FromSoftware is once again set to reshape the action RPG genre with Elden Ring: Nightreign, a bold standalone entry arriving May 30, 2025. This isn’t just another DLC—Nightreign is a full-fledged cooperative experience built within the Elden Ring universe, but designed to stand apart with its own structure, characters, and gameplay philosophy. Developed in collaboration with Bandai Namco, this release is shaping up to be a major evolution of the Soulsborne formula.
A Fresh Format: Co-Op Roguelite Adventure
Elden Ring: Nightreign trades the vast open-world design of the original game for a tighter, more focused co-op structure. Set in a procedurally regenerated version of Limgrave—now called Limveld—the game unfolds over three in-game “days,” each culminating in a unique boss battle. You and up to two friends (or AI companions) will explore the land, scavenge for relics, upgrade your build, and prepare for increasingly difficult threats as the playable area shrinks, adding tension and urgency to every session.
Notably, FromSoftware confirmed there will be no two-player mode, as the game’s systems and enemy balance are designed specifically around solo or three-player team compositions.
Meet the Nightfarers: 8 Unique Playable Classes
Unlike the flexible class system of the original Elden Ring, Nightreign features eight pre-designed characters known as Nightfarers—each with distinct combat roles, backstories, and ultimate abilities. These are fixed classes that encourage experimentation with team synergy:
- The Recluse – A dark sorcerer who manipulates elemental and shadow magic.
- The Vanguard – A classic tank-type with high defense and stagger potential.
- The Dervish – A fast, dual-blade user focused on evasion and critical hits.
- The War-Monk – A brawler-priest hybrid with healing buffs and heavy melee.
- The Carrion – A stealth-focused assassin using poisons and traps.
- The Rimeblade – An ice magic hybrid fighter with status-inflicting strikes.
- The Executor – (Leaked) A heavily armored bruiser who excels in close combat.
- The Revenant – (Leaked) A mysterious harp-wielding support or summoner.
These final two classes were leaked via promotional merchandise, and although not officially detailed yet, fans are speculating that the Revenant might act as the team’s primary support character—an archetype rarely seen in FromSoftware’s previous titles.
What’s New in the Latest Trailer
A recent character spotlight trailer showcased The Recluse, the spellcasting class, in action. Players got a taste of the game’s darker visual tone and an up-close look at Limveld’s procedural environments. The footage confirmed that Nightreign won’t simply reuse Elden Ring’s assets—it builds a different world on a familiar skeleton, with dynamic layouts, weather effects, and mutated fauna.
This shift allows for greater replayability, as no two sessions will unfold exactly the same.
Editions, Preorders & DLC Plans
Players can choose from three editions at launch:
- Standard Edition – $39.99
- Deluxe Edition – $54.99 (includes soundtrack, artbook, and Season Pass)
- Collector’s Edition – $199.99 (features a detailed Nightfarer figurine, hardcover lore book, and themed accessories)
Although FromSoftware has not released detailed DLC roadmaps yet, the now-deleted Steam listing mentioned future content updates, including new Nightfarers and bosses. This indicates that Nightreign is likely to follow a seasonal or expansion-based model similar to Monster Hunter or Deep Rock Galactic.
Platform Support and Performance Expectations
Elden Ring: Nightreign will be available on:
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series X|S
- Xbox One
- PC (via Steam)
While performance details are still under wraps, early test builds suggest the game is targeting 60 FPS on current-gen consoles, with full crossplay support not yet confirmed.
A New Type of Elden Ring Experience
While the original Elden Ring was praised for its freedom and epic scale, Nightreign is taking a more focused and experimental approach. It’s part Dark Souls, part roguelite, and part Monster Hunter-style squad game. The procedurally generated world, limited runtime per session, and emphasis on co-op teamwork signal FromSoftware’s willingness to try something new while staying true to its punishing roots.
Whether you’re in it for the dark lore, tight combat, or just want to master all eight Nightfarers, Elden Ring: Nightreign looks like it could be one of 2025’s most talked-about releases.
Key Takeaways
- Elden Ring: Nightreign launches worldwide on May 30, 2025, bringing cooperative action survival gameplay to the franchise.
- Pre-orders are now available across all major gaming platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
- FromSoftware is expanding the Elden Ring universe with this standalone adventure that focuses on cooperative play rather than solo experiences.
Overview of Elden Ring: Nightreign
Elden Ring: Nightreign represents FromSoftware’s new vision for the Elden Ring universe, featuring cooperative gameplay and a standalone adventure that doesn’t require the original game. The experience reimagines core elements while maintaining the challenging combat and rich world-building that fans expect.
Concept and Evolution
Elden Ring: Nightreign is designed as a standalone adventure within the Elden Ring universe rather than traditional DLC. This approach allows both newcomers and veterans to explore this new chapter without needing the base game. FromSoftware has created Nightreign to offer a fresh perspective on the world established in the original title.
The game centers around a “creeping night” theme, suggesting a darker tone than its predecessor. This evolution in concept appears to maintain the atmospheric storytelling FromSoftware is known for while taking the narrative in new directions.
Players will face the challenges of this dark world when the game launches on May 30, 2025. Pre-orders are currently available through Bandai Namco’s website and Steam.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Nightreign’s most significant departure from the original Elden Ring is its focus on cooperative PvE combat. The game supports three-player co-op, shifting away from the predominantly single-player experience of the original.
The combat system has been reimagined while likely preserving the challenging nature that FromSoftware games are known for. Players will work together to overcome obstacles and enemies in this new adventure.
As an action RPG, Nightreign will likely maintain core elements like character building, equipment management, and skill-based combat. The co-op focus suggests new mechanics designed specifically for team play.
The game retains its classification as an action role-playing game, indicating that despite the cooperative focus, players can expect deep RPG elements and challenging combat scenarios typical of FromSoftware titles.
Release Date and Availability
Elden Ring: Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, with the game being available across multiple platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Countdown to Launch
FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment have officially announced May 30, 2025, as the release date for Elden Ring: Nightreign. The standalone adventure game set in the Elden Ring universe will see a worldwide release, giving all fans access simultaneously.
Pre-orders are already available for eager players who want to secure their copy. The game was first announced in December 2024, with the official confirmation of the release date coming on February 12, 2025.
The game is priced at $40, making it more affordable than a typical full-priced release. This price point reflects its nature as a standalone expansion rather than a full sequel.
Platform Accessibility
Elden Ring: Nightreign will be available across multiple platforms, ensuring wide accessibility for players regardless of their gaming system preference.
The confirmed platforms include:
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC (via Steam)
This multi-platform approach allows the vast majority of Elden Ring fans to experience the new content. PC players can already pre-purchase the game on Steam, where it’s listed with FromSoftware, Inc. as the developer and both FromSoftware and Bandai Namco as publishers.
The game appears to be optimized for next-generation consoles while still supporting PlayStation 4, making it accessible to players who haven’t upgraded their hardware yet.
Pre-Order and Editions
Elden Ring: Nightreign will be available in multiple editions when it launches on May 30, 2025. Fans can secure their copy now with pre-orders already open across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.
Standard and Deluxe Edition
The Standard Edition of Elden Ring: Nightreign includes the base game at the regular retail price. This edition offers the complete standalone adventure experience without any additional content.
The Deluxe Edition is priced at $54.99 on Steam and includes several digital bonuses. Players who purchase this premium version receive the base game plus a Digital Soundtrack featuring the game’s atmospheric music.
Additionally, the Deluxe Edition includes a Digital Artbook showcasing concept art, character designs, and environmental illustrations from the development team. This edition is ideal for fans who want extra digital content but don’t need physical collectibles.
Collector’s and Seekers Edition
The Collector’s Edition comes with exclusive physical items for dedicated fans. While exact details are still forthcoming, this premium package will likely include a physical version of the game plus collector’s items similar to previous FromSoftware releases.
The Seekers Edition represents another premium tier for serious Elden Ring enthusiasts. This special edition was mentioned on the official Elden Ring Nightreign website but specific contents haven’t been fully revealed yet.
Both editions typically include items like a Steelbook case, physical artbooks, figures, maps, or other memorabilia that celebrate the game’s world and lore. Full details on these premium editions will be announced closer to release.
Pre-Order Bonuses
Players who pre-order any edition of Elden Ring: Nightreign will receive exclusive in-game bonuses. The confirmed pre-order bonus is a special gesture called “It’s Raining!” that can be used in-game to communicate with other players.
Additional pre-order bonuses may include exclusive weapons, armor sets, or cosmetic items. These items are typically delivered via a DLC code included with purchase or emailed to digital buyers.
Pre-orders are currently available across all platforms, with physical editions likely available through major retailers and specialty game stores. Digital pre-orders can be placed through platform-specific stores or Steam for PC players.
Notable Characters and Enemies
Elden Ring: Nightreign introduces new characters while bringing back familiar faces from the original game. The upcoming expansion’s world is populated with allies who aid your journey and formidable foes who stand in your path.
Protagonists and Allies
Players will encounter the mysterious Nightfarers, a faction that navigates the darkness-consumed lands. These enigmatic figures serve as guides through the new treacherous areas of the game.
One notable ally is rumored to be a former Crucible Knight who broke ranks to help players understand the new threats emerging in the Lands Between.
The Tarnished protagonist returns as the player character, now facing new challenges related to the spreading night and emerging threats.
Several NPCs will offer quests, items, and information crucial to understanding the lore behind the night-themed expansion and the forces behind it.
Antagonists and Bosses
The Nightlord stands as the primary antagonist in Elden Ring: Nightreign. This powerful entity appears to be responsible for the spreading darkness throughout the Lands Between.
Wylder, a previously unmentioned character in Elden Ring lore, emerges as a significant boss with ties to the night-based phenomena affecting the realm.
Returning enemy types include the fearsome Godskins, notorious for slaying and flaying gods. They appear with new abilities and variations specific to the night theme.
Crucible Knights return as formidable enemies with enhanced movesets and abilities. These intimidating foes guard key locations throughout the expansion.
The game will feature additional bosses and characters post-launch, according to a now-deleted Steam page that mentioned upcoming DLC content.
Game World and Exploration
Elden Ring: Nightreign presents players with a vast open world to discover during their three-day adventure. The game continues FromSoftware’s tradition of detailed environments while introducing new combat mechanics and customization options.
Environments and Biomes
Nightreign takes place in the established Elden Ring universe but introduces players to previously unexplored regions. The game world features diverse biomes that players must navigate as they pursue their quest to unite the shards and restore the Elden Ring.
Unlike the base game, Nightreign’s environments transform over the three in-game days, creating dynamic challenges. Weather systems affect visibility and combat conditions, while certain areas become accessible only during specific times.
Players will encounter ancient ruins, underground caverns, and mystical forests throughout their journey. Each area contains hidden paths, valuable resources, and dangerous enemies guarding powerful relics.
The world design encourages exploration with meaningful rewards for those who venture off the main path. Secret areas often contain unique equipment or important lore fragments that enhance the overall experience.
Combat and Strategy
Combat in Nightreign builds upon the foundation established in Elden Ring while introducing new tactical elements. Players face magnificent boss encounters that require careful strategy and precise timing to overcome.
The multiplayer focus brings cooperative challenges where coordination between players becomes essential. Some bosses feature mechanics that demand team-based strategies rather than solo approaches.
New weapon types and combat arts give players additional options for confronting enemies. The combat system rewards experimentation with different approaches based on environmental factors and enemy weaknesses.
Timing remains crucial, with parries, dodges, and counters forming the core of the combat experience. Enemy attack patterns become more complex as the three-day cycle progresses, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly.
Special field bosses appear at specific times during the day-night cycle, creating urgency in exploration and combat planning.
Customization and Upgrades
Nightreign offers extensive character customization options that impact both appearance and gameplay. Players can select from multiple starting classes, each with unique attributes and equipment that influence initial combat approaches.
Equipment upgrades follow a branching path system, allowing players to specialize weapons and armor for specific combat situations. Materials gathered throughout the world can be used at forges to enhance equipment stats or add special properties.
Character builds can be refined through a revised skills system that encourages experimentation. Players earn skill points through exploration and combat that can be allocated to various attributes:
- Strength – Determines physical damage and heavy weapon usage
- Dexterity – Affects attack speed and light weapon proficiency
- Arcane – Influences magical abilities and item discovery
- Endurance – Controls stamina reserves and equipment load
Rare relics discovered in the world provide unique bonuses when equipped, allowing for specialized character builds that dramatically change the gameplay experience.
Exclusive Content
Elden Ring: Nightreign offers fans several exclusive items across different editions that enhance both the physical collection value and digital gameplay experience.
Digital and Physical Enhancements
The Deluxe Edition includes the “Digital Art Book and Mini-soundtrack” as exclusive content available on release day. Fans who appreciate game art will enjoy browsing through concept designs and final artwork that showcase the dark world of Nightreign.
Physical collectors can obtain the impressive 25cm Wylder statue included in the premium edition. This detailed figure represents one of the game’s key characters and serves as a centerpiece for any FromSoftware collection.
The SteelBook® case offers a more durable and visually striking alternative to standard packaging, featuring unique artwork not available on the standard edition. This collectible case has become a staple for serious game collectors.
In-Game Additions
The game includes special Nightfarer Cards that unlock unique gameplay advantages or cosmetic options. These cards can be used strategically during challenging encounters to give players an edge against difficult bosses.
Additional DLC content will become available after the main game’s release on May 30, 2025. While specific details remain limited, FromSoftware typically delivers substantial post-launch content that expands the game world and introduces new challenges.
Pre-order bonuses may include early access to certain weapons or armor sets that help players during the early stages of the game. These items maintain FromSoftware’s balance philosophy while offering minor advantages to early adopters.
Community and Support
FromSoftware and Bandai Namco Entertainment recognize the importance of player feedback and ongoing support for Elden Ring Nightreign. They have established clear channels for community engagement and outlined plans for the game’s future development.
Network Tests and Feedback
Ahead of the May 30, 2025 release, FromSoftware plans to conduct several closed network tests for Elden Ring Nightreign. These tests will allow selected players to experience portions of the cooperative gameplay and provide valuable feedback.
Players can sign up for these network tests through the official Elden Ring website. Bandai Namco has emphasized that participant feedback will directly influence final adjustments to game balance and server stability.
The development team has created specialized forums and Discord channels where test participants can report bugs, suggest improvements, and discuss their experiences. These community spaces will remain active after launch to maintain open communication between developers and players.
Post-Launch Plans
Bandai Namco Entertainment has outlined an ambitious roadmap for Elden Ring Nightreign following its release. The game will receive regular updates addressing technical issues and balance adjustments based on player data and feedback.
Several free content updates are planned for the first six months after launch. These will introduce new cooperative challenges, weapons, and areas to explore in the nighttime Lands Between.
A dedicated support team will monitor server performance and address connectivity issues that might affect the cooperative experience. This team will work closely with community managers to identify and resolve problems quickly.
FromSoftware has not confirmed plans for paid expansions but has hinted at “substantial future content” that will extend the Nightreign experience. The developers aim to create a living game environment that evolves based on community engagement and playing patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elden Ring: Nightreign’s upcoming release has generated many questions from eager fans. The game offers several exciting features while maintaining core elements that made the original title so popular.
What platforms will Elden Ring: Nightreign be available on?
Elden Ring: Nightreign is confirmed for release on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 consoles. The game will also be available on PC via Steam.
According to the search results, it does not currently have the PS5 Pro Enhanced badge. However, even without this certification, the Fidelity Mode performs almost as well as Performance Mode on the standard PS5.
Are there any special editions of Elden Ring: Nightreign planned for launch?
There has been no official announcement regarding special editions of Elden Ring: Nightreign. The standard edition is confirmed for the May 30, 2025 release date.
Fans should watch for updates from Bandai Namco as the launch date approaches for potential collector’s or deluxe editions that might include additional content or physical collectibles.
Has Elden Ring: Nightreign been developed by the original FromSoftware team?
Yes, Elden Ring: Nightreign is being developed by FromSoftware, the same studio behind the original Elden Ring. The team refers to this new title as a “short RPG.”
This approach condenses the traditional RPG elements of exploration, character growth, and boss battles into a more compact experience while maintaining the high quality expected from the studio.
Can players expect new gameplay mechanics in Elden Ring: Nightreign?
Elden Ring: Nightreign will introduce new gameplay mechanics while retaining familiar elements from the original. The game includes basics covered in the starter guide such as Game Basics and specific controls.
The Roundtable Hold feature returns, serving as a hub area for players. New action systems are also mentioned in the starter guide, suggesting fresh combat or movement mechanics.
Will Elden Ring: Nightreign support multiplayer features?
While specific multiplayer details remain limited, Elden Ring: Nightreign is expected to include online features similar to previous FromSoftware titles.
Players should anticipate cooperative play and competitive modes, though the exact implementation may differ from the original Elden Ring. More information on multiplayer functionality will likely be revealed closer to launch.
What are the system requirements for Elden Ring: Nightreign on PC?
The exact system requirements for Elden Ring: Nightreign on PC have not been officially published yet. As the game approaches its May 30, 2025 release date, these specifications will likely be announced.
Players can expect requirements similar to or slightly higher than the original Elden Ring, considering any graphical improvements or new features implemented in Nightreign.
