Elden Ring Nightreign’s First Network Test Plagued by Server Issues, FromSoftware Issues Apology

Elden Ring Nightreign's initial network test, currently underway, is experiencing significant server issues, preventing many players from participating. IGN staff reported being unable to access the game for the first hour due to severe server problems. FromSoftware acknowledged the widespread difficulty in finding matches due to server congestion, apologizing and encouraging players to try again later.

The limited availability of the network test—five three-hour sessions between February 14th and 17th on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S—exacerbates the frustration caused by these server issues. The current schedule is:

Elden Ring Nightreign Network Test Session Timings:

• 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" to evaluate the online system's performance. While preferable to encountering these problems at launch (May 30th, 2025), the server issues have understandably frustrated players who set aside time for the test. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone co-op spin-off, takes place in a world parallel to Elden Ring. The network test allows three players to cooperate, battling new enemies, exploring a dynamic map, overcoming challenging bosses, and ultimately confronting the Nightlord. The game features a three-day-and-night cycle.

IGN's hands-on preview described Elden Ring Nightreign as transforming Elden Ring's cautious dungeon crawls into fast-paced, action-oriented speedruns. For more information, see IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

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