The Duskbloods Closed Network Test Hub
Applications closed — selection August 7, preload August 18, and five August 2026 session windows for The Duskbloods on Nintendo Switch 2.
What the Closed Network Test is
The Duskbloods is an upcoming FromSoftware multiplayer action game for Nintendo Switch 2, directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. Before the planned 2026 release, Nintendo and FromSoftware are hosting a Closed Network Test (CNT) so selected players can trial online PvPvE matches where up to eight Bloodsworn compete for First Blood during the Twilight of Humanity.
This hub is your starting point for CNT preparation. It summarises official milestones, links to detailed subpages, and points toward broader wiki guides on roles, match flow, and helper tools. The test build is separate from the eventual retail game—treat every detail here as subject to change until launch.
Status as of August 4, 2026
Applications closed on July 28, 2026 after a first-come, limited-capacity window that allowed one entry per person. If you applied during July 22–28, you are now awaiting selection results due August 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) via Nintendo Account notice and/or e-mail.
No new registrations are accepted. Selected players receive a download code for the Network Test Version, then preload from August 18, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. EDT ahead of five four-hour session windows on August 21–23, 2026. Read after selection for what to expect on August 7 and preload for redemption and install steps.
Key dates at a glance
| Milestone | Timing |
|---|---|
| Applications | July 22–28, 2026 (closed) |
| Selection notification | August 7, 2026 — 9:00 a.m. EDT |
| Preload available | From August 18, 2026 — 9:00 a.m. EDT |
| Play sessions | August 21–23, 2026 (five four-hour windows) |
Cross-check the how to apply guide for the original flow and post-selection pitfalls. The schedule page lists every session in Pacific Daylight Time plus guidance for other regions, and the requirements page covers Switch 2, Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo Account, 17+ age rules, and region or language matching in one checklist-friendly page.
What selected players can expect
Participants who receive access preload the CNT build after August 18, 2026. From a hub area, you select or customise a Bloodsworn using blood customisation, including role paths such as Destined Rivals and Destined Companion, before queuing into Dusk Battles.
Matches grant rewards after wins or losses, so every session teaches something even when Victory Points do not go your way. Victory Points determine match outcomes, and dynamic events can reshape environments and rewards mid-match—exactly the kind of pressure the full game is built around.
Save data from the CNT will not carry over to the retail 2026 release. Nintendo also expects bug reports and post-session surveys; NDA and streaming limits may apply to capture and public discussion. Read tester duties for the full conduct checklist, survey expectations, and code-sharing rules.
New to roles or objectives? Read Bloodsworn and the Gameplay hub before your first queue so First Blood goals and hub flow feel familiar on day one.
Tools and guides to bookmark
Use the CNT checklist tool before each window to confirm accounts, storage, and connectivity. Convert the five PDT session starts with the session timezone tool so you never miss a slot in local time.
For broader preparation—early build thinking, PvPvE etiquette, and post-CNT strategy—explore the Guides hub once you finish the Network Test pages below.
Pages in this section
- How to apply — application flow, selection follow-up, and common errors
- After selection — August 7 results, download codes, and what to do while waiting
- Preload — redeem your code, install on Switch 2, and verify before sessions
- Schedule — all five four-hour windows with timezone notes
- Requirements — Switch 2, NSO, age 17+, and region/language matching
- Tester duties — bug reports, surveys, NDA limits, and no save transfer to retail
Why the CNT matters before launch
Large-scale online tests let FromSoftware and Nintendo validate matchmaking, eight-player stability on Switch 2, and how hub customisation carries into live battles. Player feedback from August 2026 sessions informs balance and infrastructure ahead of the 2026 launch window without pretending the CNT build is the finished product. The Duskbloods has not fully released—stay tuned to official channels for any schedule adjustments, and use this wiki to organise your personal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers drawn from official Network Test and Creator’s Voice details.
When is The Duskbloods Closed Network Test?
Play sessions run across five four-hour windows from August 21 to August 23, 2026. See the [schedule page](/network-test/schedule/) for exact PDT times and the [requirements page](/network-test/requirements/) for account rules.
Can I still apply for the CNT on August 4, 2026?
No. Applications closed July 28, 2026. Selection results arrive August 7 at 9:00 a.m. EDT—see [after selection](/network-test/after-selection/) for next steps.
Do I need Nintendo Switch Online for the CNT?
Yes. An active Nintendo Switch Online membership, a linked Nintendo Account, Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, and age 17+ confirmation are all required.
When can selected players preload the test?
Preload opens from August 18, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Follow the [preload guide](/network-test/preload/) to redeem your download code and install before session windows.
Will CNT progress carry to the retail game?
No. Save data from the Network Test Version does not transfer to the upcoming 2026 retail release. Expect surveys and bug-report duties if you participate.