FromSoftware, the legendary studio behind iconic titles like Dark Souls and Elden Ring, is diving headfirst into multiplayer gaming with its upcoming exclusive, “The Duskbloods.” But unlike many online experiences that can feel overwhelming for new players, FromSoftware is implementing a unique matchmaking system designed to protect newcomers from being crushed by seasoned veterans. This approach aims to foster a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Bridging the Gap: Skill-Based Matchmaking in “The Duskbloods”
In an interview with IGN, FromSoftware president and “The Duskbloods” director Hidetaka Miyazaki confirmed that the game will feature a ranked matchmaking system. This system intelligently pairs highly skilled players together while keeping newer players in their own dedicated pools. The goal is to prevent lopsided matches as the skill gap naturally widens over time, ensuring a fairer and more balanced experience for all.
Skill-based matchmaking has long been a contentious issue in multiplayer games. Titles like Call of Duty and Apex Legends have faced considerable backlash from players who feel that such systems create unnecessarily punishing lobbies. However, FromSoftware seems determined to use this system to its advantage, creating a more welcoming environment for new players.
“In terms of really, really good players, we definitely plan on having the matchmaking system work in a way so that it’s ranked, and players who are really good tend to be matched with other players who are great, and players who are new tend to be matched with other new players just to avoid situations like you had mentioned,” Miyazaki explained.
Beyond simply matching players of similar skill levels, FromSoftware is also focusing on providing engaging content for all players. “Another element is that, even if you’re not necessarily always winning the matches or making it to the end, there are things that you can unlock through just gameplay like story content and customisation for your character, which should allow you to enjoy it outside of the actual combat. We’re hoping that can at least draw players in initially β they can enjoy the game for what it is, and enjoy the story and the world. And then from there, if they want to continue to get better at the actual matches, then that’s something that they can do as well.”
Interestingly, Miyazaki emphasized that this innovative matchmaking system “might not be something that comes out initially and may come a bit later on.” This suggests that FromSoftware is still experimenting with different approaches and gathering player feedback during the closed network test.
Furthermore, Miyazaki highlighted the importance of fostering positive interactions between veteran players and newcomers. “We’re definitely considering ways to build a relationship between veteran players and new players β something that’s positive and not always scary or something they’d want to avoid,” he added. This could involve features like event customisation, where rare in-match events are more likely to appear when playing with experienced players, or an “Alliance” system that allows players to specifically request matches with either highly skilled veterans or other newcomers.
Ultimately, FromSoftware’s goal is to create a multiplayer experience that benefits both veteran and new players. “Making sure they’re not split to where they don’t want to interact with each other,” Miyazaki said. “It’s definitely something to consider and something we want to look at in a positive way.”
While many of these features are still subject to change based on player feedback during the closed network test, it’s clear that FromSoftware is committed to creating a unique and inclusive multiplayer experience with “The Duskbloods.” The Network Test runs in phases this weekend, offering players a chance to experience these innovative systems firsthand. “The Duskbloods” launches as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, marking a significant departure from FromSoftware’s usual single-player focus. Miyazaki has previously suggested the studio is keen to return to single-player games once “The Duskbloods” and Elden Ring: Nightreign are behind them, insisting that the pair’s multiplayer focus was coincidental rather than a change in direction.
Source: Eurogamer
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