From Software has begun network playtests for its new game, The Duskbloods, but the first session has already run into problems. Players invited to the test have struggled to connect, forcing the studio to shut down the opening day entirely.

In a statement shared on social media, From Software apologised for the disruption, confirming that server issues prevented testers from accessing the game:

“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to those who were waiting for the first The Duskbloods network test due to game server issues. We regret to inform you that today's session is now closed. We will continue to work on improving the servers and will announce future schedules at a later date,” the studio said.

The Duskbloods is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive developed by the same team behind Dark Souls and Elden Ring. Early footage shown during the console’s reveal highlighted a darker, gothic aesthetic, with huge interconnected environments and a focus on exploration. The game is currently expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027, although the timeline may shift depending on how quickly From Software can stabilise servers and resolve lingering bugs during testing.

A revised schedule for The Duskbloods’ next test session is expected once server fixes are in place.

KitGuru Says: This is an unfortunate start for The Duskbloods but From Software should have things resolved soon enough. 

Back in 2023, SEGA made waves when they announced that they would be reviving many of their older, dormant IPs. In amongst the line-up was a brand new Crazy Taxi – the first new mainline console entry since 2002’s Crazy Taxi 3. While the upcoming World Tour has been mired by some GenAI controversies, those interested in the game will have the opportunity to check it out ahead of release, with SEGA now announcing a closed network test.

Making the announcement on their blog (alongside the release of a brand new trailer), SEGA confirmed that they will be hosting a closed network test for Crazy Taxi: World Tour in September, writing:

“We will be inviting a small number of players to test the stability of the online multiplayer functionality ahead of the full release of Crazy Taxi: World Tour. Players will be able to participate in two multiplayer modes: Pickup Race and Cops ‘N’ Cabbies.”

The closed network test will officially go live on the 11th of September, and will remain accessible until the 14th. Curiously, while World Tour will be launching on all current-gen consoles, the network test will not be coming to the Switch 2, with PS5, Xbox and PC users being the only ones who can register.

Full details on the closed network test (including all the content which will be playable) can be found HERE.

After decades away from the franchise, it is exciting to see SEGA bringing back Crazy Taxi. It’s just a shame to see that they are making use of GenAI for its development.

KitGuru says: Are you looking forward to Crazy Taxi: World Tour? What do you think of the GenAI controversy? Let us know down below.

When the Nintendo Switch 2 was first announced, one of the major new exclusives revealed from the console was The Duskbloods, developed by From Software. The game has been delayed since then, but we are finally starting to see some real progress, with From Software announcing plans for the first public play test.

Starting today, Nintendo Switch 2 owners can apply to participate in the Network Test for The Duskbloods, From Software has announced. The application window is small, so you'll need to send one in by the 28th of July in order to be in the running to participate. This is not an open playtest, so you'll also need a little luck on your side to be selected. As is often the case with these sort of tests, no streaming or gameplay recording will be permitted and From Software is likely to issue DMCA takedowns for any footage shared online.

It is unclear how many invites will be sent out but From Software describes this as a “large-scale network load test”, so there is a good chance you will get in. Do be warned though, you will need an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription in order to participate.

The test will give players access to a small, incomplete slice of the game. From Software has said that the content included is still in development and may not be representative of what appears in the final game. Speaking of the final game, The Duskbloods doesn't have a release date yet, but it is expected to launch in 2026. Assuming the network test goes well in late August, the game could drop sometime in Q4.

KitGuru Says: Are you going to apply to participate in The Duskbloods' network test?

FromSoftware has announced the official network test dates for its upcoming Switch 2 exclusive title, The Duskbloods. The closed playtest will run from August 21st to August 24th.

Applications for the playtest open on July 22nd directly through the game's official website. If you're looking to participate, you'll need a Nintendo Switch 2 console alongside an active Nintendo Switch Online membership to apply. FromSoftware is using the event to verify core gameplay systems while putting a heavy load on the game servers.

The developer also wants to evaluate how the multiplayer components hold up with global participants online, as well as test general game balance. Each match will support up to eight players. These network tests typically arrive a few months before a full release, following a similar timeline to last year's Elden Ring: Nightreign playtest.

KitGuru says: FromSoftware's upcoming network test will give us our first real look at how The Duskbloods plays and performs on Nintendo's hardware. Will you be signing up for the playtest or waiting it out for its full release before trying the game?