The Duskbloods' August network test details go live

The moon is rising a little earlier for Nintendo Switch 2 owners. Nintendo and FromSoftware have officially unveiled the full details for The Duskbloods Network Test, giving players their first chance to experience the studio's upcoming multiplayer action title before its planned launch. While the event only lasts a few days, it marks one of the first opportunities to see how its ambitious online systems perform under pressure.

Network Test details

Unlike an open beta where anyone can jump in, this will be a closed technical test aimed at evaluating both gameplay and server stability. Players interested in participating will need to submit an application during the registration period, with invitations being distributed ahead of the event. Naturally, a Nintendo Switch 2 and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership are required to join the hunt.

The Network Test itself will take place from August 21 through August 24, but don't expect to spend the entire weekend roaming its dark world. Instead, FromSoftware has divided the beta into five separate play sessions, each lasting four hours. This staggered schedule allows the developers to monitor performance during multiple peak periods and collect valuable data on matchmaking, connectivity, and overall server health.

The schedule is as follows:

• August 21: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM CEST
• August 22: 4:00 AM – 8:00 AM CEST
• August 22: 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM CEST
• August 23: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM CEST
• August 24: 4:00 AM – 8:00 AM CEST

The test is about far more than simply letting fans get an early look. Every match played will help the studio fine-tune combat balance, online infrastructure, and multiplayer mechanics before launch. The Duskbloods supports battles featuring up to eight players, blending PvPvE encounters with the studio's signature emphasis on tense combat and strategic decision-making. It's a significant departure from the traditional Souls formula while still retaining the unmistakable gothic atmosphere that has become one of FromSoftware's trademarks.

Those lucky enough to receive an invitation should also be aware that this is a tightly controlled preview. Nintendo has confirmed that gameplay sharing will be restricted, with the console's capture functions disabled during the test. The goal is to keep surprises under wraps while allowing the developers to focus on gathering technical feedback rather than flooding social media with unfinished footage.

The Network Test arrives at an interesting moment for FromSoftware. Following the success of its recent multiplayer-focused project Elden Ring Nightreign, The Duskbloods represents an experiment that leans even further into cooperative and competitive online play without abandoning the haunting aesthetic and high-stakes combat the studio is known for. If the August test proves successful, players may be looking at the first real glimpse of what could become one of Nintendo Switch 2's most intriguing online exclusives when it launches. Of course, you can visit our comparator to keep track of the best deals to get your digital key for The Duskbloods.on Nintendo Switch 2.