Duskbloods Nintendo Switch 2 beta dates, times and how to play early
Be warned, you'll need to sign up to book a space in the upcoming network test.
Earlier this summer Nintendo shed more light on FromSoftware's Switch 2 exclusive The Duskbloods, which is a multiplayer extraction-style game with a hint of Bloodborne about it. After announcing plans to hold a Closed Network Test later this summer, Nintendo has now announced the exact times and dates for the upcoming Duskbloods trial.
Fans will need to sign up on the game's official website, but will only have a brief window to do so. If you're interested in checking the new FromSoftware game out early, then keep reading to find out when the Closed Network Test takes place and how to sign up.
The Duskbloods Closed Network Test release dates and times
In a post on X, Nintendo confirmed that The Duskbloods Network Test will take place between Friday, August 21 and Monday, August 24.
The Network Test will be split into multiple windows, beginning with the first session from 11am BST UK time until 4pm BST on August 21.
The second session runs from 3am BST until 7am BST on August 22, followed by a third from 7pm BST until 11pm BST on the same day.
A fourth multiplayer session will take place between 11am BST and 3pm BST on August 23, followed by a final session from 3am BST until 7am BST on August 24.
How to sign up to the Closed Network Test
To sign up for The Duskbloods Network Test you'll need to visit the website, select your region and register interest.
The application period begins at 3pm BST UK time on July 22, and runs until 2.59pm BST on July 28. That's just under a week to make sure you're in the pot for a place in the draw.
Successful applicants will be notified at 2pm BST UK time on the afternoon of August 7, so make sure you check your emails.
You'll need a Nintendo account in order to be considered, and will be required to redeem a download code ahead of the event.
What else do we know about The Duskbloods' Network Test?
According to Nintendo and FromSoftware, the aim of the test is to see how the servers handle a large number of players simultaneously.
"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," FromSoftware continues.
Finally, the developers will also test the overall game balance, deciding whether certain items are too powerful, bosses too easy and how easy/difficult fans find the game.
You'll be able to try out the game's Twilight Battles, as you step into the shoes of a "Bloodkin" with superhuman powers.
