Elden Ring: Nightreign Release Unveiled

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off from FromSoftware, is set to launch on 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 exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, running February 14-17, 2024. Access will be limited to five three-hour sessions across those days.

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

Bandai Namco describes this test as a "preliminary verification" to assess online functionality and performance.

Set in a parallel universe to the original Elden Ring, Nightreign features three-player cooperative gameplay. Players, as Nightfarers, will battle new threats, explore a dynamic map, and confront increasingly difficult bosses, culminating in a showdown with the Nightlord. The game features a three-day-and-night cycle that significantly alters gameplay.

The official description highlights:

Elden Ring Nightreign begins at the Roundtable Hold. Choose from eight unique characters, each with distinct abilities and Ultimates. Explore the ever-changing Limveld, adapting to the Night’s Tide which shrinks the map. Conquer nightly bosses for greater challenges the following day, culminating in a final battle against the Nightlord on the third night. Cooperation is key, but defeat isn't the end; fallen players earn relics to customize their characters. Each session is unique, offering a constantly evolving experience. Sites of Grace provide opportunities for leveling up and enhancing stats. Successful runs grant lasting stat bonuses.

IGN's hands-on preview described Nightreign as "turbocharg[ing] the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring into propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedruns." Further details can be found in IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki (link provided in original text).