FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki has detailed the reasoning behind making The Duskbloods a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, pointing to Nintendo's collaborative support and strengths in player onboarding as key factors in the decision.
Why FromSoftware Chose Nintendo
Speaking to IGN, Miyazaki explained that initial discussions with Nintendo about the game's concept made a strong impression before business logistics even came into play. Nintendo's forward-thinking reception to the idea provided reassurance for moving forward with development.
Beyond the initial pitch, Miyazaki noted that the partnership plays a crucial role in handling the title's mechanical complexity. The game's rules and systems are described as very unique, making constant feedback, support, and balancing assistance essential.
Addressing Historical Onboarding Hurdles
A major factor in partnering with Nintendo centers on player onboarding. Miyazaki acknowledged that FromSoftware historically has not excelled at instantly conveying how its games work, often dropping players in with minimal guidance.
According to Miyazaki, Nintendo is the right partner to help better convey that complex information in a way that remains understandable to players, suiting Nintendo's core strengths.
A Rare Nintendo Partnership
While FromSoftware is familiar with platform-exclusive releases—having worked with Sony on titles like Demon's Souls and Bloodborne—The Duskbloods marks a significant shift. It is the studio's first day-one release on a Nintendo console in the post-Dark Souls era, and its first Nintendo home console exclusive since Lost Kingdoms 2 launched in 2003.
The Duskbloods incorporates ideas that Miyazaki stated could not fit into previous titles like Dark Souls or Demon's Souls.