The Next Step in the Evolution of FromSoftware: Nightreign Breaks Away from Traditional Archetypes to Offer a Deeper Experience with PvEvP Mechanics
Players will join forces to battle, cooperate, and compete in fierce skirmishes set in a world where strategy, teamwork, and individual skill play pivotal roles. This concept creates a completely different experience while still maintaining the distinctive “hardcore” essence that is the DNA of the Soulslike genre.
Since its official release, Elden Ring: Nightreign has attracted over 300,000 concurrent players on Steam
This achievement quickly propelled the game into the ranks of the most played titles of 2025, sitting just behind Monster Hunter Wilds and Schedule 1. This is a remarkable result, especially considering the game’s initial reception was met with skepticism prior to its launch, as early reviews suggested that the gameplay might dilute the Soulslike essence that has been a hallmark of FromSoftware for over a decade.
It’s worth noting that this player count does not include statistics from console platforms such as PlayStation or Xbox, which are also home to a strong community of FromSoftware fans. If we consider total numbers, Nightreign could potentially reach significant milestones in player engagement over its first weekend. Despite its early success, Nightreign still has yet to reach the staggering heights achieved by Elden Ring, which recorded 953,426 concurrent players at launch—a figure that left the gaming industry in awe. However, the distinct differences between the two titles are clear: Elden Ring marks a significant evolution in FromSoftware’s offerings, delivering a massive open-world experience, while Nightreign focuses heavily on direct online combat—making it appealing yet more niche, but with longer-lasting potential for community engagement.
Currently, Elden Ring: Nightreign is positioned as a major contender for the top three games of 2025, surpassing notable titles such as Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The upcoming weekend is expected to bring even more exciting updates for Nightreign, particularly as the competitive gaming landscape begins to heat up. With positive feedback on the rise and a growing community, FromSoftware is poised to capitalize on the momentum that Nightreign has generated, potentially evolving it into a new iconic title—not replacing Elden Ring, but serving as a new emblem of innovation and creativity.
