The Duskbloods Network Test: What Went Wrong and Why It Slipped

The Duskbloods network test ran in August 2026 and began badly: FromSoftware ended the first session early after game server issues stopped players from logging in. Two months later, on October 29, the studio delayed the Switch 2 exclusive into 2027 and cited feedback from that test.

Quick summary

• Test dates: starting August 21, 2026, with the first day cut short by server problems.
• Reported issues: login errors, frozen menus and loading screens, and performance problems.
• Later sessions ran more smoothly, per Nintendo Life.
• Outcome: launch moved to 2027; no month or price announced.

What went wrong on day one?

IGN reported that FromSoftware announced the first slot had reached an early end after "game server issues" barred players from logging in; the error players saw was "Failed to log in to The Duskbloods game server". GamesRadar says the servers became overwhelmed and fans were stuck on the title screen. DualShockers adds that testers hit frozen menus and loading screens.

How big was the demand?

Eurogamer, cited by Crunchy Tech, reported that more people applied for the closed test than for Elden Ring Nightreign, which is notable for a game that is Switch 2 only. That helps explain why the servers struggled.

Did it get better?

Yes. Nintendo Life says things improved in the later tests and that its writer ended up with a rather good time. Siliconera notes the test let players explore one map with a handful of characters and see how the different phases of a match work.

What did Miyazaki say about the test?

German outlet 2Playerz reported that Hidetaka Miyazaki described the build as showing only a small part of the game, with story, characters, maps and many features absent. The test was mainly meant to check server load and the basics.

Why was The Duskbloods delayed?

FromSoftware said development is at the "final adjustment stage" and that during the test it saw interest in "combat, strategic depth, and player expression". To improve these, it is using the extra time for "final adjustments to game rules and balancing". It apologised to waiting players. Notably, the stated reason is balance, not the server trouble.

What is the criticism?

GamesRadar notes not everyone enjoyed the PvP experience, and DualShockers says the test exposed some structural weaknesses. Opinion was split rather than uniformly negative.

What do we still not know?

• The exact 2027 release date or quarter.
• Whether another network test will happen.
• The price or pre-order date.

For the delay announcement itself, read our Duskbloods delay explainer, and see the launch calendar for what is releasing now.

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