FromSoftware Delivers Disappointing Update on Elden Ring: Nightreign Co-Op

Elden Ring: Nightreign is set to take cooperative play to new heights, but not without some limitations. FromSoftware recently shared that this upcoming title will confine co-op gaming to players on the same platform, which is bound to disappoint those hoping for crossplay. Fans will get a taste of Nightreign’s co-op features during the network test scheduled for February 2025.

The announcement of Elden Ring: Nightreign during The Game Awards 2024 came as a delightful surprise for many gamers. The excitement was palpable, especially with the emphasis on a co-op-centric experience in the reveal trailer. However, some recent updates on its cooperative play features might dampen the enthusiasm among the community.

Since its big reveal, some less-than-ideal news has surfaced regarding how co-op will function. The latest development adds another layer of restriction, and it’s leaving some Elden Ring enthusiasts somewhat disheartened.

In a conversation with IGN, FromSoftware confirmed that crossplay would not be an option in Elden Ring: Nightreign. This means players using a PlayStation 4 can team up with those on PlayStation 5, and Xbox One players can join forces with those on Xbox Series X/S. However, there’s no crossover between PlayStation and Xbox users, and PC gamers are, likewise, restricted to playing with others using PCs. The reasoning behind this choice remains unclear, particularly since co-op is such a prominent part of Nightreign, even more so than in the original game.

The absence of crossplay is just one of the cooperative features falling short of expectations. Another confirmed limitation is that players can only form groups of three, with no option for duos. While single-player mode will have balance adjustments, similar accommodations for duos won’t be available. The developers suggested that playing in pairs was too chaotic, but details about why this couldn’t be adjusted remain vague.

It will be fascinating to see how fans respond to these co-op limitations when Elden Ring: Nightreign finally hits shelves in 2025. While we don’t have an exact release date yet, eager gamers won’t have to wait too long to get a sneak peek. FromSoftware plans to conduct a network test in February, and sign-ups kick off on January 10. Although the full scope of this test hasn’t been disclosed, it’s likely that the co-op features will be a primary focus.

In this standalone adventure set in the Elden Ring universe, players will confront the encroaching darkness with uniquely skilled heroes, each bringing their distinctive style to the battlefield. The magic happens when these heroes join forces, creating powerful synergies to tackle the ever-changing threats awaiting them. Expect to face daunting environmental challenges and formidable night bosses as you explore a world that never quite stays the same from one game session to the next.

Elden Ring: Nightreign presents a fresh journey by revisiting and reinventing the game’s core concepts, promising both solo and cooperative play. Designed for 1-3 players, it’s yet to be confirmed if the game will be compatible with the Steam Deck. All eyes are on FromSoftware to see how they will deliver this much-anticipated game in 2025, with hopes high for a memorable experience despite some initial roadblocks in co-op gameplay.