The Duskbloods Closed Network Test Hub
Recap and outcomes from the August 21-24, 2026 test — and what the data tells us about the 2026 launch.
The Closed Network Test in summary
The Duskbloods is an upcoming FromSoftware multiplayer action game for Nintendo Switch 2, directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. Before the planned 2026 release, Nintendo and FromSoftware hosted a Closed Network Test (CNT) from August 21 to 24, 2026 so selected players could trial online PvPvE matches with up to eight Bloodsworn competing for First Blood during the Twilight of Humanity.
This hub recaps the test, the official statements, and the lessons FromSoftware collected for the upcoming 2026 retail launch. The test build is separate from the eventual retail game — treat every detail here as subject to change until launch. For deeper mechanics gained from the test, see Gameplay hub, Dusk Battle Phases, and Virtue System.
Test outcomes and lessons learned
The August 2026 CNT produced two clear outcomes. First, FromSoftware confirmed that phased PvPvE with Virtue scoring is fundamentally fun and approachable on Switch 2 — every major press outlet praised combat fluidity, the Moon Blood Bestowal finale, and the Kin system. Second, Day 1 server issues were severe enough that FromSoftware issued a public apology and ended the first session early. The same pattern affected Elden Ring Nightreign’s first test, suggesting FromSoftware’s network test infrastructure still needs work before the 2026 launch.
By August 24 the test had wrapped. FromSoftware has not publicly committed to additional sessions or schedule extensions, but the company is on record as continuing to improve server infrastructure ahead of the 2026 launch window.
Key dates and deliverables
| Milestone | Timing |
|---|---|
| Applications | July 22-28, 2026 (closed) |
| Selection notification | August 7, 2026 - 9:00 a.m. EDT |
| Preload available | From August 18, 2026 - 9:00 a.m. EDT |
| Play sessions | August 21-24, 2026 (concluded) |
| Public day-by-day recap | CNT Server Recap |
Cross-check the how to apply guide for the original flow and post-selection pitfalls. The schedule page lists every session in Pacific Daylight Time plus guidance for other regions, and the requirements page covers Switch 2, Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo Account, 17+ age rules, and region or language matching in one checklist-friendly page. The post-session wrap-up lives at CNT Server Recap.
What selected players experienced
Participants who received access preloaded the CNT build after August 18, 2026. From the House of Night hub, they selected or customised a Bloodsworn through blood history and fate, then queued into Dusk Battles. The hub includes a training space and other unlockable areas not available in the test, plus a planned second-floor story NPC that did not appear in the test build.
Matches granted rewards after wins or losses, so every session taught something even when Virtue did not go your way. Virtue determined match outcomes, and dynamic Events reshaped environments and rewards mid-match. The four-phase structure (Phase I gather → Phase II first Culling → Phase III second Culling → Phase IV Moon Blood Bestowal) emerged as the central rhythm of every match.
Save data from the CNT did not transfer to the retail 2026 release. Nintendo and FromSoftware expected bug reports and post-session surveys from selected testers. NDA and streaming limits applied to capture and public discussion. Read tester duties for the full conduct checklist, survey expectations, and code-sharing rules.
New to roles or objectives? Read Bloodsworn and the Gameplay hub for the mechanics before your next queue so First Blood goals and hub flow feel familiar when the game launches.
Tools and guides to bookmark
Use the CNT checklist tool before each window to confirm accounts, storage, and connectivity. Convert the five PDT session starts with the session timezone tool so you never miss a slot in local time. For post-test troubleshooting, see Troubleshooting.
For broader preparation and current state of the meta, explore the Guides hub, particularly How to Reach Phase IV and How to Choose a Bloodsworn.
Pages in this section
- How to apply — application flow, selection follow-up, and common errors
- After selection — August 7 results, download codes, and what to do while waiting
- Preload — redeem your code, install on Switch 2, and verify before sessions
- Schedule — all five four-hour windows with timezone notes
- Requirements — Switch 2, NSO, age 17+, and region/language matching
- Tester duties — bug reports, surveys, NDA limits, and no save transfer to retail
Why the CNT mattered for the launch runway
Large-scale online tests let FromSoftware and Nintendo validate matchmaking, eight-player stability on Switch 2, and how hub customisation carries into live battles. Player feedback from August 2026 sessions informs balance and infrastructure ahead of the 2026 launch window without pretending the CNT build is the finished product. The Duskbloods has not fully released — stay tuned to official channels for any schedule adjustments, post-test patches, and the eventual retail date announcement. Use this wiki to organise your personal prep until launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers drawn from official Network Test and Creator’s Voice details.
When did The Duskbloods Closed Network Test run?
The CNT ran across five four-hour windows from **August 21 to August 24, 2026**. See the [schedule page](/network-test/schedule/) for exact PDT times and the [CNT Server Recap](/news/cnt-server-recap/) for the day-by-day outcomes.
Did the Day 1 server outage ruin the test?
Day 1 was marred by major login errors that prevented most testers from connecting. FromSoftware apologised publicly and ended the day's first session early. Days 2-4 ran more smoothly, and the press preview confirmed the game's core design worked well. See [CNT Server Recap](/news/cnt-server-recap/) for full details.
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online for the CNT?
Yes. An active Nintendo Switch Online membership, a linked Nintendo Account, Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, and age 17+ confirmation were all required.
Will CNT progress carry to the retail game?
No. Save data from the Network Test Version does not transfer to the upcoming 2026 retail release. Expect surveys and bug-report duties if you participated.
Will there be additional tests before launch?
FromSoftware has not confirmed additional tests. The 2026 launch window remains in place. Watch official channels for announcements about further tests.