FromSoftware's The Duskbloods Gameplay Leaks Ahead of Closed Beta

Gameplay footage of FromSoftware's upcoming title, The Duskbloods, has leaked online, offering the first detailed look at the studio's foray into the PvPvE genre. The leak occurred just before the start of a closed beta test, providing a glimpse into a high-stakes multiplayer experience designed exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.

The footage, which surfaced on Bilibili after being accidentally posted by 4Gamer, showcases a climactic battle between the top three players of a match. Set on a rooftop under a red moon, the video highlights a fast-paced combat system that departs from FromSoftware's traditional pacing. The gameplay features double jumping, massive aerial attacks, and the ability to summon AI allies, including wolves, to assist in combat. One of the most striking reveals is a transformation mechanic that allows players to temporarily turn into a large velociraptor to execute a powerful grab attack.

Development History

The Duskbloods was first announced during a Nintendo Switch 2 event last year, though it remained largely mysterious for 14 months until a recent Nintendo Direct trailer and this leak. The project is directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the visionary behind the Souls series and Elden Ring. While the game is now a showcase for Nintendo's next-generation hardware, records indicate that development originally began for the first Nintendo Switch before the project was shifted to the Switch 2 to accommodate its technical ambitions.

Industry Implications

This leak is significant as it marks a strategic expansion for FromSoftware into multiplayer-centric design. Positioned as a title where up to eight players compete for supremacy, The Duskbloods represents a shift toward PvPvE (Player vs Player vs Environment) dynamics. Furthermore, as a console exclusive, the title serves as a critical benchmark for the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, demonstrating how the new hardware handles complex action sequences and AI-driven allies in a competitive environment.

What to Watch

The leaked footage arrives at a pivotal moment, as the game's closed beta was scheduled to go live on August 21st. While the core mechanics of aerial combat and transformations are now public, much of the game's narrative and full progression system remains unknown. Industry observers will be watching to see if FromSoftware addresses the leak in its official communications or if the beta results in further unplanned disclosures of the game's competitive structure.