For the second consecutive day, Elden Ring Nightreign has disabled multiplayer passwords during its network test, frustrating players who hoped to team up with specific friends. FromSoftware has not provided an official explanation for the restriction, but it appears to be tied to earlier matchmaking issues. However, the feature is expected to return for the next testing session on February 16.
The Nightreign network test launched on February 14, but early participants reported widespread connectivity problems. Some players struggled to connect to servers just 20 minutes into the session, rendering much of the three-hour test unplayable. While subsequent tests have been more stable, FromSoftware has implemented restrictions—such as disabling multiplayer passwords—to improve performance.
Why Were Multiplayer Passwords Disabled?
Although FromSoftware has not clarified its reasoning, reports from players suggest that using multiplayer passwords may have worsened matchmaking issues. Some users noted that password-based lobbies were particularly unreliable during the Valentine’s Day test, which aligns with Game Rant’s own testing. The developer may have removed the feature temporarily to observe how servers perform without it. Alternatively, it could simply be a controlled test to gather more data on connection stability.
Multiplayer Passwords Expected to Return
The next scheduled Nightreign network test session on February 16 appears set to restore password-based matchmaking. FromSoftware has not indicated that the restriction will continue, suggesting that the feature will be back. However, it remains unclear whether the final test on February 17 will also support multiplayer passwords.
With Elden Ring Nightreign set to launch on May 30, FromSoftware is actively adjusting the game’s online features. The developer has even hinted at rebalancing Nightreign to support two-player parties based on early feedback. While these network tests have had their challenges, they provide crucial insights that could lead to a smoother multiplayer experience at launch.
