Elden Ring: Nightreign - Early Impressions and Network Test Reactions

Many of us had a general idea of what Elden Ring: Nightreign aimed to be - a Souls-like multiplayer roguelike focused on PvE with some team-based elements. However, it wasn’t until we saw the gameplay in action that we truly understood what it brings to the table.

Now that the Network Test has wrapped up and the release date is confirmed, select players have shared their footage and experiences. In this guide, we’ll break down everything we've seen so far and what Elden Ring: Nightreign will offer when it launches in just a few months.

Elden Ring: Nightreign - Early Impression Details and Gameplay Breakdown

Elden Ring Nightreign | New Preview Details:

▫️ Movement is faster - a sense of speed was important.
▫️ New movement abilities - Wall Run, Gliding with the Spectral Hawk, Sprint with L3 in addition to the regular dash.
▫️ One run takes about 35-40 minutes to complete.
▫️… pic.twitter.com/Sj6JmZHPDk

— KAMI (@Okami13_) February 12, 2025

To reassure readers right from the start, it's important to note that most fans and content creators who gained early access to Elden Ring: Nightreign have shared overwhelmingly positive impressions. From its gameplay loop and boss fights to gear, abilities, and combat mechanics, Nightreign appears to deliver on all fronts. While there are some minor caveats, they seem more than reasonable when looking at the bigger picture.

Elden Ring: Nightreign - Gameplay Overview

At its core, Elden Ring: Nightreign follows an intriguing formula. Players start by choosing one of eight character classes - though the network test only featured four - and can embark on the journey solo or with teammates. The game offers a detailed map screen showcasing areas to explore, bosses to challenge, chests to loot, and points of interest, including Evergaols for additional challenges and hidden chests containing unique items.

As you progress, each class's unique abilities play a key role. For instance, the Guardian class serves as a tank, capable of mitigating extra damage while delivering heavy yet swift attacks. Instead of traditional stat leveling, players earn global level-ups that enhance their overall build.

The game also introduces limited inventory space for gear, requiring players to strategically choose which items to keep. Weapons and armor feature unique perks, such as Ashes of War and passive effects that restore health on hit or provide buffs. Since healing resources are scarce outside of Sites of Grace, players must carefully manage their survival.

The Nightreign Loop

As players strengthen their characters with new weapons and abilities, they must navigate the map while the Nightreign gradually closes in. Once it reaches the center, the game advances to Day 2. After completing Day 2 similarly to the first, players gain access to the Roundtable Hold, where they can upgrade weapons, unlock new skills, and purchase items in preparation for the ultimate challenge - the Nightlord.

The Nightlord is a unique boss encountered at the end of each run, varying based on the player's journey. Upon defeating it, players can select one of three powerful permanent buffs or abilities before restarting from Day 1. This roguelike loop is the main focus of Nightreign and has been widely praised by early testers, with many highlighting its depth and replayability.

A Roguelike with a Soulsborne Challenge

Despite its roguelike structure, Nightreign retains FromSoftware's signature difficulty. Bosses are formidable, certain areas can be overwhelming, and even familiar foes introduce new, unpredictable attack patterns. Strategic class selection, ability usage, and tactical decision-making add another layer of challenge, whether playing solo or in co-op.

pic.twitter.com/PdrFWYFz1F

— Xbox (@Xbox) February 12, 2025

However, some players feel Nightreign might have worked better as an expansion rather than a standalone title. Since it assumes prior Elden Ring experience, newcomers may struggle with mechanics like dodging, reading enemy attacks, and general combat strategies.

That said, most players interested in Nightreign have likely played Elden Ring before, making the learning curve less of an issue. With the sheer variety of weapons, abilities, and combat approaches, even newcomers can adapt quickly.

With Nightreign garnering an overwhelmingly positive reception, excitement for its release is at an all-time high. The game officially launches on Friday, May 30, for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. We can't wait to experience the Nightreign alongside you all!