From Software Pushes Switch 2 Exclusive The Duskbloods to 2027 for Balancing

Key points

• From Software announced on October 29, 2026, that The Duskbloods will not launch in 2026 as previously expected, moving the release window to 2027.
• The studio stated that the delay allows time to enhance core concepts, specifically combat, strategic depth, and player expression, following an August network test.
• The game is described as a multiplayer PvPvE title directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, featuring a gothic steampunk aesthetic and 13 playable characters known as Bloodsworn.
• The delay avoids overlapping with the anticipated late-2026 releases of Grand Theft Auto 6 and the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake.
• From Software has not provided a specific month or date for the 2027 launch, only confirming that development is in the final adjustment stage.

Background

The Duskbloods was first revealed in April 2025 as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. From Software has a history of delaying Switch 2 titles, including the Elden Ring port, which was pushed from 2025 to August 2026 due to performance issues. Recent developments in the Switch 2 hacking scene, including a software-only jailbreak released in October 2026, have allowed dataminers to uncover additional details about The Duskbloods, such as the total number of playable characters and specific weapon lore, despite the studio's limited public communication since the August network test.

How outlets are covering it

GameSpot and Engadget both reported the delay as a strategic move to refine gameplay mechanics, with Engadget noting that the timing avoids competition with other major titles. Nintendo Everything emphasized the lack of a specific release date, highlighting that From Software has been relatively quiet about the game since the August network test. Wccftech focused on the implications of the delay for the game's visibility, suggesting that avoiding the late-2026 release cluster could allow Nintendo to choose a more favorable launch window in 2027. All sources agree that the game is in its final development stage, but they differ in their emphasis on the reasons for the delay, with some focusing on technical balancing and others on market positioning.

Why it matters

The delay of The Duskbloods signals From Software's commitment to quality over speed, a pattern seen with previous Switch 2 titles. It also highlights the competitive landscape of the late-2026 gaming market, where major releases from Rockstar Games and Nintendo could overshadow smaller titles. For players, the delay means a longer wait for a highly anticipated multiplayer game, but it also suggests that the final product may be more polished and balanced than initially expected.

What to watch

From Software is expected to announce a specific release date for The Duskbloods in 2027, likely after the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 and the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake. The studio may also release additional details about the game's characters and mechanics as part of its marketing push for the new launch window. Players can expect more information from dataminers and the Switch 2 hacking community as the game approaches its release.