FromSoftware's first closed network test for The Duskbloods on Nintendo Switch 2 was cut short after widespread server problems prevented most players from logging in, with further sessions now under review
FromSoftware's highly anticipated multiplayer action title, The Duskbloods, encountered immediate technical setbacks during its initial closed network test on Nintendo Switch 2. The first scheduled session, intended to run several hours on 21 August 2026, was brought to an early close after server issues left the majority of participants unable to access the game.
Network Test Disrupted
The Duskbloods' network test was designed as a limited-access event, with five separate sessions planned across the weekend. However, the opening slot, which began at 3 a.m. PT (11 a.m. BST), quickly ran into trouble. Most players reported being stuck at the title screen, unable to progress past repeated login failures. FromSoftware responded by ending the session ahead of its planned 7 a.m. PT (3 p.m. BST) finish, citing ongoing server instability.
The developer issued a public apology, acknowledging the inconvenience and confirming that the technical test had not proceeded as intended. The statement also indicated that further work on server stability is underway, and that the schedule for upcoming sessions may be adjusted depending on progress.
Player Access and Remaining Sessions
Access to the network test was limited to players who secured codes during an early sign-up period, reflecting strong demand for the Switch 2 exclusive. While the first session was cut short, the official schedule still lists additional test periods throughout the weekend. At the time of writing, it remains unclear whether these will proceed as planned or be rescheduled to allow for further technical improvements.
The Duskbloods is positioned as a PvPvE action game supporting up to eight players per match, with players taking on the role of supernatural Bloodsworn. The test was intended to provide early hands-on experience with the game's online systems, but the server issues have delayed meaningful access for most participants.
Official Response and Community Reaction
FromSoftware's public messaging has focused on transparency, with the studio promising to update players as soon as revised test times are confirmed. While some disappointed players voiced frustration over the early-morning session structure and the need to rearrange plans, others noted that network tests are specifically intended to identify and resolve such issues before launch.
Community discussion has largely centred on the technical nature of the setback, with many expressing understanding that large-scale online tests often reveal problems not encountered in internal development. The situation echoes previous network test challenges faced by other major multiplayer releases, highlighting the complexity of scaling server infrastructure for new titles.
Release Timing and What Remains Unknown
The Duskbloods does not yet have a confirmed release date, but is expected to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 before the end of 2026. No information has been provided regarding a wider open beta or additional test phases beyond the current weekend. Players seeking further details on upcoming horror releases may also be interested in recent coverage of new genre entries, such as the latest on Silent Hill: Townfall's release date and gameplay.
For now, the main question is whether FromSoftware can resolve the server issues in time for the remaining test sessions, and what impact-if any-this disruption will have on the game's development timeline or launch plans. The studio has not announced any changes to the overall release window, but further updates are expected as the technical situation develops.
Network tests are a standard part of the development process for online games, allowing studios to identify server bottlenecks, authentication failures and unexpected player behaviour under real-world conditions. Unlike internal QA, these public sessions often reveal issues that only emerge at scale, making them essential for ensuring a stable launch. While frustrating for players eager to try new content, early technical setbacks can ultimately lead to a more reliable online experience at release.
