Elden Ring Nightreign Review: FromSoftware’s Bold Battle Royale Experiment Pays Off

FromSoftware’s latest release, Elden Ring Nightreign, takes a surprising turn by blending its renowned Soulsborne mechanics with battle royale-inspired multiplayer gameplay. After the massive success of Elden Ring, many wouldn’t have predicted this shift, but the Japanese developer’s unpredictability shines through once again.

A Fresh Take on Multiplayer Souls

Elden Ring Nightreign plunges up to 1,000 players into a shrinking open world, reminiscent of battle royale staples, but grounded in FromSoftware’s signature challenge. Matches are fought primarily in trios, with players looting chests and vanquished foes to gather weapons and permanent upgrades. Character progression leverages familiar mechanics like runes and grace sites, culminating in an intense boss fight on the third day of each run — typically around 30 minutes in.

Embracing the Roguelike Randomness

Initially, adapting to Nightreign’s roguelike nature can be jarring for Souls veterans used to carefully curated builds. The random weapon drops and forced improvisation challenged my traditional playstyle, but over time, this unpredictability encouraged experimentation with new weapons and tactics. This fresh approach broke the mold and broadened my perspective on future Souls gameplay.

Solo Play is Possible, but Multiplayer Shines

Although Nightreign supports offline solo play, the multiplayer experience is where it truly excels. Coordinating with teammates to distract aggressive enemies and strategize boss encounters feels essential. While some balancing updates are rumored to improve solo viability, playing as part of a coordinated trio delivers the best results and most enjoyment.

Epic Battles and Teamwork

The game shines brightest during boss fights against the formidable Night Lords, which cap off each run. Successfully downing these bosses feels like a monumental team achievement. The thrill of clutch revives and coordinated attacks creates unforgettable moments that highlight the cooperative spirit. Although defeat is common, especially early on, permanent relics and growing pattern familiarity ensure that every session contributes to future success.

Final Verdict: Elden Ring Nightreign — A Great Co-op PS5 Experience

Elden Ring Nightreign is an ambitious and largely successful fusion of Soulsborne action and multiplayer battle royale mechanics. While solo players might find it less rewarding, those embracing the multiplayer focus will discover some of the most memorable and thrilling co-op gameplay on the PS5.

It’s not what fans might have expected, but FromSoftware’s bold experimentation pays off, delivering fresh excitement for veteran and new players alike. Gather a dedicated team and dive in — Nightreign is one of the best cooperative games available on PlayStation 5.