The first network test for *Elden Ring Nightreign*, currently underway, has been marred by significant server issues, leaving many players unable to participate. IGN staff who had access to the test reported that the server problems were so severe that they couldn't play for the first hour. FromSoftware acknowledged these issues via a social media statement, confirming that server congestion was causing difficulties in finding matches. They apologized and encouraged players to retry after a short wait.

The situation is compounded by the limited availability of the network test, which is only accessible during five three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S, spanning from February 14 to February 17. Here’s the schedule:

Elden Ring Nightreign network test session timings:

• February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
• February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
• February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
• February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET

Bandai Namco describes the network test as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch." They emphasized that this "large-scale Network Stress Test is designed to evaluate various aspects of the online system's functionality and performance," and they seek player cooperation to improve *Elden Ring Nightreign*.

While it's preferable for *Elden Ring Nightreign* to experience these server issues now rather than at its full launch in May, players who had set aside time to participate in the test have voiced their frustration. It's hoped that future sessions will operate more smoothly.

*Elden Ring Nightreign* is FromSoftware’s standalone co-operative spin-off, set in a parallel world to the 2022 *Elden Ring*. The network test allows three players to team up as Nightfarers, battling new terrors, exploring an ever-changing map, and facing increasingly challenging bosses, with the ultimate goal of defeating the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must endure.

Last year, IGN had the chance to visit FromSoftware and go hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. They were impressed, noting that the game "takes the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring and turbocharges them into propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedruns."

For more insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

*Elden Ring Nightreign* is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40, and will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.