Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server difficulties, hindering many players' participation.
IGN staff involved in the test reported severe server problems, rendering the game inaccessible for the first hour. The issues were so widespread that FromSoftware acknowledged the server congestion and player matchmaking problems via social media, offering an apology and encouraging players to retry later.
The limited availability of the test—five three-hour windows between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S—further compounds the frustration. The schedule is as follows:
Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Timings:
- February 14: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 14: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
- February 15: 11am-2pm PT / 2pm-5pm ET
- February 16: 3am-6am PT / 6am-9am ET
- February 16: 7pm-10pm PT / 10pm-1am ET
Bandai Namco describes the test as a "preliminary verification test" to assess online functionality and performance. While preferable to encountering these issues at launch (May 30th, 2025), the current situation has understandably caused disappointment among players who had planned to participate.
Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a parallel world to the original Elden Ring. The network test allows three-player teams to battle new enemies, explore a dynamic map, overcome challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that players must endure.
IGN previously previewed an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign, praising its fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay, a departure from the more cautious approach of the original Elden Ring. [Link to IGN's hands-on preview] Further details can be found in [IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki]. [Link to IGN's interview]
Elden Ring Nightreign will be released on May 30th, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).
