Nintendo Switch 2: The Curious Case of FromSoftware's Games

The gaming landscape in 2025 has dramatically shifted with Nintendo's latest console release. The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a significant leap forward for Nintendo in terms of third-party support, addressing one of the most consistent criticisms of its predecessor. While the original Switch carved out a successful niche with its hybrid functionality and first-party exclusives, it notably missed out on many AAA titles that defined the previous console generation.

"Nintendo has finally opened the gates to more demanding third-party titles," remarked industry analyst Mei Chen during last month's Digital Gaming Summit. "This represents a fundamental shift in their hardware strategy."

The Switch 2's enhanced capabilities now allow it to run previously unthinkable titles on Nintendo hardware. Games like Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077—both massive, demanding titles that were impossible on the original Switch—have been confirmed for the platform. This development has Nintendo fans celebrating what feels like the end of an era of exclusion from major gaming experiences.

The Nightreign Conundrum

Despite this progress, a curious situation has emerged regarding FromSoftware's relationship with the platform. While the base Elden Ring game is coming to Switch 2, its cooperative spin-off Elden Ring Nightreign remains conspicuously absent from Nintendo's upcoming lineup.

"It's strange to see the original game make the jump but not its newer expansion," observed gaming journalist Carlos Mendoza. "Especially when the hardware is clearly capable of running it."

The absence becomes even more perplexing when considering that FromSoftware is actually developing a different PvPvE title exclusively for the Switch 2—The Duskbloods. This console-exclusive arrangement suggests a strategic decision rather than a technical limitation.

Strategic Exclusivity

The reasoning behind this arrangement likely comes down to business strategy. Nintendo has presumably invested significantly to secure The Duskbloods as a platform exclusive, positioning it as a major selling point for hardcore gamers considering the Switch 2.

Industry veteran and game director Sophia Williams explained: "Platform holders need system sellers—games that convince players to purchase their hardware specifically. FromSoftware's reputation makes The Duskbloods exactly that kind of title for Nintendo."

Having Elden Ring Nightreign compete directly with The Duskbloods on the same platform could potentially cannibalize the audience for both titles. Each game requires:

• A dedicated player base for multiplayer functionality

• Significant time investment from players

• Similar skill sets and gameplay preferences

The Multiplayer Ecosystem

For games heavily dependent on multiplayer components, maintaining a healthy player population is crucial. Both Nightreign and The Duskbloods fall into this category, with cooperative gameplay serving as their primary distinguishing feature from traditional FromSoftware titles.

The multiplayer ecosystem on any platform can only support so many similar titles simultaneously. By focusing the Switch 2's FromSoftware community on The Duskbloods, Nintendo potentially ensures:

1. Shorter matchmaking times

2. More active community engagement

3. Longer overall lifespan for the game

"It's a delicate balance," noted online gaming researcher Dr. Tanaka in her recent publication. "Too many similar multiplayer games can fragment a player base to the point where none of them maintain the critical mass needed for optimal matchmaking."

Mixed Blessings for Nintendo Players

For the average Nintendo enthusiast, this situation presents both benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, they'll finally have access to the original Elden Ring—a landmark title that has influenced countless games since its release. On the other hand, they'll miss out on the newer cooperative experience that PlayStation, Xbox, and PC players are currently enjoying.

Some players have expressed frustration at what feels like a half-measure:

"I've waited years to play Elden Ring on my Nintendo system, and now I'll be behind again as soon as I catch up," complained Reddit user NintendoSoulsFan. "It feels like we're always one step behind."

Others see the exclusive Duskbloods title as more than adequate compensation:

"I'd rather have a game built specifically for the Switch 2 than a port that might be compromised," countered forum member SwitchHunter22. "The Duskbloods looks incredible and I won't have to worry about comparing it to versions on more powerful hardware."

Quality Versus Quantity

The ultimate verdict on this strategy will depend heavily on the comparative quality of both titles. If The Duskbloods delivers an experience that rivals or surpasses Elden Ring Nightreign, Nintendo players will likely feel satisfied with their exclusive offering.

Early previews of The Duskbloods have been promising, with many journalists noting the game's apparent technical optimization for the Switch 2 hardware. The game reportedly maintains a solid frame rate even during intense multiplayer encounters—something that might have been challenging for a ported version of Nightreign.

Looking Ahead

As 2025 progresses, Nintendo Switch 2 owners find themselves in an improved but still complex position regarding third-party support. The platform's ability to run more demanding games represents a significant step forward, even if certain titles remain exclusive to competing systems.

For FromSoftware fans specifically, the situation offers a mixture of long-awaited access and continued exclusion. The arrival of Elden Ring on the platform marks a milestone, while The Duskbloods presents an intriguing alternative to Nightreign that may ultimately prove more beneficial to the Switch 2's ecosystem.

Whether this strategy proves successful will depend on several factors:

• The critical and commercial reception of The Duskbloods

• The longevity of Elden Ring Nightreign on other platforms

• Consumer perception of Nintendo's third-party support overall

As one industry veteran summarized: "Nintendo has always charted its own course in the gaming industry. The Switch 2 continues that tradition—not by ignoring third-party developers, but by engaging with them on terms that complement rather than mimic their competitors' approaches."