The “I stayed up way past my bedtime to play this” test serves as a compelling testament to the allure of a game, especially as I approach my 30th birthday, making it increasingly challenging for any title to earn such a distinction. As someone who typically shies away from multiplayer experiences, I initially thought the co-op focus of Elden Ring Nightreign would shield me from the temptation to sacrifice my sleep. Yet, here I am, fully immersed in a game that, at times, feels like an exercise in frustration.
With 42 hours logged, I have willingly disrupted my precious sleep cycle, often staying up late to sync with friends on the West Coast during the pre-launch phase. The anticipation was palpable, and when server issues delayed our access, I found myself incessantly messaging our group chat, eager to dive in. It felt akin to a dog anxiously pawing at its bowl, waiting for mealtime.
Despite its challenges, including a punishing difficulty and a reliance on random number generation, I find myself drawn back time and again. The game has a knack for pushing players to the brink of madness, particularly during encounters with bosses that seem to mock our efforts. For instance, after multiple attempts against a poison-weak boss, our team never once received a poison weapon drop. Instead, we were met with the infamous Nightreigned experience.
In one memorable instance, we faced a map event boss, only to find ourselves unable to defeat it before the encroaching circle sealed our fate. The reward for our efforts? Immunity to Frostbite—an effect that, ironically, only a select few enemies could inflict. Nightreigned indeed.
Our encounters with special bosses have also been fraught with challenges. One particular boss inflicted a curse that permanently reduced our health bars, leaving us to navigate the remainder of our run at a disadvantage. The experience was yet another reminder of the game’s penchant for unexpected twists.
But I keep going back for more
Despite the myriad frustrations, I find myself utterly captivated by Elden Ring Nightreign. If DLC is ever released, I will be among the first to dive in. Three key aspects keep me returning to this game:
- Snackable Souls: While not a traditional boss rush mode, Nightreign offers a condensed version of the Souls experience. Although I cherish the exploration of the original game, the frantic pace of Nightreign provides its own unique thrill. The randomized elements breathe new life into familiar weapons, allowing for unexpected attachments to items I previously overlooked.
- Pleasant surprises: One of the hallmarks of FromSoftware games is their ability to surprise players. The unexpected twists, such as encountering a boss that permanently alters our health, are frustrating yet exhilarating. These moments, while maddening, contribute to the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Better with friends: My typical approach to Souls games is solitary, but the camaraderie fostered by Nightreign has been refreshing. Friends, colleagues, and former coworkers are all engaged, creating an infectious enthusiasm that amplifies the game’s chaotic moments. Recently, I celebrated a flawless victory over the final boss alongside friends, a moment that felt like a delightful twist of fate.
While the balance of Elden Ring Nightreign may not resonate with everyone, the struggles I’ve faced only serve to enhance the sweetness of each triumph, making every victory feel all the more rewarding.
