Elden Ring Nightreign’s First Network Test Plagued by Server Issues, FromSoftware Issues Apology

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 issues that prevented access for the first hour.

The problems were substantial enough to prompt a social media statement from FromSoftware, acknowledging the matchmaking challenges caused by server congestion. While the developer apologized, they encouraged players to retry after some time.

A poll included in the article asks which Dark Souls bosses should be featured in Elden Ring Nightreign:

Which Dark Souls bosses should be in Elden Ring Nightreign?

Ornstein and Smough (Dark Souls)Artorias the Abysswalker (Dark Souls)Looking Glass Knight (Dark Souls 2)Burnt Ivory King (Dark Souls 2)Dancer of the Boreal Valley (Dark Souls 3)Pontiff Sulyvahn (Dark Souls 3)Other (specify in comments)AnswerSee Results

The limited availability of the Elden Ring Nightreign network test—five three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S between February 14th and 17th—further compounds the problem. The schedule is as follows:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Schedule:

• 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 allowing selected players to experience a portion of the game before launch. They aim to evaluate the online system's performance.

While server issues are preferable now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test have expressed their disappointment. Future sessions are expected to run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a world parallel to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three-player teams to battle new enemies, explore a dynamic map, overcome challenging bosses, and confront the Nightlord. It features a three-day-and-night cycle.

IGN previously had hands-on time with an early build, describing it as a faster-paced, action-oriented experience compared to the original Elden Ring. Further details can be found in IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

Elden Ring Nightreign releases on May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).