Elden Ring: Nightreign Console-Only Testing Announced

FromSoftware's highly anticipated new project, Elden Ring: Nightreign, will offer a test access exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S owners. The registration for this exclusive testing phase will commence on January 10, with the actual testing scheduled for February. This decision means that a substantial number of fans, particularly those on PC, will not have the chance for early access to the game.

Bandai Namco has not disclosed the reasons behind the exclusion of PC from the testing phase. However, those fortunate enough to own the specified consoles will have the privilege of being among the first to experience the new game ahead of its official release.

Elden Ring: Nightreign continues the narrative from the original game, introducing players to new experiences within a darker, more sinister setting. Console gamers are given the unique opportunity to test this project before it becomes available to others, while PC users are encouraged to stay tuned for any future announcements regarding potential testing opportunities.

In a notable change for the series, Elden Ring: Nightreign will not feature the traditional "leave a message" system found in previous FromSoftware titles. Project director Junya Ishizaki elaborated on this decision during an interview, stating that the gaming sessions, which last approximately forty minutes each, do not provide sufficient time for players to engage with the messaging feature.

"We disabled the messaging feature because there isn't enough time for sending or reading messages during sessions, which last approximately forty minutes," Ishizaki explained.