Elden Ring Nightreign is arriving on PS5 and PS4 on May 30, bringing a fresh cooperative adventure set in the well-known Elden Ring universe. Developed by FromSoftware, this standalone installment throws players into an exciting co-op multiplayer PvE setting where they must face the looming dangers of nightfall.
Recently, I had the privilege of diving into the upcoming network test before its public debut on February 14. Here’s a rundown of my initial impressions as I ventured through the treacherous landscapes of Limveld.
*Please note that this network test is based on a build still under construction. Specifications, names, and elements might differ from the final release.
When Elden Ring first launched, it was primarily a solo experience, designed to be savored at your leisure. You could explore every nook and cranny at your own pace, and if you wanted to take a break, you could safely pause in a secure zone.
However, Elden Ring Nightreign shifts the focus to three-player cooperative survival. You’re required to constantly stay alert, making sure to monitor your team’s movements, whether you’re together or deciding to take separate paths. This shift in gameplay is due to Nightreign’s Night’s Tide mechanism. It gradually shrinks your play area, culminating each session with an intense boss encounter. Strengthening your character and team becomes crucial as night approaches, ramping up the need for quick decision-making in this fast-paced escapade.
In terms of movements, while Elden Ring Nightreign keeps some basic mechanics from its predecessor, it spices things up with thrilling new abilities. You can now perform wall jumps, glide through the air with the help of Spectral Hawks, and amazingly, take no fall damage, regardless of the height. Pressing L3 lets you sprint, akin to the speed of Torrent, the spectral steed from the original game. Experiencing wall jumps and epic lunges off cliffs without fear felt like a thrilling speed run through familiar yet transformed terrain.
A unique twist in Nightreign is the ability to aid your fellow players by attacking them if they’re close to death. You can even lock onto a fallen comrade and use a long-distance offensive maneuver to revive them. This is crucial as the more a player goes down, the longer it takes to rescue them. During the daytime, missed rescues result in a temporary death with a respawn. However, at night, you’re left incapacitated until someone comes to the rescue. It changes the weight of each life lost, as failing to save a teammate can jeopardize the entire team’s success.
Despite the new elements, the core satisfaction from conquering tough foes remains. In true FromSoftware fashion, overcoming each boss offers a visceral thrill. Our initial encounters were met with repeated failure; however, perseverance and strategic planning saw us through. Each loss taught us new tactics and after venturing further into the map, eventually led to our victory on the third day’s final session. That triumphant moment was undoubtedly rewarding.
Cooperative gameplay brings another dimension to Nightreign. Initially getting everyone’s bearings took time, but reviving teammates and sharing gear is an organic team-building exercise. Though each player can explore separately, the most success comes from unified efforts. Strategically marking destinations, coordinating assaults on challenging foes, and upgrading our gear ultimately secured a successful boss battle on the third day. Watching my teammates embrace their in-game abilities and work together reinforced the camaraderie that makes multiplayer experiences so enjoyable.
Mark your calendars for May 30, when Elden Ring Nightreign debuts on PS5 and PS4. This engaging new chapter promises to deliver an exhilarating co-op experience within the beloved universe.
