Rise once more, Tarnished! FromSoftware has unveiled their next masterpiece, Elden Ring Nightreign, which promises to take players on a unique journey through a reimagined world. Announced during The Game Awards 2024, this surprise reveal is already competing with the likes of GTA 6 and Ghost of Yotei as one of the most anticipated games for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC. But make no mistake—this isn’t a direct sequel like Elden Ring 2. Instead, Nightreign brings an innovative twist to the studio’s signature formula.
Elden Ring Nightreign is slated for release in 2025. Given that FromSoftware only recently launched the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in mid-2024, the studio’s quick development pace is remarkable. Players can expect the game on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, but Nightreign won’t be available on Nintendo Switch.
The game introduces a fresh yet familiar setting called Limveld, a parallel world to Limgrave from the original Elden Ring. The trailer showcased a hauntingly beautiful landscape, where players must evade a mysterious blue magical barrier. True to FromSoftware’s cryptic storytelling, the narration in the trailer offered tantalizing hints of the plot. Players will embody “seekers of redemption” brought together by an enigmatic force. While lore enthusiasts will undoubtedly unravel hidden meanings, the narrative appears to take a backseat to the gameplay’s focus.
FromSoftware has taken a daring leap with Elden Ring Nightreign. Instead of the traditional action RPG style of Elden Ring, Nightreign is a three-player co-op roguelite. Players will choose one of eight preset character classes (four of which have been revealed) and embark on randomized runs filled with unpredictable enemies, locations, bosses, and loot.
The revealed classes include Wylder, a heavily armored knight wielding a longsword with a grappling hook for mobility; Duchess, a nimble rogue specializing in dagger combat; Guardia, a tank-like soldier using heavy weaponry; and Recluse, a powerful mage capable of casting devastating spells. Each class comes with unique abilities, weapons, and ultimates. Additionally, players can traverse the world using magical gliding birds and parkour elements, such as wall-running.
Combat mechanics remain familiar, with stamina management, dodging, and varied attack options. Movement speed is significantly increased, fall damage is removed, and Torrent, the beloved spectral steed, has been replaced by new traversal methods. Although it borrows elements from battle royale games, such as an ever-shrinking zone, Elden Ring Nightreign is strictly PvE. Teams must survive waves of enemies and increasingly challenging encounters until reaching the final boss—a choice made at the start of the run.
The game also teases the return of iconic enemies and bosses not only from Elden Ring but also from past FromSoftware titles, which is sure to delight longtime fans. Key details are still under wraps, including how progression will carry over between runs. With more classes to reveal and deeper mechanics to explore, Elden Ring Nightreign has already captivated the gaming community. Stay tuned for updates as we edge closer to the 2025 release.
