Elden Ring Nightreign: Addressing 20 Pressing Questions

FromSoftware bosses? Now we’re really getting into exciting territory!

Every day culminates in a clash with a boss that drops loot to aid your survival. On the third night, you go head-to-head with a formidable Nightlord. Defeating this adversary grants semi-permanent character boosts, but more on those in a bit. What truly sets Nightreign apart is its inclusion of bosses from several FromSoftware games, such as Elden Ring, featuring the iconic Margit and Demi-Human Queen, along with the beloved Dark Souls series, including the daunting Nameless King. If battling these epic bosses is your thing, you’re in for a treat.

Are there bosses from any other FromSoftware games?

Well, the current lineup only confirms bosses from the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring. Many of us are crossing our fingers for some surprises from Sekiro or perhaps another title not yet on Xbox (you know the one I mean). However, I’m quite certain we won’t see any of the fierce combatants from the Armored Core series making an appearance.

So, if you’re not customizing your own character, who will you be playing as?

Before each play session, you’ll select a Nightfarer, each boasting unique abilities and skills. Every Nightfarer has an ultimate power, which could enhance damage, boost defense, or provide utility. Mastering these ultimates and timing them perfectly can be one of the more satisfying elements of the game. Interestingly, you have the option to mix things up with three different Nightfarers or focus on two or even three of the same character. Each choice comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, so success often hinges on teamwork and communication.

What types of characters did you try out?

The final game will offer eight distinct Nightfarers when it launches in May, but for the network test, you’ll have access to three:

• Wylder: With well-rounded abilities and a straightforward gameplay style, he’s the go-to Nightfarer for newcomers.
• Guardian: This eagle-headed warrior is a defensive powerhouse, capable of knocking enemies back and setting up a barrier.
• Recluse: A master of magic, she poses a challenge but offers immense rewards for skilled players.

Wylder and Guardian will likely resonate with Elden Ring and Souls fans since they utilize weapons and shields. In contrast, Recluse breaks out of the traditional mold of magic-wielding characters seen in those games.

So, Recluse can’t just fire off spells and replenish her FP whenever it depletes?

That’s where things get intriguing. While Recluse can indeed launch spells and magical attacks, replenishing FP requires more effort than merely sipping a potion. You’ll need to collect attribute marks from enemies struck by magic, fire, lightning, or holy attacks. Once you accumulate four marks, you can unleash a devastating attack that varies depending on the marks collected. Additionally, Recluse’s “Song of the Blood Soul” ultimate marks enemies, enabling teammates to recover HP and FP through their attacks. I foresee high-level Recluse players becoming invaluable assets to their squads, given her ability to boost the entire team’s prowess.

How does a typical match start?

Before diving into the action, you’ll start at the revamped Roundtable Hold. The most notable addition is a sparring area with dummies for practice. You can tweak various parameters like character level, stamina, damage, and more—an excellent way to hone your skills outside a live session. Once ready, you’ll kick off an expedition and enter matchmaking. After pairing with two other players, you’ll each have 10 seconds to pick your Nightfarer. Then, off you go, deployed straight into the adventure in Limveld.