(Image credit: FromSoftware)
FromSoftware’s game The Duskbloods sparked lively discussions upon its announcement as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive. The excitement stems from this unexpected collaboration, the game’s focus on multiplayer aspects, and the intriguing glimpse of a mysterious rat-like creature at the trailer’s end. We’ve now learned that this winged rat represents the studio’s boldest foray into crafting something decidedly ‘Nintendo-esque’.
Typically known for the intense atmospheres of Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Elden Ring, and Sekiro, FromSoftware isn’t synonymous with ‘cute.’ However, Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mastermind behind The Duskbloods, revealed in a new Creator’s Voice blog that the team indeed aimed for this playful dynamic. “I suppose you could say we tried doing something a little Nintendo-esque in the spirit of the partnership,” Miyazaki quipped. “We tried something cute for a change. Although I will say this character is actually an elderly gentleman.”
Miyazaki doesn’t offer too many details about this elderly rat character, except noting its similarity to the fire keepers from the Dark Souls saga. Residing in the hub area, this quirky character offers “advice and guidance” between the game’s eight-player matchups. Whether or not a dark fantasy flying rat with a touch of age can be considered ‘cute’ is debatable, but it certainly marks a rare, amusing attempt by FromSoft at creating a unique mascot.
The Duskbloods differentiates itself from Dark Souls with influences more akin to Elden Ring Nightreign, boasting “over a dozen characters” with customization options “to a certain extent.” Fans can anticipate a new dimension of multiplayer dynamics in this anticipated title.