Fighting games fans have a lot to look forward to in 2022. From returning franchises like The King of Fighters XV to new IPs like MultiVersus, developer Arc System Works alongside Eighting are cooking up one of the most-exciting titles the genre has to look forward to this year - DNF Duel.
Originally announced in late 2020, both developers went radio silent for almost a year, until this past December, when new character trailers and an open beta were announced in quick succession.
The lack of information going into the first beta became a recurring joke for the fighting game community. While we still don't know much about the final product, we at least have an idea of what to expect gameplay-wise.
With all that being said, let's take a look at everything you need to know about DNF Duel, from its potential release date to its modes.
DNF Duel - Release date
At the time of writing, we don't have an official release date. The only thing ArcSys and Eighteen have shared with fans is that they are targetting a summer launch window.
DNF Duel Gameplay
The recent December beta gave fans a first look at gameplay, which confirmed suspicions that the game is an anime-style 1v1 fighter, meaning those waiting for assist-based or team-oriented fighters were left disappointed.
The game features the usual mechanics one has come to expect from Arc System Works titles as well as the latest bells and whistles from a graphics department.
DNF Duel - Roster
Fans of the Dungeon Fighter Online franchise will be happy to hear that DNF Duel will feature a comprehensive list of iconic characters from the IP.
While we don't have the full roster as of right now, here is every character that appeared on the beta and, as such, is confirmed for the game:
- Berserker
- Inquisitor
- Grappler
- Striker
- Ranger
- Hitman
- Dragon Knight
- Vanguard
- Kunoichi
- Crusader
We'll update this list as more fighters are revealed.
Will DNF Duel be free to play?
That's a good question; sadly, we don't have an answer for you right now. The DNF Duel is based on Dungeon Fighter Online is free to play.
It'll be interesting to see if DNF Duel follows the same FTP format, but as of right now, we'll assume that like every other major fighting game releasing, the game will likely come with a price tag attached.
Does DNF Duel have rollback netcode?
One thing we can confirm is the inclusion of rollback netcode, which will help the online experience feel smooth and similar to what offline would look like.
DNF Duel - Modes
While we don't have confirmation on most modes, common sense dictates DNF Duel will most likely launch with the following:
- Training Mode
- Online (Ranked, Casual or Arenas)
- Arcade
- Local multiplayer
A story mode is yet to be confirmed. Recent story modes in ArcSys titles have been non-playable, so stay tuned for more information.
- Read more: Best fighting games of 2022