The anticipated collaboration between FromSoftware and Nintendo appears to have hit a significant roadblock, as recent reports indicate that the rumored title Duskbloods has been pushed back to a 2026 release window. Initially expected to be a flagship showcase for the Nintendo Switch 2, the project’s shift suggests that the transition to next-generation hardware is presenting more technical hurdles than previously anticipated. This development leaves a notable void in the early lifecycle of Nintendo’s upcoming console, which many hoped would be defined by a high-profile “Soulslike” exclusive.
Industry insiders suggest the delay stems from a combination of hardware optimization needs and FromSoftware’s traditionally rigorous development standards. While neither Nintendo nor FromSoftware has officially confirmed the existence of Duskbloods, the consistent flow of leaks regarding a dark fantasy title tailored specifically for the Switch 2’s architecture has kept the community on edge. Pushing the launch to 2026 implies that the developers are prioritizing performance stability—a critical factor for the frame-perfect combat and intricate world design that the studio is known for.
For Nintendo, losing a potential Year One heavy hitter from the creators of Elden Ring is a strategic setback. The Switch 2 needs a diverse portfolio of software to justify the generational leap, and a FromSoftware exclusive would have served as a powerful signal to the core gaming audience. However, a delayed masterpiece is always preferable to a rushed launch, especially when dealing with the high expectations surrounding FromSoftware’s first dedicated venture into Nintendo-exclusive hardware since the early days of the GameCube.
As we look toward 2026, the focus shifts to how Nintendo will fill the gap left by this delay. While fans of the genre may be disappointed by the extended wait, the history of the industry shows that FromSoftware rarely misses the mark when given the necessary time. For now, the “Duskbloods” project remains one of the most intriguing mysteries in the industry, even if the answers are now a few years further away than we had hoped.
Source: Game Rant
