The first network test for Elden Ring Nightreign, ongoing at the time of this article's publication, has encountered significant server issues, preventing many players from accessing the game. IGN staff members who had access to the test reported being unable to play for the first hour due to these severe server problems.
FromSoftware acknowledged the issue on social media, confirming that server congestion was causing difficulties in finding matches. The developer apologized for the inconvenience and encouraged players to attempt matching again later. Despite the current frustrations, it's preferable that these issues are being addressed now rather than at the game's full launch in May.
The Elden Ring Nightreign network test is only available during specific three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S from February 14 to February 17. Here's the schedule:
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 described the network test as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch." They emphasized that this large-scale Network Stress Test is designed to evaluate various aspects of the online system's functionality and performance, and they are looking forward to players' cooperation to improve Elden Ring Nightreign.
Elden Ring Nightreign is FromSoftware's standalone co-operative spin-off set in a parallel world to that of 2022's Elden Ring. During the network test, three players can team up as Nightfarers to battle new terrors, explore an ever-changing map, and take on increasingly challenging bosses, ultimately aiming to defeat the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must outlast.
Last year, IGN had the chance to visit FromSoftware and go hands-on with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. They were impressed, noting that the game "takes the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring and turbocharges them into propulsive, slash 'n' dash speedruns." For more insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.
Elden Ring Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40 across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. Hopefully, subsequent play sessions during the network test will run more smoothly, allowing players to fully experience and enjoy this anticipated title.
