The previously-announced closed network test for The Duskbloods now has its release date. We have confirmation that it’s happening between August 21 and August 24.

Participant application begins on July 22, lasting until July 28. A Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be required to play.

Here’s the list of times for each day:

• Aug. 21, 2026 (Fri.) 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. PDT
• Aug. 21, 2026 (Fri.) 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. PDT
• Aug. 22, 2026 (Sat.) 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PDT
• Aug. 23, 2026 (Sun.) 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. PDT
• Aug. 23, 2026 (Sun.) 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. PDT

FromSoftware says the network test for The Duskbloods will let the team test performance prior to the commencement of service. The team will “conduct large-scale network load tests to check different technical aspects of the game’s online systems.”

Here’s some additional information:

Overview

The primary goals of the network test for The Duskbloods are as follows:

Game server load test

We will connect large numbers of players simultaneously to verify gameplay while putting a load on the game server.

Multiplayer test

We will test for various problems that may occur when multiple people play together in different network environments, and various phenomena that may occur by having many users participate.

Game balance test

When real players test the game together, the developers can gather data about how well the game is balanced.

Gameplay

The network test for The Duskbloods allows for up to eight players to participate together in each of the multiplayer matches while the game is still in development.

We ask for your understanding that bugs may occur during gameplay.

The Duskbloods is still slated for 2026 on Nintendo Switch 2. You’ll be able to sign up for the test here.