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, with specific session times detailed below. Note that access isn't continuous throughout the four days.
Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Timings:
- February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
- February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
- February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
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 2022's Elden Ring, Elden Ring Nightreign allows three players to team up as Nightfarers, battling new terrors and exploring a dynamic map to defeat challenging bosses, culminating in a confrontation with the Nightlord. The network test features a three-day-and-night cycle that significantly impacts gameplay.Here's an official description:
Elden Ring Nightreign begins at the Roundtable Hold in a universe parallel to Elden Ring. Choose from eight unique characters, each with distinct abilities and powerful Ultimates. Journey through Limveld, an ever-changing environment, where combat and exploration are shaped by a night cycle that shrinks the playable area with the Night’s Tide. Each night ends with a boss battle; victory leads to greater challenges. The final night features a showdown with the Nightlord. While solo play is possible, cooperation is key. Combining abilities is crucial for success. Defeat doesn't mean the end; unsuccessful runs grant relics for character customization and upgrades.
Elden Ring Nightreign offers a unique FromSoftware experience. The ever-shifting enemies, rewards, and environment ensure each session is different. Exploring dangerous areas unlocks powerful weapons and Rune rewards. Sites of Grace provide opportunities to level up and enhance abilities. Each session resembles an open-air dungeon, contributing to lasting stat bonuses. Defeating the Nightlord unveils the story behind each Nightfarer.
IGN's hands-on experience with an early build described Elden Ring Nightreign as "turbocharg[ing] the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring into propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedruns.” For more details, see IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.
