Gamers have been eagerly awaiting updates surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive Soulsborne The Duskbloods, and now they’re being treated to a full hands-on experience.
On their official website, FromSoftware announced an upcoming Network Test for The Duskbloods, which will take place from Aug 21st to Aug 23rd, 2026. Applications for the Network Test will be made publicly available on July 22nd, 2026 at 10 AM (EST) and will close on July 28th at 9:59 (EST). The test itself “involves using a pre-release version of the game to test performance prior to the commencement of service.”
According to FromSoftware, the Network Test will feature a Server Load test—connecting a large number of players simultaneously to verify gameplay while putting a load on the game server—as well as a Multiplayer Test to observe any potential problems that may arise in a multiplayer environment (including network issues or “various phenomena that may occur), and a Game Balance Test, allowing the developers to gather feedback and adjust accordingly.
The full schedule for The Duskbloods Network Test is as follows:
- Application Period – Starting on July 22 (Wed.) at 10:00AM (EST) until July 28 (Tues.) at 9:59AM (EST)
- Selection Announcement – August 7 (Fri.) at 9:00AM (EST)
- Network Test –
- Aug. 21, 2026 (Fri.) 6:00AM to 10:00AM (EST)
- Aug. 21, 2026 (Fri.) 10:00PM to 2:00AM (EST)
- Aug. 22, 2026 (Sat.) 2:00PM to 6:00PM (EST)
- Aug. 23, 2026 (Sun.) 6:00AM to 10:00AM (EST)
- Aug. 23, 2026 (Sun.) 10:00PM to 2:00AM (EST)
The Duskbloods was first announced during the April 2025 Nintendo Direct, and bears some resemblance to From Software’s online multiplayer Soulsborne Elden Ring: Nightreign. Players who wish to participate can access the Application Page of The Duskbloods’ official website once it becomes active. Players will also need a Nintendo Account, as anyone selected will receive a code that can be redeemed on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
