FromSoftware pushes Switch 2 exclusive The Duskbloods to 2027 for final balancing

Key points

• FromSoftware announced the delay via the game's official X account, stating that development is at the 'final adjustment stage.'
• The new release window is set for 2027, but no specific month or quarter has been provided.
• The delay follows a closed network test held from August 21 to 23, 2026, which faced initial server connectivity issues.
• The game is a multiplayer-only title featuring PvPvE matches for up to eight players, directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki.
• FromSoftware apologized to players for the delay and thanked them for their patience and support.

Background

The Duskbloods was revealed alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 in April 2025 with a 2026 launch target. It is described as a spiritual successor to Bloodborne, blending elements of Dark Souls, Sekiro, and Bloodborne with jetpacks and dinosaurs. The game is exclusive to the Switch 2, a decision confirmed by parent company Kadokawa in financial reports. A closed network test in August 2026 drew more applicants than the Elden Ring Nightreign test, despite being limited to a single platform. The delay avoids direct competition with major late-2026 releases, including Grand Theft Auto 6 and the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake.

How outlets are covering it

Eurogamer emphasized the game's experimental nature and the initial server issues during the August network test, noting that later sessions resolved these problems. TechPowerUp highlighted the lack of a specific release date or quarter for 2027 and pointed out that the delay was anticipated due to the lack of news since August. Game Informer noted that while the delay is not surprising given the feedback from the network test, it is unexpected that the adjustments will take until 2027. 80 Level described the game as a darker, more mysterious experience set in a Gothic and Victorian-style world, focusing on its online multiplayer structure. All sources agree that the delay is due to final balancing and game rule adjustments, but they differ in their emphasis on the server issues and the anticipated nature of the delay.

Why it matters

The delay of The Duskbloods is significant as it is a high-profile exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2, a platform that has been seeking more third-party support. The game's delay may impact the Switch 2's software lineup in 2026 and could affect consumer confidence in the platform's ability to support major titles. Additionally, the delay highlights the challenges of developing a complex multiplayer game, especially when server stability is a concern. The move also avoids direct competition with other major releases in late 2026, which could be beneficial for FromSoftware's marketing strategy.

What to watch

FromSoftware will need to announce a specific release date or window for The Duskbloods in 2027. The studio will also need to ensure that the game's servers are stable for the launch, given the issues experienced during the August network test. Players will be watching for any further announcements or updates from FromSoftware regarding the game's development and release. The delay may also lead to increased speculation about whether the game will eventually be ported to other platforms, despite Kadokawa's previous confirmation of no such plans.