FromSoftware Contemplates Return to Single-Player Games Post-“The Duskbloods”
FromSoftware’s president and renowned game director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, has indicated the company’s openness to returning to single-player game development after the release of “The Duskbloods”. This statement comes following the studio’s current focus on multiplayer titles.
Unplanned Multiplayer Releases
Miyazaki clarified in an interview that the simultaneous development of two multiplayer games—2025’s “Elden Ring: Nightreign” and the upcoming “The Duskbloods”—was coincidental. “It’s funny because there wasn’t any strategic decision that led to both games being multiplayer,” he noted. The two projects, one directed by Junya Ishizaki, happen to coincide with what the studio presently offers. Miyazaki emphasized that this did not indicate a permanent shift away from single-player experiences.
The Creative Drive
Miyazaki expressed that working extensively on multiplayer projects often renews the desire to explore single-player games. “Working on multiplayer for a long time does, indeed, make you want to create something solo again,” he reflected on the creative itch that demands attention.
A Unique Offering
“The Duskbloods,” developed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, represents an unusual direction for FromSoftware, allowing for innovative ideas that were unsuitable for single-player models. Miyazaki discussed how these ideas found a home in this multiplayer format, providing a necessary outlet for creative ambitions.
Nintendo Partnership
The collaboration between FromSoftware and Nintendo was driven by the latter’s enthusiasm and proactive mindset toward game development. Miyazaki appreciated Nintendo’s involvement, particularly in aiding player onboarding with effective tutorials and guidance, something he acknowledged FromSoftware has struggled with in the past.
Upcoming Network Test and Release Speculations
A network test for “The Duskbloods” is set to commence this weekend, spanning five phases from 21st to 24th August. Although a 24th September launch date appeared briefly, FromSoftware has yet to confirm the release. Nevertheless, they maintain that the game will debut this year, amid considerations of its proximity to “GTA 6”, scheduled for 19th November.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.