First Impressions: Network Issues Aside, The Duskbloods Could Wind Up Being Really Special
FromSoftware’s The Duskbloods, a Switch 2 exclusive announced during the April 2025 Direct, held a network test over the weekend that offered mixed early impressions. The test allowed players to experience six playable ‘Bloodsworn’ characters across a single map in the beautiful but deadly Lands of Dusk.
While Nintendo Life’s preview suggested potential for the title despite network connectivity issues, PC Gamer’s coverage was more critical. The outlet noted the test was intentionally limited, featuring no build customization, solo queue only, and only a partial introductory tutorial on a single map. More problematically, reviewers experienced significant input lag across both docked and handheld Switch 2 modes, creating control difficulties during play.
The network test’s technical limitations and early-stage nature appear to have shaped initial reception, with some outlets remaining optimistic about the game’s direction despite current issues, while others questioned whether the experience justified the exclusivity arrangement that prevents PC players from accessing the title.