Elden Ring Nightreign stole the spotlight at The Game Awards, which is exactly what you’d expect from anything touched by FromSoftware, the studio known for its critically acclaimed titles. Bandai Namco has now delighted fans by announcing a network test set to kick off early next year, with the registration window opening in January.
If you somehow missed the buzz, Nightreign is all about co-op gameplay. It invites multiple players to tackle bosses in the expansive universe crafted by FromSoftware, offering a more collaborative experience. Basically, it’s Elden Ring with your friends—not just leaving each other cheeky notes or occasionally popping in for a helping hand (or a bit of mischief).
This exciting title is slated for release in 2025, and the mentioned network test will happen soon after we ring in the new year. February is the chosen month for the test, but you’ll want to mark January 10 on your calendar if you’re hoping to be one of the lucky participants. Unfortunately, the test will only be available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, leaving PC and last-gen console players waiting in the wings for now.
So, what’s in store if you get the nod? Bandai Namco explains: “The network test is a preliminary verification where selected testers will experience a portion of the game before its full release, allowing us to conduct technical checks of our online systems through large-scale network load testing.”
Think of these technical checks as the bosses you’re battling in the game—conquer these challenges, and the prize is a polished, stable online experience once the game fully launches. You can even boast about snagging an ‘aura of stable network load’ to your friends if you fancy making it sound epic.
If you’re craving more news on Elden Ring, don’t miss what Sony recently had to say about its interest in acquiring FromSoftware’s parent company, Kadokawa. There’s plenty brewing in the gaming world, and this is just the start!
