After an extensive eight-hour hands-on with the technical test of “The Duskbloods,” a new title from gaming giants FromSoftware, the core gameplay loop finally clicked. This isn’t just another game; it’s a unique blend of PvP, PvE, and RPG elements designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.
A New Breed of Bloodsworn
“The Duskbloods” is labeled as a PvPvE experience, and that description holds true. You enter a map alongside seven other “Bloodsworn,” each driven by their own motivations. The primary objective? Accumulate “Virtue” by slaying enemies (not necessarily other players) and completing objectives scattered throughout the environment. However, there’s a catch: players with the least amount of Virtue are eliminated in a series of rounds, leaving only three to battle it out for the coveted “First Blood,” a mysterious substance that fuels their quest.
Matches typically last around 30 minutes and are divided into four distinct phases. Each phase demands strategic decision-making as players must carefully allocate their time. Do you focus on leveling up by killing basic enemies? Hunt down powerful bosses for massive Virtue gains? Or dedicate your efforts to tracking down specific items that award bonus points? The key is efficiency, as every second counts in the race to avoid elimination.
Inevitably, you’ll encounter other players. While direct confrontation can be tempting, engaging in combat with fellow Bloodsworn often yields no Virtue. There are exceptions, but generally, fighting another player simply wastes valuable time. Alternatively, you could forge an alliance, temporarily uniting against the environment and shared threats. However, this fragile pact dissolves once the final round approaches.
At the end of phases two and three, designated “ritual sites” appear on the map. These zones contain stationary columns of light that players can claim. Holding onto these pillars grants a significant amount of Virtue, transforming the area into a chaotic game of “king of the hill.” Multiple Bloodsworn converge, battling for control while simultaneously trying to avoid elimination.
However, controlling ritual sites isn’t the only path to Virtue. Eliminating other players within these zones also awards points, allowing players to adopt either an aggressive or defensive playstyle. However, neglecting the ritual sites entirely can lead to falling behind the rest of the pack as you chase other objectives.
Once phases two and three conclude, two Bloodsworn are culled in phase 2 and three Bloodsworn are culled in phase 3. The remaining three players are then transported to a dedicated arena for a final showdown to claim “First Blood.” This is where the true test of skill and strategy comes into play.
Fundamentally, “The Duskbloods” draws inspiration from FromSoftware’s signature gameplay style, reminiscent of titles like “Elden Ring” or “Bloodborne.” Players have access to light and heavy attacks, a block mechanic, and the ability to roll for evasion. However, the Bloodsworn are noticeably more agile, capable of incredible jumps and mid-air dashes to cover ground quickly.
Each character boasts unique melee and ranged weapons, along with two distinct skills tied to a cooldown system. This allows for diverse playstyles and tactical approaches to combat encounters. During the technical test, players can choose from six different characters: Albert, Trang Lanh, Bloodhand Jan, Sniper Layla, Senator Samir Patres, and Zork. Each character embodies a familiar FromSoftware archetype, offering something for every type of player.
Adding another layer of complexity to the matches is a customization mechanic called “Sigils,” inspired by tabletop RPGs. These items alter a Bloodsworn’s backstory and encourage role-playing within a match by assigning your character a specific objective. Rival Bloodsworn are assigned passive Sigils based on your Sigil, unknowingly playing a role in your quest. For example, one Sigil marks another player as your sworn enemy, rewarding you with bonus Virtue for hunting them down. Another task you with finding an old friend and forming an alliance. One particularly interesting Sigil has you find your lost love who also happens to be another player and propose to them.
These Sigils become more intricate as you progress, but for the purposes of the technical test, they are relatively straightforward. They add a unique flavor to the gameplay, encouraging players to engage with each other on a deeper level.
Between matches, players return to a hub area called “The House of Night,” where they can customize their Bloodsworn, practice on a training dummy, and presumably interact with other characters. However, most of these areas within the House of Night are currently locked down for the technical test.
Jake has been playing games since he first picked up a Game Boy and slotted in Pokemon Red. He still yaps about Pokemon, but he loves The Witcher, Dark Souls, and Zelda. Bluesky profile of Jake Dekker @jacobdekk.bsky.social
Source: GameSpot
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