weapons, abilities, and combat style, though customization options are available.
The narrative centers on the First Blood, an event occurring during the Twilight of Humanity. This catastrophic phenomenon causes the boundaries between different historical periods to collapse, blending timelines together. True to FromSoftware's design philosophy, story fragments will be scattered throughout the world for players to discover and piece together independently.
| Lore Element | Significance | Player Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| The First Blood | Central plot catalyst | Discovered through gameplay |
| Twilight of Humanity | Time collapse event | Shapes the game world |
| Bloodsworn History | Individual character backstories | Unlocked via progression |
| Time Period Blending | Multi-era environments | Explored in matches |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does The Duskbloods Closed Network Test take place?
The test runs from August 21 to August 23, 2026, with five separate five-hour sessions spread across those three days. Specific session times are announced in Pacific Time, so UK players should note that the final session falls in the early hours of August 24, 2026.
Q: How do I sign up for the Closed Network Test?
Applications open on July 22, 2026. You need a Nintendo Switch console and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to qualify. Use the official sign-up portal and await random selection, as FromSoftware has not specified how many players will be chosen.
Q: Can I stream or share gameplay from the test?
No. FromSoftware has strictly prohibited all video capture, streaming, and screenshots during the Closed Network Test. The Nintendo Switch capture button will be disabled while playing. Violating this policy may result in penalties.
Q: Is The Duskbloods a traditional Souls-like game?
No. The Duskbloods is a multiplayer action game built around PvPvE combat. While it features AI enemies and bosses, the core experience involves competing against other players. However, Miyazaki has confirmed that PvE-focused players can still progress by completing objectives and avoiding PvP combat.
Q: When is the full game releasing?
Kadokawa, which holds a stake in FromSoftware, recently reaffirmed that The Duskbloods is still expected to launch in 2026. The Closed Network Test happening in August makes a 2026 release window increasingly likely.