FromSoftware’s Bold New Venture: The Duskbloods
The recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct concluded with an electrifying announcement that has captivated the gaming community: FromSoftware is developing a new title, The Duskbloods, slated for release in 2026. This upcoming game appears to be a spiritual successor to the critically acclaimed Bloodborne, a title often heralded as one of the finest video games ever crafted, yet still tethered to the aging PlayStation 4 platform.
The aesthetic and thematic parallels between The Duskbloods and Bloodborne are striking. The game’s setting draws heavily from the gothic architecture and religious motifs reminiscent of Yharnam, while character designs echo the futurist-tinged Victoriana that fans have come to adore. At its core, the game seems to delve into familiar themes, including beast transformation—a mechanic that was subtly woven into Bloodborne but now appears to take center stage in this new narrative.
Players can expect to encounter characters that morph into monstrous forms, including a particularly intriguing miniature T-Rex. The vampiric undertones of Bloodborne are also present, with The Duskbloods seemingly embracing this theme more explicitly. The game introduces vampires who can siphon power from defeated foes, suggesting that consuming enemies will play a significant role in gameplay mechanics.
Beyond the narrative, the game showcases an array of features that promise to enhance the player experience. Elements such as runes, firearms, and a haunting lunar presence add layers of intrigue. The protagonist is intriguingly dubbed “the carrier of blood,” hinting at potential lore connections to the beloved universe of Yharnam.
Moreover, The Duskbloods appears to elevate the action with a focus on steampunk technology and verticality. Players will witness characters utilizing jetpacks for aerial assaults and executing dramatic dives from great heights. The inclusion of a functioning train further enriches the game’s dynamic environment, suggesting a more action-oriented and combat-heavy approach compared to its predecessor.
While the trailer did not confirm the involvement of Hidetaka Miyazaki, it concluded with a promise of a 2026 release and the declaration of being “only on Nintendo Switch.” This exclusivity marks a significant achievement for Nintendo, securing a title from one of the industry’s leading developers for its latest hardware. As the gaming community eagerly anticipates this release, many hope that, akin to previous FromSoftware titles, The Duskbloods may eventually grace other platforms, allowing a broader audience to experience this innovative journey.
