Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off from FromSoftware, launches May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. This announcement precedes a network test exclusively on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, running February 14-17, 2024, in five three-hour sessions.
Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Times (PT/ET):
- February 14: 3am-6am / 6am-9am
- February 14: 7pm-10pm / 10pm-1am
- February 15: 11am-2pm / 2pm-5pm
- February 16: 3am-6am / 6am-9am
- February 16: 7pm-10pm / 10pm-1am
This network test, described by Bandai Namco as a "preliminary verification test," aims to evaluate the online system's performance and functionality.
Set in a parallel universe to the original Elden Ring, Nightreign allows three players to team up as Nightfarers, battling new threats and exploring a dynamic map with a three-day-and-night cycle that alters the gameplay area. The ultimate goal is to defeat the Nightlord.
Here's a summary of the gameplay:
Elden Ring Nightreign begins at the Roundtable Hold. Players select from eight unique characters, each with distinct abilities and powerful Ultimates. The ever-changing Limveld environment demands quick decisions in combat and exploration, impacted by the Night’s Tide which shrinks the playable area. Each night culminates in a boss battle; victory unlocks greater challenges. The final confrontation with the Nightlord occurs on the third night. While solo play is possible, teamwork is crucial. Defeats yield relics for character customization and upgrades. Each session offers a unique experience due to the dynamic nature of enemies, rewards, and the map itself. Sites of Grace provide opportunities to level up. Successful runs grant lasting stat bonuses, bringing players closer to defeating the Nightlord and uncovering the Nightfarers' stories.
IGN's hands-on experience with an early build described Nightreign as "turbocharging" Elden Ring's dungeon crawls into fast-paced speedruns. Further details can be found in IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki. [Link to IGN's interview with Junya Ishizaki] [Link to IGN's hands-on preview]
