Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing substantial server difficulties, hindering many players' participation.

IGN staff participating in the test reported severe server problems, preventing access for the first hour. The issues were so widespread that FromSoftware acknowledged the server congestion and player matchmaking problems via social media, offering an apology and encouraging players to retry later.

The limited availability of the Elden Ring Nightreign network test—five three-hour sessions between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—further compounds the problem. The current schedule is:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Schedule:

• 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," aiming to assess the online system's performance. While preferable to have these issues surface now rather than at the May launch, players who set aside time for the test have expressed understandable frustration. Future sessions are hoped to run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone cooperative spin-off, is set in a parallel world to 2022's 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. A three-day-and-night cycle adds another layer of challenge.

IGN previously previewed an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign, praising its fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay as a departure from the more cautious approach of the original Elden Ring. [Link to IGN's hands-on preview]

[Link to IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki]

Elden Ring Nightreign releases May 30, 2025, priced at $40 for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC (Steam).