Fans of Dark Souls and Elden Ring have long wished for a fully cooperative multiplayer experience. That dream is about to come true with Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone multiplayer spin-off set in Limgrave. The game offers a new take on the Soulslike formula, but there’s a catch: you can only play solo or in a trio. So, if you’re in a duo or a quartet, things might get awkward.

Why Teams of Three?

The decision to cap multiplayer teams at three has sparked debate among fans, especially since four-player co-op has become a standard in modern gaming. According to game director Junya Ishizaki, the three-player limit offers a fresh challenge. In an interview with IGN, Ishizaki explained that the goal was to “retain the sense of accomplishment from conquering bosses together” while providing a new dynamic to co-op gameplay. Nightreign also introduces roguelike elements and shorter, 30-minute gameplay sessions—another departure from the sprawling, open-world style of Elden Ring.

A Parallel Reality

Nightreign exists in a parallel universe to Elden Ring, running alongside the events of the original game without altering its lore. Set after the Shattering, Nightreign explores an alternate reality that branches off from the core story. This allows FromSoftware to reimagine familiar characters, bosses, and settings, while creating entirely new narratives.

For lore enthusiasts, the spin-off promises rich backstories and connections to Elden Ring’s canon. However, don’t expect answers to lingering questions from the original game. Nightreign’s story is deliberately standalone, focusing on its own world-building.

Gameplay Innovations

Nightreign introduces several gameplay features that set it apart from Elden Ring. Players can choose from eight predefined classes, each with unique abilities and storylines. Unlike Elden Ring, there’s no character creation, making the experience more streamlined.

The game features randomized maps, wall climbing, flying with Spectral Hawks, and three-day gameplay cycles culminating in boss fights. Multiplayer is designed for cooperation rather than competition, with no PvP mode planned. The reveal trailer has already showcased the high-intensity combat and cooperative focus that define this new chapter in the Soulsborne saga.

Release and Platforms

Elden Ring Nightreign is set for a 2025 release, likely in Q2 or Q3, with availability on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. In the coming months, we can expect FromSoftware and its parent company Kadokawa/Sony to announce a specific release date, giving fans a clearer idea of when they can experience the next chapter in the Elden Ring saga.

Final Thoughts

While its multiplayer design and parallel narrative may divide fans, the spin-off opens the door for new storytelling possibilities and gameplay experiences. Whether you embrace the changes or not, Nightreign promises to be another unforgettable journey into the Lands Between.