FromSoftware's The Duskbloods aims to welcome newcomers, but skill-based matchmaking might not be ready at launch

FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki wants The Duskbloods to be a multiplayer game where newcomers do not get crushed by veterans — but the system designed to keep them apart might not be in place when the game launches.

In an interview published on 23rd August, Miyazaki confirmed that The Duskbloods will use skill-based matchmaking to separate new players from experienced ones. The catch: that system "might not be present at launch" and could arrive "a bit later on," according to Eurogamer.

The Duskbloods is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive and a genuine departure for FromSoftware, the studio behind Elden Ring and Dark Souls. It is a PvPvE title — meaning up to eight players battle each other and against computer-controlled enemies at the same time. Players take on the role of Bloodsworn, supernatural beings powered by special blood, fighting over something called the First Blood.

None of the matchmaking plans are locked in yet. Miyazaki said the current Network Test build is experimental, and FromSoftware is watching how systems like the Sigil and Virtue point mechanics land with players before finalising anything. The Network Test itself runs in daily phases from 21st to 24th August.

For a studio famous for punishing difficulty, Miyazaki's comments point in a notably different direction. He said FromSoftware is actively looking at ways to build positive relationships between veteran and new players. Ideas on the table include event customisation, rare in-match events that have a higher chance of appearing when newcomers play alongside long-time players, and an Alliance system letting people choose to pair up with either high-rank players or beginners.

He also confirmed that players will be able to unlock story content and character customisation through normal gameplay even if they are not winning matches. The goal, he said, is to give players a way to enjoy the game outside of combat — a meaningful shift for a developer whose reputation was built on combat that does not pull its punches.

FromSoftware's official website lists The Duskbloods with a 2026 release window. Nintendo has already opened applications for the Network Test, giving players a chance to experience part of the multiplayer action ahead of release.

For now, the matchmaking question remains open. Miyazaki's comments make clear that FromSoftware wants The Duskbloods to be approachable — the studio just has not decided exactly how, or how quickly, it will get there.