Elden Ring Network Test Hit by Server Problems, FromSoftware Apologizes

The first network test for Elden Ring Nightreign is currently underway, but it has been marred by significant server issues, preventing many players from participating. IGN staff members who had access to the test reported being unable to play for the first hour due to these severe server problems.

FromSoftware acknowledged the issue on social media, confirming that server congestion was making it difficult for players to find matches. They apologized for the inconvenience and encouraged players to keep trying to connect after some time.

The problem is compounded by the fact that the Elden Ring Nightreign network test is only available during five three-hour windows on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S, running from February 14 to February 17. Here's the schedule:

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 described the network test as a "preliminary verification test in which the selected testers play a portion of the game prior to the full game launch." They emphasized that this large-scale Network Stress Test is intended to evaluate the online system's functionality and performance, seeking player cooperation to enhance Elden Ring Nightreign.

While it's preferable that Elden Ring Nightreign experiences these server issues during the test rather than at its May launch, players who had set aside time to participate have voiced their frustration. Hopefully, future sessions will be smoother.

Elden Ring Nightreign is FromSoftware's standalone co-operative spin-off set in a parallel world to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three players to team up as Nightfarers to battle new terrors, explore an ever-changing map, defeat challenging bosses, and ultimately confront the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that squads must outlast.

Last year, IGN visited FromSoftware and had a hands-on experience with an early build of Elden Ring Nightreign. They were impressed, noting that the game "takes the cautious dungeon crawls of Elden Ring and turbocharges them into propulsive, slash 'n' dash speedruns."

For more insights, check out IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki on Elden Ring Nightreign.

Elden Ring Nightreign is set to launch on May 30, 2025, priced at $40 across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam.