Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server difficulties, preventing many players from participating.

IGN staff involved in the test reported severe server issues, rendering the game inaccessible for the first hour. The problems were so extensive that FromSoftware released a social media statement acknowledging the server congestion hindering matchmaking. While the developer apologized, they encouraged players to attempt connecting again later.

The limited availability of the test—five three-hour sessions between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—exacerbates the issue. The schedule is as follows:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Times:

• 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" allowing selected players to experience a portion of the game before its full release. They emphasize the test's purpose is to evaluate the online system's performance and functionality.

Although preferable to encountering these server problems at launch (May 30th, 2025), the current situation has understandably frustrated players who dedicated time to the test. Hopefully, future sessions will proceed more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off from FromSoftware, is set in a world parallel to the original Elden Ring. The network test allows three-player teams to battle "new terrors," explore a dynamic map, overcome increasingly challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. The test also features a three-day-and-night cycle.

IGN previously had hands-on experience with an early build, describing Elden Ring Nightreign as transforming Elden Ring's cautious dungeon crawling into "propulsive, slash ‘n’ dash speedruns." [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 release on May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).