At The Game Awards 2024 in December, FromSoftware and Bandai Namco first revealed Elden Ring Nightreign, which reimagines the Soulslike formula as a standalone co-op survival roguelike.
Set in a parallel universe to the original Elden Ring, this 3-player PvE adventure pits players against a relentless "Night's Tide" mechanic while introducing fast-paced combat, randomized progression, and hero-based teamwork.
Unlike the solo-focused Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, Nightreign emphasizes accessibility and cooperative strategy, blending battle royale urgency with Soulslike depth.
Story and Setting
Nightreign unfolds in Limveld, a shifting landscape tied to the Roundtable Hold's alternate reality.
Players assume the role of Nightfarers—eight predefined heroes like the grappling-hook-wielding Wylder or time-manipulating Duchess—tasked with surviving a three-day cycle of escalating threats.
Each session culminates in a showdown against a "Nightlord," a colossal boss shaped by procedural generation.
While narratively disconnected from Elden Ring, cryptic lore hints at ties to characters like Miquella or Rennala.
Gameplay Information
Fast-Paced, Team-Driven Survival
Nightreign replaces Elden Ring's open-world exploration with session-based runs (30–40 minutes) where squads scavenge randomized loot, level up via Runes, and adapt to ever-changing enemy placements.
Key mechanics include:
- Revive System: Downed teammates are resurrected by attacking them, though repeated deaths lengthen revival time.
- Enhanced Mobility: Sprinting (L3), wall-jumping, and spectral bird traversal replace Torrent, with zero fall damage enabling risk-free exploration.
- Class Synergy: Each Nightfarer has unique abilities (e.g., the Recluse’s elemental absorption) and Ultimates that amplify team combos.
(Credit: FROMSOFTWARE)
Roguelike Progression and Customization
Runs reward "Relics" for permanent upgrades, while weapons grant passive buffs even when unequipped. Simplified leveling auto-distributes stats, prioritizing speed over granular builds.
Differences from Predecessor
| Elden Ring / DLC | Nightreign | |
| Multiplayer | Optional co-op (limited) | Single Player Mode/ 3-player PvE |
| Character Creation | Customizable builds | 8 preset heroes |
| Movement | Torrent-dependent | Parkour, sprint, no mounts |
| Death Penalty | Lose Runes, respawn | Revive mechanics |
| Progression | Open-world RPG | Session-based roguelike |
Pricing and Release Information
Elden Ring Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, across major platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
The game will be priced at $39.99, positioning it as a more accessible entry point compared to the full-price Elden Ring and its Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.
Pre-orders is avaible now, offering an exclusive bonus gesture "It's Raining".
Additionally, FromSoftware has confirmed that Nightreign will support cross-platform play, ensuring a unified multiplayer experience for all players.
(Credit: Bandai Namco)
Editor's Comments
Nightreign's fusion of Soulslike combat and co-op survival could carve a niche in the multiplayer market, though its success hinges on balancing accessibility with FromSoftware's signature challenge.
While unlikely to match Elden Ring's 20M+ sales, its $40 price and fresh mechanics may attract both veterans and newcomers.
As for Game of the Year (GOTY) potential? The roguelike genre's competitive landscape and Nightreign's experimental nature make it a dark horse—worthy of nomination, but a win would require flawless execution and lasting replayability.
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