Elden Ring Nightreign: Addressing 20 Pressing Questions

FromSoftware bosses? Now we’re in business!

That’s right! Each day wraps up with an epic boss fight that promises loot to help you tackle future challenges. Come the third night, you’ll be up against a Nightlord. Conquering this foe grants semi-permanent character upgrades (more on those in a bit). One impressive aspect of Nightreign is its lineup of bosses, drawn from various FromSoftware titles like Elden Ring—featuring heavyweights like Margit and Demi-Human Queen—and the Dark Souls series, with favorites like the Nameless King. If you love FromSoftware’s challenging boss encounters, you’re in for a treat.

Any bosses from other FromSoftware games included?

As of now, only bosses from the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring have been confirmed. Yet, there’s a collective hope among the community for appearances from Sekiro or another title not available on Xbox (I think you know which one). However, I wouldn’t bank on seeing any foes from the Armored Core series making an appearance.

Not creating my own character? Who do I play as then?

Before each game session kicks off, players select a Nightfarer—each possessing unique skills and abilities. Every Nightfarer has a special ultimate power categorized as damage, defense, or utility. Coordinating these ultimates for maximum effect is a key highlight of the game. Interestingly, you can choose to play with three varied Nightfarers or stick with two or all three of the same character. There are clear advantages and potential downsides to each team composition, so teamwork and communication are vital.

What types of characters did you try out?

The full game will boast eight Nightfarers upon its release in May, but during the network test, only three are available:

1. Wylder—great for newcomers due to his balanced abilities and straightforward gameplay.
2. Guardian—a defensive powerhouse with an eagle’s head who can push back foes and set up barriers.
3. Recluse—a master of magic, she’s tricky to play but extremely rewarding for seasoned players.

Both Wylder and Guardian will resonate with Elden Ring and Souls fans, thanks to their reliance on weapons and shields. Recluse, however, brings a fresh twist to the magic-wielding archetype traditionally seen in these games.

Does Recluse have unlimited spell-casting like in classic games?

Not quite. While Recluse does possess spell-casting skills, refilling her FP isn’t as simple as quaffing a potion. Instead, you collect attribute marks from enemies struck by magic, fire, lightning, or holy attacks. Gather four of these marks to unleash a powerful attack that varies based on mark types. Furthermore, her ultimate, “Song of the Blood Soul,” marks enemies, allowing her squad to recover HP and FP through attacks. Skilled Recluse players will be invaluable, amplifying their entire team’s capabilities.

How does a typical match begin?

Before the action begins, you’ll find yourself back at a revamped Roundtable Hold. The most notable upgrade? An area where you can spar with practice dummies, modifying parameters like character level, stamina, and more—a neat spot to hone your skills. Once you’re prepped, start a game, and enter matchmaking. Once matched with two teammates, a quick 10-second timer counts down for you all to select your Nightfarer, then it’s off to explore Limveld.