The coming years promise to be game-changing for FromSoftware, the legendary Japanese company behind the iconic Demon’s Souls and Dark Souls series. Known for setting a high benchmark in the action-RPG genre, FromSoftware is one of the most influential developers in today’s gaming world. With new releases like Elden Ring Nightreign and The Duskbloods on the horizon, that influence might soon evolve even further.
These two titles mark a significant shift for FromSoftware, focusing heavily on both cooperative and competitive multiplayer. Nightreign unfolds as a cooperative roguelike within the Elden Ring universe (which intriguingly links to the Dark Souls saga), while The Duskbloods delivers a PvPvE experience tailored for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Although multiplayer elements have been present in past games, this time they’re a central feature. While this direction is exciting and showcases the studio’s renowned love for experimentation, there’s anticipation for a return to traditional gameplay as well.
Nightreign and The Duskbloods could usher in a fresh era for FromSoftware, offering something new alongside their classic soulslikes and mech games. As much as these new ventures are appealing, they shouldn’t overshadow the studio’s renowned single-player experiences.
Fortunately, FromSoftware has reassured fans that single-player games aren’t being abandoned, which is a relief to many long-time enthusiasts concerned after the announcements of Nightreign and Duskbloods. Having built their reputation on intense, linear single-player adventures, any break from this norm is hoped to be short-lived. Fans yearn for more Dark Souls and Bloodborne, yet there’s ample space for innovation in the traditional soulslike genre.
The success of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice in 2019 is a testament to FromSoftware’s ability to reimagine its well-loved mechanics within a new framework. With its history of reinvention evident in Sekiro and even Bloodborne, FromSoftware undoubtedly has room to grow within the single-player domain. Potential abounds, perhaps in a true sci-fi soulslike, or a magic-centered RPG like the long-speculated Spellbound.
Since Dark Souls 3 in 2016, there hasn’t been a “true” soulslike from the company. Integrating insights from titles like Elden Ring, Sekiro, and their mech series Armored Core, alongside advancements in gaming tech, could make for an exceptional comeback whenever FromSoftware decides it’s time.
What makes FromSoftware special is how it defies modern gaming trends and player demands. In 2011, nobody was clamoring for a game like Dark Souls, which is precisely why its arrival was so refreshing. The studio should continue to blaze its own trail, as there’s enough creativity to sustain its single-player-focused philosophy for many more years.
