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

The initial network test for Elden Ring Nightreign—currently underway—has encountered significant server issues, preventing many players from accessing the game. IGN staff reported being unable to play for the first hour due to extreme server problems. FromSoftware acknowledged the server congestion, apologized for the inconvenience, and encouraged 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 as follows:

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 this as a "preliminary verification test" to evaluate the online system. While server problems are preferable now rather than at the May launch, players who allocated time for the test have expressed disappointment. Hopefully, future sessions will run more smoothly.

Elden Ring Nightreign, a standalone co-op spin-off, takes place in a parallel world to 2022's Elden Ring. The network test allows three players to cooperate, battling new enemies, exploring a dynamic map, overcoming increasingly difficult bosses, and ultimately confronting the Nightlord. The test features a three-day-and-night cycle that players must survive.

IGN's hands-on preview described Elden Ring Nightreign as transforming the cautious exploration of Elden Ring into fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay. For more information, read IGN's interview with game director Junya Ishizaki.

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