Introduction

When it comes to Elden Ring, calling myself a fan is an understatement. I’ve played it on both console and PC, beaten it multiple times, conquered the tough DLC (Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree), and eagerly await a proper sequel despite the countless hours I’ve invested. Like many fans, I was thrilled when FromSoftware announced a new Elden Ring project at The Game Awards 2024.

Titled Elden Ring Nightreign, this new entry shakes up the gameplay in ways few expected. Focused on co-op PVE for three players, Elden Ring Nightreign is a significant departure from the base game. Luckily, I had the opportunity to preview it through the Network Test. Is this new Elden Ring worth pre-ordering, or will fans be hoping for Elden Ring 2 instead? Let’s dive into my impressions of the Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test.

Watch the Official Trailer

Gameplay

I’ll assume you already know how Elden Ring plays, and if you’re reading this, that’s good—it saves me time and lets me jump straight in.

Elden Ring Nightreign retains some familiar mechanics but introduces major changes: customization has been removed, players choose from pre-set classes, and the gameplay emphasizes cooperative adventure. Elden Ring Nightreign is a co-op multiplayer experience (distinct from the base game’s co-op) where you select one of several classes called Nightfarers. The Network Test featured four classes:

• Wylder – A knight-style fighter
• Guardian – An armored tank
• Duchess – A rogue-like thief
• Recluse – A wizard-like spellcaster

Each class has unique ultimate abilities and starting equipment. I played all four but spent the most time with the Recluse, who, like all classes, is guided by their equipment in a way that shapes their playstyle.

How the Game Works

Unlike the base game, Elden Ring Nightreign functions differently. Players start in an altered version of Roundtable Hold before embarking on their quest. After choosing a class, three players are dropped into a familiar yet altered version of Limgrave. Upon arrival (there’s no fall damage in Elden Ring Nightreign), players must scramble to find equipment and runes to level up.

The game’s core mechanic revolves around the Day and Night cycle. When night falls, a major boss fight begins, and if you haven’t properly leveled up during the day, you’re in for a brutal defeat. This system makes Elden Ring Nightreign feel similar to games like Fortnite or Apex Legends, where looting and preparation are crucial for survival. Unlike Elden Ring proper, a single high-level player won’t be able to carry the team. I learned this the hard way after making it to night three, only to see an over-prepared teammate get annihilated because the rest of us weren’t equally strong.

New Mechanics and Combat

There are major changes to death, abilities, and exploration. Each class has a unique ultimate ability—for example, the Guardian can perform a powerful ground slam, while the Recluse unleashes an AOE magic attack. These abilities took time to master (I initially missed the tutorial), but once I got the hang of them, I loved how they added depth to combat.

Weapons also function differently. Instead of purely stat-based equipment, weapons have pre-installed abilities, some of which dramatically change how you play. The Recluse, for example, relies heavily on these weapon-based skills.

Exploration, a cornerstone of Elden Ring, has been reworked. Instead of riding a spirit horse, players can run at super high speeds and jump over obstacles. This new system isn’t about discovering hidden lore but quickly navigating to mini-bosses and lootable areas. However, wandering too far can be deadly—I died twice from exploring past the playable area at night, akin to poison fog in battle royale games.

Overall Impression

Due to the odd timing of the Network Test (which conflicted with my work schedule and was live at inconvenient hours), I didn’t get to play as much as I wanted. However, the few hours I did experience left me intrigued. Elden Ring Nightreign won’t surpass the base game or its DLC, but it offers something different—and that might be what fans need. The Network Test demonstrated just how much untapped potential the Elden Ring universe has, and that alone is exciting.

Conclusion

I’m excited for Elden Ring Nightreign to release on May 29, 2025, and I plan to pre-order it as soon as possible. FromSoftware has proven time and time again that they can deliver compelling experiences, and more Elden Ring content is always welcome.

Will Elden Ring Nightreign please every fan? Probably not. Some will love the new focus on cooperative gameplay, while others may be put off by the major gameplay shifts. Regardless, die-hard fans will dive in headfirst, eager to experience this fresh take on the Elden Ring world. Stay tuned for my full review when the game drops, and let us know in the comments what you think of Elden Ring Nightreign!

—Aaron