FromSoftware is shaking things up with their upcoming game, The Duskbloods, set to release on the Switch 2 in 2026. This time, they are moving away from their usual style of having mysterious, doll-like female guides. Instead, players will meet a charming character—a winged rat—who, interestingly enough, is described by director Hidetaka Miyazaki as an elderly gentleman.
In an interview with Nintendo, Miyazaki shared that he wanted to try something different. He noted that this new character will fill a similar role to the beloved Fire Keepers from the Dark Souls series, acting as a source of advice and guidance in the game. The focus on these character changes is a nod to a fresher, perhaps more whimsical approach that Miyazaki believes fits well with the spirit of collaboration they have with Nintendo.
Historically, FromSoftware games have been known for their enigmatic female figures. Characters like the Maiden in Black from Demon’s Souls and the Fire Keepers from Dark Souls have set a precedent in their storytelling. The shift to a male character marks a broader trend in gaming where developers are increasingly diversifying the roles and personalities players encounter.
It’s interesting to see how this transition reflects changing player expectations. The response to characters like Miriel, Pastor of Vows—often affectionately called the "Pope Turtle" in Elden Ring—shows that players appreciate variety. This indicates that players are open to new and unconventional character designs, which can bring fresh experiences in storytelling and gameplay.
The game promises a unique twist with its emphasis on multiplayer action—allowing up to eight players to stand together or against one another. This multiplayer focus might enhance the player experience, creating new social dynamics within the game world.
As players look forward to its release, trends on social media reflect excitement. Fans are discussing the potential for this new character to bring humor and a fresh perspective to the challenging worlds FromSoftware is known for. It seems that if anyone can successfully break conventions while delivering a memorable gaming experience, it’s Hidetaka Miyazaki and his team.
The Duskbloods looks like a bold step in a new direction, promising to blend the familiar with the unexpected. It will be intriguing to see how this game develops and what else Miyazaki might have in store for players when it launches in 2026.
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Source linkGaming,News,Nintendo,Nintendo Switch 2
