Elden Ring Network Test Schedules Announced

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test: A Three-Hour Daily Limit

The upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign network test will impose a three-hour daily playtime restriction. This limited access test, running from February 14th to 17th, is exclusively available to Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 players. Applications are currently open.

The news of this time constraint may disappoint some players eager for extensive gameplay. However, the test serves a crucial purpose: preliminary verification of online systems through large-scale network load testing. This is standard procedure before a full game launch.

Following the phenomenal success of Elden Ring in 2022, the announcement of Nightreign was a significant surprise, especially given previous statements about no sequels or further DLC after the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. Revealed at The Game Awards 2024, Nightreign represents a notable departure for FromSoftware. It will prioritize co-op gameplay and incorporate roguelike elements, including randomized encounters.

While built upon Elden Ring's foundation, Nightreign represents a shift in design philosophy. The lack of a release date adds to the anticipation, but the network test strongly suggests a forthcoming announcement regarding its official launch. PC players, while excluded from this test, can expect Nightreign's release on their platform at a later date.

The network test, as stated on the FromSoftware website, is designed to: "examine various technical verifications of online systems by conducting large-scale network load tests." This limited-time, console-exclusive test allows developers to gather valuable data before the full game's release. Despite the short playtime window, participation offers a valuable sneak peek into the upcoming title.