There is a growing sentiment that the dedicated FromSoftware community is quietly migrating toward the Switch 2. This shift is underscored by the remarkable performance of The Duskbloods<\/em>, which has achieved a significant milestone during its recent network testing phase.<\/p>\n According to insights shared by FromSoftware producer Yasuhiro Kitao in a recent Famitsu interview-as reported by GamesRadar-The Duskbloods<\/em> managed to attract a larger volume of participants during its network test than the highly anticipated Elden Ring Nightreign<\/em>. Reflecting on the unexpected turnout, Kitao noted, “We were really surprised.”<\/p>\n To grasp the magnitude of this achievement, one must look at the hardware landscape. The network test for Elden Ring Nightreign<\/em> took place in early 2025, targeting the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S ecosystems. Combined, these platforms boast an installed base exceeding 120 million units. In stark contrast, the Switch 2 has reached approximately 23.69 million units sold as of last June. Despite this massive disparity in hardware availability, The Duskbloods<\/em> managed to draw a larger crowd.<\/p>\n The success of The Duskbloods<\/em> is even more impressive when considering the logistical hurdles participants faced. Unlike the Elden Ring Nightreign<\/em> trials, which were open to a broad audience without requiring premium subscriptions, The Duskbloods<\/em> network test mandated an active Switch Online membership for all registrants. <\/p>\n This requirement acts as a significant filter, typically reducing the number of casual signups. The fact that the game still outperformed a major title on platforms with a much lower barrier to entry suggests a highly motivated and dedicated player base. <\/p>\n The data indicates that raw console install numbers are not the sole indicator of a game’s reach or the passion of its community. While Elden Ring Nightreign<\/em> had the advantage of a massive, established user base on high-powered consoles, the engagement levels for The Duskbloods<\/em> prove that the Switch 2 is rapidly becoming a platform of choice for hardcore gamers. This trend suggests that FromSoftware\u2019s audience is increasingly comfortable-and perhaps even eager-to experience complex, challenging titles on Nintendo\u2019s latest hardware.<\/p>\nA Surprising Surge in Player Engagement<\/h3>\n
Overcoming Barriers to Entry<\/h3>\n
What This Means for the Future<\/h3>\n