New information has emerged from FromSoftware about how multiplayer will work in its upcoming title, The Duskbloods. The studio has confirmed that this exclusive for Nintendo Switch 2 will support skill-based matchmaking, aiming to create a balanced environment that welcomes both beginners and experienced players.
Separation of player skill levels in ranked mode
During a conversation with IGN, Hidetaka Miyazaki, who helms Duskbloods and serves as the company’s president, explained that the multiplayer element would feature a ranked system. Through this system, high-skill participants will mostly compete against each other, while those new to the game will be matched primarily with fellow newcomers as the player base grows. Miyazaki clarified, “players who are really good tend to be matched with other players who are great, and players who are new tend to be matched with other new players, just to avoid situations like you had mentioned.”
Although skill-based matchmaking often sparks debate in games like Call of Duty and Apex Legends, where players claim it can make games excessively demanding, FromSoftware is working to find a balance with The Duskbloods, aiming for fair and fun gameplay for everyone.
Strategies to support positive interactions within the community
Miyazaki also outlined additional efforts to bridge the gap between veterans and novices. Unlockable content, such as story moments or character customization, will be granted simply for playing—regardless of whether players win. According to Miyazaki, “There are things that you can unlock through just gameplay like story content and customisation for your character, which should allow you to enjoy it outside of the actual combat.” The intention is to motivate newcomers to become immersed in the setting and gradually develop their skills.
It’s important to note that the ranked, skill-driven matchmaking system might not be active right from launch. Miyazaki stated, “this might not be something that comes out initially and may come a bit later on,” indicating that its introduction may follow once player feedback is gathered and considered.
Other planned features include event customization, which could make special in-game events more frequent when seasoned players join forces with newcomers. The upcoming Alliance system may allow skilled participants to opt in to being matched with new or less experienced players, reminiscent of the player-assistance seen in previous FromSoftware titles, like the system for leaving helpful hints.
Testing phases and continued improvements
Feedback from players involved in this weekend’s Network Test—scheduled in daily sessions from 21st to 24th August—is currently being reviewed by FromSoftware. Player impressions regarding systems such as Sigil and Virtue points, alongside how these interact with matchmaking, will influence further development. Miyazaki emphasized that all systems are subject to change, with updates planned after analyzing the Network Test results.
The Duskbloods represents a shift from FromSoftware’s tradition of primarily single-player games. However, Miyazaki has clarified that this move toward multiplayer is not permanent. Once development on both The Duskbloods and Elden Ring: Nightreign concludes, the company will return to single-player-focused projects. As previously stated in a prior interview, Miyazaki remains committed to solo experiences in the longer term.
The Duskbloods will launch as an exclusive for Switch 2, and through its new features in both matchmaking and community design, FromSoftware is making clear strides to foster a supportive, adaptive online environment as evidenced by ongoing developer statements and scheduled Network Test events.