The most intriguing announcement from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was a new third-party game revealed towards the end of the showcase. FromSoftware is working on a fresh title named The Duskbloods, which echoes the iconic PlayStation 4-exclusive, Bloodborne, in several ways.

The Duskbloods is set to launch globally in 2026, and it will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. In this game, players assume the role of the "Bloodsworn," a group transcending humanity through the power of special blood. The core gameplay revolves around a fierce melee to claim the title of "First Blood."

FromSoftware confirmed in a press release that The Duskbloods is a PvPvE game with "online multiplayer at its core," allowing up to eight players to compete for victory. While the game's focus on blood, guns, and machinery recalls Bloodborne, it also shares similarities with the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, but with a PvP twist rather than solely co-op PvE.

Details remain scarce beyond some cryptic teasers and glimpses of terrifying beasts and bosses. However, Bloodborne enthusiasts have been vocal with their reactions.

"BLOOD! EVERY FIVE SECONDS THEY TALKED ABOUT BLOOD!" exclaimed one commenter on the r/Bloodborne subreddit discussing The Duskbloods. Another user suggested, "That game is 100% Bloodborne 2. I assume the name change is either because it's in a different setting, or because of Sony exclusivity."

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - The Dusk Bloods

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Despite its differences, The Duskbloods clearly draws inspiration from Bloodborne, leading fans to see it as a spiritual successor. While other FromSoftware titles like the Souls series and Elden Ring have expanded to multiple platforms, Bloodborne has remained a PlayStation 4 exclusive, with no port or sequel in sight, much to the disappointment of its fans.

"Nintendo really got tired of waiting for Bloodborne 2 and just decided to fund it themselves," one commenter quipped. Another pointed out the similarity in exclusivity, stating, "Bloodborne was always an exclusive, this is on brand."

The announcement has reignited excitement among Bloodborne fans, although some are tempering their enthusiasm upon learning that The Duskbloods is more of a battle royale-style game rather than the traditional single-player RPG expected from FromSoftware.

The revelation that The Duskbloods is a PvPvE experience has led to mixed feelings among fans. Some are less eager to dive into the game due to its multiplayer focus and exclusivity to the Nintendo Switch 2.

More details about The Duskbloods are expected soon, with Nintendo set to release an interview with director Hidetaka Miyazaki on April 4. This interview should provide insights into the game's mechanics, its PvPvE elements, and whether it can truly satisfy the long-held hopes of Bloodborne fans.

For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out our detailed recap.